Moms of Daughters 2

Good Morning. I just got a quickie 1 call, ship 12 /341 will go to Battle Stations tonight at 8:00. She said they flagged their test 3 and are all so excited about tonight. "Mom, we're almost done!"

Good Luck holding up cavalier mom. We are here tomorrow when you are waiting for that call. I am so excited for you.

Jean- thank you! It seems when we (parents) think we have jumped one hurdle...wait there's more...lol. This is quite the rollercoaster ride :-)

Cavalier Mom and Twinsmom- I am excited for you both as well and can't wait until you get the I'm a sailor call. I still have a few more weeks to go.

Have a great day Ladies! Don't know what I would have done without this group, this website, and you ladies!

We are here for you all. It really is exciting to wait for that call but it is also f frustrating. Keep in mind my call did not come in until late afternoon (pacific time). So you could wait for awhile. They have to clean the ship and then they have there ceremony of getting the cap that says there are a sailor not a recruiter any more. It is pretty cool. When you do get the call remember they have been up for almost 24 hours and have to stay awake until 8:00 that night. Congrats and enjoy! The rollercoaster is almost over.

Thank you ladies - I am so glad I joined this site. I have been an emotional wreck and I am not like this at all! I miss my girls so much and I can feel their emotions in their letters home. I just wish they could get their supplies, they are out of soap and shampoo and I don't know if I should send it to them or wait? They said they lost their NEX visit, I guess their DIV is not pulling it together.

labmom,
I am so happy for you that you got to reconnect with your daughter and had a chance to talk to her recruiter. I hope this adventure for her turns out to be the best thing for her!! Please keep us posted!!!

Twinsmom,
I also have twin daughters in the Navy but fortunately they signed up at different times!! The oldest one actually signed up just recently in an officer program. Her job now is to finish school and then two year of flight training after OCS. You can't send her anything in bootcamp until later when they can have makeup or contacts sent to them for pictures and graduation. Until then loosing NEX privileges are a way of excercising control over the recruits, especially if it affects the whole diviision. Are both of your girls in the same ship and div? We all understand the emotions that go along with sending our girls off. Feel free to express your feelings here - we are safe and we understand!!

Cavalier mom,
Congratulations on the battle stations!! So has the bc experince gone by quickly for you or has it seemed like years since she left?? Will you be going to PIR? I am so happy for you that the end of this phase is almost over for you and her!!! Now get ready for the rest of the ride!!!!

ladypinkhatter,
How right you are about those hurdles!! And we thought raising them through the school years was all we had to worry about!!!!! But you know of all the jobs I've had in the past, I think being a MOM is the absolute greatest one of all!!!

Jean,
How are you today? How is your daughter doing? And your Mom??

Anna - yes both girls are in the same ship and div. They see each other every day. They are doing their first performance Friday 10/8, they are in the "wedge" which for the past 5 years has been held by men. Wish I knew what it was?! By the way it sounds, I think there is a lot of drama going on in their ship or div. They are not ones for the drama crap!

Twinsmom,
I'm afraid I don't recognize what that is either. I think it is so neat that they are together. I remember Catherine telling me about all kinds of drama going on during bc. I guess it's impossible to get away from it completely - it goes wherever you have a bunch of different girls living together!!!! But somehow these divisions end up pulling together in the end!!!!

Cavalier Mom, I will keep your daughter in my prayers for success in Battle Stations. When I went to my G'son's Marine graduation, we had a Meet and Greet the night before Family Day. Many of the DIs came to meet us. We were visiting with my G'son's DI and his comment was that they expected everyone to do fine in the Crucible (the Marine's equivalent of Battle Stations) because by that time they had evaluated everyone. So I completely expect your daughters to do just fine. Still I will keep them in my prayers.

My G'daughter finds drama tiring. It exists everywhere, alas. The challenge is to rise above it.

Maybe all of you can give me some suggestions/feedback. I received two letters from my daughter. Of course, she "wants to come home....doesn't believe she military material....talks about how stressed out she is and how it is affecting her tests....etc" (practically the same thing she was saying during her phone call). Says the only reason she is still there is because I am proud of her but keeps asking me for permission to come home.

Is this normal for girls? Because the male recruits in my PIR are not leaving their moms messages like this. Is this something that you think will pass or should I be concerned? How should I respond to these letters? Now I am getting worried and stressed wondering if she is trying to get kicked out? Help!

LadyPink, Keep encouraging your daughter. You do not want to give her permission to come home because she will live with this forever. BC is a shock for some young people, especially if they have lived a somewhat sheltered life. Remember is close quarters, up close and personal, our sailors are learning the facts of life. Not only are there are physical challenges but there are also mental challenges. Also, remember they vent at us and then the moment passes. We are still worrying about it when they have moved on. There many valuable life lessons that can be learned, some of them a bit difficult but still good lessons.

ladypink - from a daughters point of view, DO NOT LET HER COME HOME. support her. encourage her. push her through this. she will regret it later if you let her quit. she will miss out on something absolutely amazing. if she wasn't cut out for it..she wouldnt have made it this far. "be strong now because things will get better, it may be storming now but it can't rain forever" my favorite quote.

ladypinkhatter,
I'm sorry your daughter is doubting her ability to go through with her plans. Do you know what her reasons were for wanting to join? Was it a job in particular she wanted to have, or another goal that she wanted to work for? The reason I ask is because in your supportive, encouraging letters maybe you can remind her of what she wanted to gain from all this. Tell her bc doesn't last forever and if she can tough it out things will be much better in the fleet. BC is meant to break down the individual and build the team. If she can stick it out until she finishes bc and the first month or so of A school she can then see a whole new picture of the Navy!! Plus she will have the opportunity to talk to you more often, and have some fun time. Right now there is none of that!!!

Thank YOU! Everyone, I'm so excited! I guess Battle Stations is ON this very minute. I won't sleep at all tonight. She is so gung ho about it, and just thinks everything they do is so much FUN! She loved the firefighting. The first half of bootcamp was really a roller coaster for her. She was very doubtful too. Then the second half started getting fun when she realized all the yelling is just other people doing THEIR jobs. They are supposed to make them feel inferior. But she said "I'm a woman! I can handle it. I CAN do it myself, thank you very much." It's been her life motto. It works. When new recruits REALLY accept that all the negativity is not personal, but their job... That's their turning point and things start to be a fun. They joined for this challenge. Remind them of that, and to make the most of it. My daughter's light bulb went off and her whole attitude towards bootcamp changed back for the best! She says she loved getting to do everything. Where else could she get to do all this, if not the military, the NAVY!!! Yeah, its work but it's HER work. Atta Girl! I hope to see proud moms and dads in GL next week with big happy smiles that will be remembered for a lifetime! We found flying into Milwaukee and staying closer to base was much more affordable for us. We're booked and confirmed! WooHoo! Congratulations to all. and Newer recruits... Hang in, it will get better! Thanks, and hugs to all.

Anna- I believe her reason for going into the Navy was to fulfill her desire to be a missionary, a pastor and opportunity to travel. It seems like the older she gets the more she doubts her abilities and I was hoping that this experience would build her confidence in that area but it is breaking my heart because I am not hearing that from her. If anything, it has gotten worse since she's been in bc.

Nicole and DC- thank you for your feedback (especially from "a daughters point of view"). I thought she knew me better than that because I would NEVER tell her to quit nor come home no matter how hard it is on me and believe me to hear her "beat up" on herself and her abilities is heartbreaking. She should know by now that I am not that kind of mom.

I am hoping and praying that when she starts getting letters from family and friends she'll push her way through it and start being the best she can be....she has the love and support of her family. I don't understand right now.

*no matter how hard it is on me or her....

ladypinkhatter,
I know this really hurts as a mom to have our child hurting and we are powerless. If she is truly not going to cut it as a sailor, the RDCs and instructors will most likely notice and talk to her. I have heard from other moms who's sailors just didn't cut it and were sent home. I'm praying that doesn't happen to your daughter but be assured if there really is a problem there are people there who will spot it. Maybe she is just venting to you because there is no one she can say these things to there. Tell her friends and family she really needs encouraging letters and we need to pray for her confidence in herself!!! And for some comfort for Mom as well!!!!

Cavalier Mom,
How exciting!!! I am so happy for you and your "soon to be a new SAILOR"!!!!!
Have a very safe trip to PIR and enjoy every minute. Don't forget tissues, cameras, camera batteries, her cell phone and charger so she can get in touch with friends, and comfy clothes that she can lounge in while in your hotel room. Also her favorite soap, shampoo if you can - she will probably want to take a LONG, HOT, PRIVATE shower!!!!!
And then come back here and tell us all about it!!!!!!

Good morning everyone. Honestly, I really feel embarrassed about my rant/reaction to my recruit's reaction. I am mostly embarrassed because I trust God and have way more faith in God than I displayed.

Anna- Thanks. I will continue to pray (the best thing that I can do for her), and encourage her and remind her that she joined to serve God and her country in whatever capacity she believes God is leading her too. I will continue to pray for her confidence.

Blondie- Thank you. I will try to be mindful of Jeremiah 29:11 for her and remember that no matter what happens, I need to support her and trust God.

DC- I guess bc is a shock for me too as well. Thank you for letting me vent.

Nicole- it meant a lot to me to hear a point of view from a daughter. I just wanted you to know that.

Thanks everyone and have a great day with me (I am now climbing down off of my "pity pot" and putting the "M" (for mom) back on my chest!)....LOL

ladypinkhatter,
I got a chuckle from your last comment about putting the "M" back on!! Please don't ever feel embarrassed about needing to get something off your chest!! We all feel that sometimes and this is the best place to vent!!!! Ladies here have helped me many times before and it feels good to blow off steam!!!

Hope everyone has a great day today!!!!

Blondie,
LOL you and I were typing at the same time and saying the same things. What's that about like minds - - - scary isn't it!!! ha ha

Hi everyone.
I am home today. The doctor thought it was wise since I am running a 102.8 fever. She has not been able to find out why. I was at the doctors for 4 hours yesterday. She sent me home with antibiotics and said she would get hold of me if something turns up. While the meds are working today. I feel much better today.

Hi all, You may be interested in this site to honor your sailors. Enjoy.

COPIED TEXT: In honor of all of the brave men and women in uniform, Grantham University would like to offer every service member a FREE Blue Star Flag that your family can display to pay tribute to your hard work, dedication, and service to our country.

http://www.mybluestarflag.com/

Jean,
You need to get some rest and take it easy. I'm sure all the added stress you are dealing with is taking it's toll on you as well as whatever bug is giving you the fever.

My daughter is going back on Sunday night. I am feeling better they yesterday. YEAH. I already told my daughter to pass on to my mom that I love her and miss her but will not be there until I am cleared by the doctor. Thanks Anna and Blondie. I am home resting and that is where I am staying today. I slept last night for over 14 hours. I guess I really needed it.

I love though. It is so inspiring.

Blondie I think you might be right. Need to let the new meds the doctor gave me to start working.

I like that one. LOL. I feel like that all the time. I am going to copy that and put it up at work. Thanks.

Blondie- Thank you. You know I will print them out. You find the best graphics.

Jean- I hope you feel better soon!

Ladypinkhatter, all of us need to vent at some time or another. Do not worry about it. It is hard to know your loved one is hurting and there is absolutely little you can do about it.

When my g'daughter wrote one of her first letters home, she commented, "I don't like this very much." By the end, she was going with the flow. She also was one that liked fire fighting and she also thought the gas chamber was an interesting experience. She took her mask off early because she thought they had said to remove them. But her petty officer had told them how to breathe and she did fine. The RDCs were worried about her and made sure to check her out.

These roller coasters will continue. Usually, your sailor will vent, you will be supportive but be all stressed inside. You continue to stew and your sailor moves on.

Recently my sailor was in port but pulling duty so we chatted via e-mail. She was all steamed up about something but in subsequent e-mails the tone had calmed down considerably. Then when she did get liberty ashore, she found the conditions of women, children and animals deplorable. We chatted on Skype and the first night the whole conversation was about the injustice of it all. This is still eating at her because I have had two more e-mails about it.

But, Ladypinkhatter, if your daughter ends up leaving the Navy because she and her RDCs decide that is the best course of action, let her know that you are still proud of her.

Jean, many prayers for a speedy recovery. Rest is the best thing to heal a body.

Does anyone know what an RCPO is?

RCPO - recruit chief petty officer

If your daughter has that position, the RDCs think well of her. It is a tough job but shows leadership.

DC- Seriously? She said she would tell me more about it later. I really hope she decides to "stick it out". Thanks.

Hi Joanne,
Missed you - have you been keeping yourself busy? How''s your sailor girl?

Got my, I'm a Sailor call yesterday! It's been a long 2 months, now PIR is almost here! THanks for MOM's of Daughters for all the encouragement!

thanks!

Congratulations Charlee! I too am loooking forward to the "I'm a Sailor" call. Enjoy! Good morning everyone...have a great relaxing weekend!

ladypinkhatter- what's your PIR date?

Congratulations Charlee on your new sailor!!! Looks like you and Cavalier mom are going to PIR together!?!! Will you two be able to meet up?

Ladypinkhatter,
Your time is coming!!!!!! And I meant to tell you - if your daughter is an RPOC she must be doing well or they wouldn't give her a position of leadership. She may just be feeling a little more stressed because she does have some extra responsibilities. We are all hanging in there with you and her!!!!

Labmom,
Yes, I think once PIR was over and we got to take our sailor out for her 1st non-bc meal (McDonald's!!) I finally let out a hugh sigh of relief!!!!!
You will be there soon also!!!

Everyone have a wonderful weekend!!!!!!

Charlee- PIR date is 11/12/10

Anna- thank you. Yes, she did tell me that but didn't tell me anything more and of course I started asking around. It's good to hear...still up to her...and I will support and encourage her no matter what. I have great support HERE and from family. I'm feeling very, very blessed!

Labmom- isn't your PIR 11/12/10 also? If so, what Div.?

LabMom- ohh, she just left last week; well, we are here for you and are waiting with you :-)

Cat 1,
lol - that is a cute funny story!! When I went to my daughter's PIR I kept searching for her during the ceremony and couldn't find her. Like you I was watching (and even took a few pictures) of a recruit I thought was her!!! Turns out she was way in the back and I never did see her - but she saw us and was watching me watch everyone else BUT her!!!!!

DanandCarleysmom,
Welcome - I'll be sending you a personal message but wanted to say hello here as well. We are here for you!!! Have you received the kid in the box yet, or the form letter. You have been through this before as well which makes it a little easier - but just a little!!!! What does your son do and where is he stationed?

labmom,
Have you contacted her recruiter to get her address? He should be able to go to the RTC website and get the address of any recruit he sends in.

Good morning ladies. I finally met another mother on this website over the weekend who has a daughter in my recruits division. I also told her about this website and hopefully we will hear from her soon.

Cat1, Blondie, Anna- LOL! That is funny!

DanandCarly'sMom- Welcome.

Have a great day!

Good Morning to Everyone.
We got my daughter back on the plane to go back to her ship yesterday.That was hard to do, knowing that we will not see her again for probably one year. She is not coming home for Christmas because she used her leave to see her grandmother. So I told her that I would come down and either do the Tiger crews with them when they come back from deployment or I would meet here in San Diego. She seemed to like that.

I decided that I was not going to go that long with out seeing her. That is why I am going to try and save money to go down when her ship comes in. I will miss her but it is life. She needs to move on with hers and I with mine. I can't skype her. The ship won't let them use it at least when they are under way and in a foreign port. So I will not be able to hear from her until she gets back other then E-mail. Thats for the prayers. I think that is the only way I am at work today. I don't know for how long but I am here. I still don't feel 100% but I feel like I am getting there. I e-mailed my doctor to let her know what was going on. I still am running a low fever of 100.2 in the evening and about 99 in the day. So I don't know what she will do for that. They don't really think of a fever at 99, so She will probably just blow it off. LOL. Love the picture I am going to copy and paste it and send it to my daughter.

That is the only way to not worry about yourself is to pray for others. No the doctor never really did find out what is causing this fever. She just put me on antibiotic and left it at that. The blood work came back with it being a bacterial infection but she was not sure what it was. I think she thinks I picked it up in the ICU unit when I was there with my mom.

Thanks. She got to do what she wanted to do. She saw her grandmother and some friends. She was hoping to reconnect with her old boyfriend but he is still licking his sores. But he did not want to see her. She was a little sad about that but what can you do. He didn't like what she was doing and this is what she was going to do all her life. She wasn't going to let a guy get in her way.

Have a nice nap. I wish I could do that myself.

Sorry about the migraine. They really do suck. I hate getting them in the night, it means I will have a pain in the head the next day. LOL. No really I hate getting them and so I am really sorry that you got one. I will pray that it is gone and stays gone.for ya.

I'll keep praying that you Will make it through.