Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones)

Good Morning Ladies/Gents hope you all had a nice Evening and may today be even Better.

Good Morning to all the New Comers glad to have you along.

Linda left a message on your page.

About pictures you may want to get with your Sailor, they have the option to send them home which will take 2-4 weeks or have you all pick them up. Now if that is the case their may be long lines. Most often the Sailors will have them sent home. The process now is for them to order and pay for the pictures. So you may want to speak to them on that. it is pretty expensive and some parents reimburse them for what they have spent totally up to you. at this time you may receive a box also with their challenge coins some go ahead and purchase as well. Here is the site to read on prices and all.

Division T-Shirts, Graduation Photos, The Keel, and DVD of PIR

Hope this helps.

Sailors will pick up photos a few days prior to PIR at that time they can be sent home or keep until they see you at PIR or liberty or have you pick them up. That is why it is best to speak to them.

I would like to share this Morning's Daily Bread Verse,

Nehemiah 1:6 – let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear...

This may seem like an unusual Verse but the Bible tells us that prayer is not meant to be limited to our individual needs. God wants us to pray for our family, our neighbors, and our nation. You may find that God is waiting for those who look beyond themselves and are willing to take the time to pray over the conditions around them.

Thank You all for your Great Support here on this site, You all make this site what it is, Much Love and Blessings to you all and your Families and Your Loved One who is taking this Journey. AMEN

PIR: January 5, 2018 TG 09 - 14 Divisions (043-054, 908 and 909)  4 guests

      PIR: January 12, 2018 TG 10 - 7 Divisions (055-060 and 910) 4 guests

      PIR: January 19, 2018 TG 11 - 12 Divisions (061-070, 805 and 911) 4 guests       

      PIR: January 26, 2018 TG 12 - 12 Divisions (071-080, 806 and 912) 4 guests 

      PIR: February 02, 2018 TG 13  - 15 Divisions (081-094 and 913) 4 guests

      PIR: February 09, 2018 TG 14 - 16 Divisions (094-106, 807 & 808, 914 & 915) 3 guests 

There will be no PIR on the 16th and 23rd of Feb. Here is the info for March PIR. it may not be up and running as of yet but when it is please join.

US National Weather Service Chicago Illinois

To those Families attending the PIR this Friday, Please be safe in your travels if driving to and from. Depending on where you live the roads seem pretty bad. May the Lord be with you in your coming and going.

To the SR'S who will becoming a Sailor HOOYAH! Congratulations to you all. What a Journey it may have been, But you made it! All the hard work paid off. May you enjoy the rest of the Journey that comes your way.

What an exciting and Proud  moment for you Mother's/Father's out there. Have an amazing time and take lots of photos and Video, A Moment you will never forget!

Missomd One day at a time, I would ask your Sailor about the challenge coins, more than likely he himself will purchase for his keepsake, You are welcome to decorate the door for Hotel but when you check in let it be known that your Son/Daughter is Graduating PIR the Hotel will decorate, most do. as Far as Pictures your Son/daughter most likely purchased then. the process is for them to purchase them themselves which is a nice gift to you. You have to remember they are getting paid. Never delay making plans, remember no news is good news. and if anything was to happen you will get a call. Don't let it consume you,  You are to have fun with it making plans and all to see your Loved one. If for some reason he didn't pass the first time they get more chances. hope this helps

Missing-

Don't stress yourself out over the small stuff. Concern yourself mainly with getting there for PIR. 

I bought my son a challenge coin. He had already purchased one for himself. He paid for the pictures himself, also. Talk to him about that stuff. 

I didn't but a graduation shirt. You will have the opportunity later (after PIR) to purchase a division shirt, if you want one. I didn't make anything for the hotel door. I didn't but anything for a basket for the meet and greet. I just registered my family, showed up, and made a donation. 

We still had a great time spending the day with our sailor. I know it's overwhelming, but take it one step at a time. I didn't have to worry about flying out there, but I didn't reserve hotel rooms until a week or so before. 

Take a deep breath, then prioritize. Some things are essential, others aren't. I certainly don't say this to take seat from the moms who do all these things. I've just never been that organized! 

Thank You MoMom for that.

I would hate for anyone to over stress yourselves, If you are able to do the whole works then do it if not don't stress about it. I had come to learn my son purchased his div. shirt, Flag shirt, and many a challenge coins. I purchased 2 for my own keepsake, but it is wise to speak to your Son/Daughter on this so that way money isn't spent on what it is they have purchased. At the Meet and Greet you have those that donate baskets and or Money. Sarge just asks for those that are able, but then the baskets are raffled off and yours if you win, of course proceeds go for the food and what not but it isn't a must. Enjoy the time  to sit with your Division and meet the folks whose Son/Daughter was with yours . At the meet and Greet you will have a vendor there to purchase things at PIR the same so you have many a chances to be able to buy even after you get home and want to order you still can. So Folks do take a deep breath relax and go with the Flow, one day at a time!

Missomd there are Hotels that have two rooms or they have sofa sleepers, I myself got a suite with kitchen to keep cost down, I prepared my Son's favorite breakfast so that helped some you just have to figure what will work best for you.

This information is intended for all, and if there is anything that you have concerns with or questions please ask. To me there is never a silly/Dumb question, all questions/concerns comes from the Heart, and deserve to be answered. So no worries. I just want you all to feel comfortable with posting and sharing, everyone can learn something from it. I learn new stuff everyday with some of the questions that are posted and answers. Like the POA my son never spoke to me about any of this, had no clue we could of had these things done beforehand. I guess he figured he knew what he was doing. All I know is that he said mom I Put you down for everything. I don't know what everything is but OK. I guess there is a time and place where they want to be the grown up and figure they know what it is they need to do for themselves, so I don't question it. And even if I did all I get is "mom you cant keep sheltering me, How am I suppose to learn for myself if you keep wanting to do it" I am a Grown Man. Yup that is what he tells me. So I say "ok my Grown Man it is for you to learn then"  So that is where I am today. I know and he knows that  if ever he needs me Momma will be there.

And I agree Paul 100%, but he never sat with me or his father to explain any of this, I am sure if I had known it would have gotten done. I can probably speak with him on this but who is to say he will listen. I have to say going in to the Military he wasn't so closed minded, but when he came home for the Holidays I seen such a big change, it kinda bothered me. He is so strong mined, shows no emotions, really hard. I don't know if this is what they are trained to be or what. But thank You I will write this down and ask. I appreciate you sharing this info.

Paul question for you can this still be done? and it will have to be done on his end correct?

Thank You Paul for that information, Well see Ladies/Gents we learn something everyday, at least I do. So very much appreciated for the posting and sharing. Looks like I have my work cut out for me.

Regarding POA's and wills. Your Sailors should be able to go to Legal and get these done.

When hubby deployed he had a Will made and we did a General POA through legal. It is free. He was AF (retired) reserves.

Before I flew to our sons PIR I was able to go to the base and have a Will made. Again for free...need to make an appointment. 

This was while hubby was on active duty (for you Reservists out there.) I don't think it was possible for me when he was not on active duty...but many things have changed for Reservists over the years. 

Ran into a snafu with the General POA though. We were looking at refinancing our home while hubby was deployed. Our financial institution wouldn't accept the General POA, they wanted a specific one pertaining to finances. Was told it was because it was "too powerful'. Gave me too much freedom I guess. So, hubby had to get a specific POA for finances made while he was in Iraq. Went to legal in Iraq, had it done and mailed it home. 

We also had some pay issues while he was gone. Glad I had the POA's as I was able to talk to someone. They wouldn't have if I had not had the power too. It also helped emotionally...to be able to do something for him. 

I tell the story only to let you know that this kind of stuff can be done.

I would still get a General POA, but I would also check with your loved ones financial institutions and ask what they require. Banks, loans, car loans etc.

Forgot to add that he also did the medical directive as well.

Thank You FTLW, just left him a message and said that I need him to look into this and to please get it done. I hope he understands the importance of this. Thanks again.

Hello everyone.

Just wanted to introduce myself. I am a mom of a son who is currently in Boot Camp.  He is my oldest son. I am feeling very overwhelmed. I know this is a very good step for him but naturally I want to be there to help him.  I am very grateful for Navy for Moms. It is very informative.  Thank you Navy Family. 

Hello Peace and Happiness,

I think most mothers share the same feeling.  My son leaves for boot camp on Sunday so i know all to well how you feel.I am glad i found this site to discuss with other mom's how it this feels.  Hopefully we will be a strength to each other.

Hi Peace and Happiness- We are all right there with you!! My son is currently in boot camp, he left on 12/18 and will graduate on 2/9. I had to do all that I could to stay positive and kept reminding myself what a great opportunity this is for him. My oldest was in the Marines for 9 years and honestly I didn't want to be a military Mom again. After being on this site and other sites for Navy Moms I am thrilled to be back!!  We will all take this ride with you and you will learn so much from the Admins and the other Moms on this page. I'm glad you're here!! Kris :)

Hi Ladies and it is so good to have you all along, We are one big Family here and we do share a lot of the feelings/Emotions/Concerns. My son is in A school but he is on his way of getting stationed elsewhere so I can relate to you all very well indeed. And like Ann said it all so well we are each others strength. And like ReeseMom mentioned we all are here for each other. Amen to that!

Does anyone know how I am to get my son's mailing address when he gets to BC?  Does he need stamps or calling cards? 

The only way of getting his address is thru the form letter. once that is received you will have an address for him to start mailing him letters, in your letters you may put a book of stamps or a calling card, mole skin for blisters. here are a few sites you can read on will give you good info. and welcome Anne.

• Phone Cards and Phone Calls
• Letter Writing & Fun Stuff/Questionnaires to send to your Recruit

Well Ladies and Gents it was a Good day full of information for me and hopefully for you all. I would like to leave with a few scriptures for you all and I wish you all a great evening, Until tomorrow.

1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you

2 Corinthians 5:7   For we walk by faith, not by sight  

Paul and FTLW: Thanks for sharing this important info.

Phoenixmom: Don't let it bother you. (((HUGS))) Our sons/daughters go in one way but we have to remember that they are their own persons. They will definitely change. Some changes we will like and others we may not. Our job is to support, pray, and be there for them. A very wise GrandmaBarB once shared "It's hard to let go of those you've nested most of their lives. They are going to be perfectly fine. Give them unconditional love, pride in their accomplishments and a soft place to fall if one of their wings is injured to help them heal." Easier said than done right? lol So grateful and thankful for the support of these groups. GOD bless you.

Navymom2- I love GrandmaBarB!!!  Very wise woman. I am cutting and pasting her wise words onto my computer and fridge!!! Thank U for sharing!

Good Morning All, hope you had a great evening.

To the New Comers welcome to the site, you will find much needed info, we have a great group of Ladies/Gents who ask great questions and share as well. So please feel welcome to share ant concerns/Questions/Emotions you may have. You will see many may feel the same and is wondering the same. So Again Welcome.

Navymom2 (((HUGS))) to you also and Thank You, I have come to realize what you have mentioned is true. Me and my Son are very close and we have had our talks, But like I mentioned he wants to find himself and learn for himself he feels if I keep doing for him he will not learn for himself which is Great I am for that completely, and he knows I support him 100%. I don't try to throw to much at him, but if I feel it is important he will hear me out. He will be 19 at the end of the month and has grown into a fine young Man, Very Proud of him and his accomplishments and I let him know daily when I say good night to him and we pray together over the phone. I am always so thankful to hear from another Mother and their Knowledge and wiseness . So Thank You!

Have a Great Day Folks!

PIR: January 5, 2018 TG 09 - 14 Divisions (043-054, 908 and 909)  4 guests

      PIR: January 12, 2018 TG 10 - 7 Divisions (055-060 and 910) 4 guests

      PIR: January 19, 2018 TG 11 - 12 Divisions (061-070, 805 and 911) 4 guests       

      PIR: January 26, 2018 TG 12 - 12 Divisions (071-080, 806 and 912) 4 guests 

      PIR: February 02, 2018 TG 13  - 15 Divisions (081-094 and 913) 4 guests

      PIR: February 09, 2018 TG 14 - 16 Divisions (094-106, 807 & 808, 914 & 915) 3 guests 

There will be no PIR on the 16th and 23rd of Feb.

Here is the info for March PIR. it may not be up and running as of yet but when it is please join.

 Ceej0347 - I concur - great words from GrandmaBarB that Navymom2 shared. I copied them out as well to keep handy. Hope all is well with you.

Navymom2 - thanks for sharing!! 

Chipmunk- things have very fiercely busy the last few months with work and home life. My second is now considering a naval route but NROTC, so have been dealing with recruiters and colleges- Ugh, but getting through it.  Looks like my SR’s bc date has moved up as well, this is after is was pushed back yet again.  It’s the whole hurry up and wait routine, (and thankfully we’ve been semi prepared for that thanks to all you ladies and gents reminders) but it’s definately making me and my SR practice our patience. Hope you and your sailor are doing well! 

PS- I did receive your PM and at some point I will answer you, the minute I get to breathe....lol!!

Happy Thursday everyone!!!  It’s a heatwave here in Chicagoland at 30* today with us getting up into the 40*s by the end of this weekend. Time to pull back out the bikini! Lol!

Ceej0347 - Life is busy here as well. I understand!!

Here is Sarge's website. it is a family survival guide has great info in regards to PIR.

www.mynavytaxi.com/goodies.html

GRADUATION DAY PRESENTATION POWERPOINT

CLICK ABOVE

You wil be prompted to download the presentation and you can save it and print it for future viewing.

It also contains the maps and flyer for your sailors free meal.

Once downloaded you open the file and press the space bar on your keyboard to advance each slide

US National Weather Service Chicago Illinois

So just wondering if anyone has received the "I'm a Sailor" call, please share and let us get excited with you. It is a special moment!

For those attending a PIR soon, let it be a special time for you, do not overwhelm yourself with making the plans, let it just flow and have fun with it. I know it can be costly, but completely up to you how you want to go. Some go all out some stay under budget, either way it should be the excitement of seeing your New Sailor and how Beautiful/Handsome they will look.

Wanted to let all know on Sarge's website below it will take you to his Taxi service also, it gives the price and all that comes with it, In case some of you prefer to do that. His taxi shuttle is about the only one who can go on base with no problems, so he will pick up and drop off your Sailor. please take a look if this may be something you would prefer.

Does anyone know or heard Sr if all for div 75 pass or when will we know consider graduation ceremony s next Friday how we know for sure

Well Ladies/Gents it is about that time, I hope you all have a peaceful rest and Evening, It was a pleasure being able to help out once again. Thank You all for sharing and posting and making the New Comers feel right at home or anyone for that matter, I believe we are one big Family and helping each other out and sticking together is what we are here to do!

Those attending PIR tomorrow Be safe in your travels, Have the most Amazing time ever.

CONGRATULATIONS To all the New Sailors! May your New Journey be the best ever! Big (((HUGS))) to you all!

Linda if your SR. is in Div. 075 sometime this week or next you should be receiving The I'm a Sailor call, if for some reason something occurred you would have received a call stating he is set back. Please know if you haven't heard anything as of yet such as PIR has changed then he/she should be set to Graduate on his set time. if you are waiting to make plans because you are unsure please do not, No News is good News, and that is what we basically have to go with.

Q. How can I find out if my recruit is graduating? Will you put a list up on the Web site?
A. Recruits are required to contact their family if their training is disrupted and they will not graduate on time. If you have not heard from your recruit, no news is good news. Unfortunately, because we can have over 1,000 graduating Sailors each week and divisions may be running Battle Stations during the week of graduation; it is not feasible to accurately list every graduating recruit online.

Congrats to all new sailors and their loved ones.  Enjoy and have fun.