Good Morning Ladies.. Had a chance to catch up on N4M. I am shocked to read about the Thanksgiving Dinner and the stocking gift bags. You would think that they would be setup for a large group. I wonder who all did get dinner? I haven't hear from my son yet so I don't know if he received a gift or dinner. Hope to hear from him soon I'm feeling a bit sad. Our family also missed him being with us but we are counting down the days for Homecoming! Please tell your sailor how much I appreciated their service in keeping our country safe.
sheis22 Ship 02 Div. 932 : I also got an email from my son who is being overworked as they have let some people go or transferred them from his division - they were overworked before and now have fewer people to handle the job. He is getting discouraged as the time is going slowly and it seems his superior comes down pretty hard on them. I told him to think of when his deployment if over and how it will be different, but I think he is a little "worn down". He also did not get a Thanksgiving dinner, but fortunately had his Thanksgiving care package from me to eat! It is hard to hear some of these things, but these are some excellent coping skills which will serve our kids well in the future! If they can deal with the difficulty of deployment, then they will be able to deal with many rough hands life may deal them. The Navy is terrific, and despite our kids' hardships, I have to keep this in mind. Just say some prayers for our kids to keep up their strength and stay safe!!!
My son emailed me that the line for turkey was two and half hours so he just had fried chicken and fries. Also he already got my Christmas care package that I had to mail my late November to have any chance to get there by Christmas. Of course, THAT's the package that gets there super fast LOL. Oh well, I'll just have to send another one.
First off, THE MILITARY DOES NOT RUN OUT OF FOOD ON DEPLOYMENT. They may run short of fresh veggies or fruits, fresh milk between resupply or other fresh things....but they NEVER RUN out of food. If they were stuck in the middle of a desert, there would be food available. MRE's or some such.
While a Rockwell feast of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy would be nice, there are 5000 people on that ship, all working different shifts, with different duties. Some may not get dinner break at exactly the right time, or may find their dinner time at 2 in the morning. What our sailors are doing is WARFARE.....protecting not only our nation, but helping to preserve peace, avoid attacks, assist when they can, resupply our military actually in harms way on the sands of Afghanistan...and heaven knows where else. This isn't a cruise....this isn't "fun:"...,it is dead serious business.
Of course they work, hard, long-long hours. Sometimes they may not sleep for two days....or get a rest break. The military isn't unionized. They are there for ONE reason only...to get the job done, whatever it is. Hundreds of people depend upon what they do...right there. A sailor doesn't die from long hours or no sleep. ...and the JOB must be done no matter what.
Injuries happen....in any job....anywhere. The Military has some of the best medical treatment in the world. They are not going to ignore injuries, or not treat them. When necessary, a sailor might be put on light duty or no duty for a day or two...but they are not going to have days of bedrest...not going to happen. If they are that sick, they will be evacuated to a land-based military facility.
Packages will arrive....when they arrive. Tons of mail and boxes are sent out every day---to everywhere. In a warzone, deliveries aren't based on a time schedule......they are based on opportunity and equipment.
People will leave, through discharge or transfer or whatever. The military all over has had to make serious decisions thanks to the screwball sequester delivered by Congress. Budget cuts in Defense is a reality...again...thanks to you=know=who. Instead of being mad at the Captain or the Navy...write a letter or an email or make a phone call and put your outrage where it belongs.....smack in the lap of your Representatives in Congress.
Our sailors are not in college. They are not there for the travel experience (even though that's a plus for many). They are there to work....sometimes long hours...sometimes when your hungry...sometimes when all you can do is collapse in your rack and hope for a couple hours sleep.
They don't need to hear anger from us. They don't need "outrage"....they need support and encouragement, not pity.
Frankly, we are lucky they are on a carrier instead of facing down IED's in the Middle East on sand....or standing off North Korean troops at the border....or manning the walls of Guantanamo Bay.
We all miss our sailors...terribly...and wish they were close, wish they were home for the holidays...but they are not. They are doing what they signed up to do.....serve their country.....
Respectfully, this is a blog for us mom's to cry our hearts out as we feel our sailor's pain, back in the day... we would NOT have heard their complaints about long lines for chow etc... thanks to e-mail, FB and other social media sites, we now feel their pain almost immediately... it helps us to vent. No harm in venting.. Thank goodness these sailor's have wonderful supportive mother's and Grandmother's, and family who care, and we ALL support our sailors growth.. The pain they are feeling is growth. "Character is best formed in the stormy billows of the world." Johan Wolfgang Von Goethe... Someone posted this quote on FB the other day...seemed fitting to me... as I dealt with my son's whining.. on Thanksgiving.
GrandmaBarB, you are absolutely right, but I think Gaisey is right, too - we, as mothers, are just venting! I certainly mean no disrespect at all - I just miss my son and feel for him, but I know it is also a character-building experience.And - these boys are defending our country and our freedom - and we are lucky that they are on a carrier - but it is hard to turn the "mom-button" off!!
Quote from my son this morning... "Have you ever felt like you where meant to do something more with your life? Like for me I feel like im destined to do something important or I guess more profound than im doing now. something that I can be proud of for the rest of my life. I just haven't been able to figure it out yet. But hopefully I do soon enough. Random but I felt like saying it haha."
My response was for him to look for his pathway... bla bla bla... My son was a youth pastor at home, was in Bible college, but became disillusioned with the institution of religion. He chose not to take the path of religious petty officer as he wanted to be a "regular" guy. He loves the hard work in hazmat, he says it gives him time to think... I am happy he has the time to "think" about his pathway to do something "BIG."
Reality check well taken GrandmaB and I agree with Gaisey. I guess I get caught up with all the comments that you start feeling for these moms and forget for a minute that it is Warfare and they are there to do their job.I just got an email from my son he did go to dinner he spend the time in he rack watching a few movies and a well deserved break. He said that for the last 21/2 weeks it has been very hectic and they have been jumping through hoop to get their jobs done. I am relieved now and will focus on me getting through surgery tomorrow.I think some of us need a big (((Hug)))). Have a good evening
Paula I agreed with you. But as creeder1 but it we as moms just need to vent sometimes and this gives us the place to do that. I alway encourage my son with email and cards. And any other sailor that i can. GrandmaBarB you are right that is a big ship with a lot of people doing different jobs at different times. I know they didn't run out of food. There was food to eat. But if they are going to do a big meal with all the fixing there should be enough for everyone. And as far as the Christmas goodie bags i thought everyone was going to get one. My son wasn't mad because he didn't get the big meal he was thankful he got to eat and talk to everyone at home. And he said it was ok he didn't get a bag and some got more than one because some of the sailors never get any mail or cards from home i though how sad. So I pray that we can lift up our sailors and pray for them and their family's Have a great day.
Jbr, good luck on your surgery, will be praying for a quick recovery. Yep right there with Gaisey, can we send you a care package? Like the cake in a jar idea..
The thing that upsets me about the goodie bags is this, there are about 7 thousand plus bags going to the Truman, we all worked hard, got donations, spent our own money so that each and every sailor on that ship would get something, I also sent all the extra stuff collected, as well as most others did. So when I hear that some are not getting one, because they were doing their job while they were received , and didn't get one. Yeah it upsets me. Whoever is in charge of that group, know what shift everyone works, so they should make sure they get theirs, or give them the opera unity to give their bag to someone who does not get anything. And I feel I have the right to voice my opinion, that is why we are here. Will my Sailor ever hear me being upset, NO. Bit we worked hard for our Sailors and Marines, they deserve to get what we sent them. As for the Thanksgiving meal, yeah it is sad when they don't all get turkey if that is what they wanted. My Daughter Told me she was thankful for getting a Bananna, she loves her fresh fruit. Was she disappointed to not have gotten any Turkey, yes. But she says this is life on a carrier, she was happy to have her bananna. I always tell her how proud I am of her, as I know we all do. Wll I ever let her know I was sad for her? NEVER. She knew what she signed up for, I knew what she signed up for. But as Mothers, wives ect. We have the right to voice our feeling to each other. That is why we are here.
My daughters husband wanted her to get pregnant, she told him Not Now, I was trained to do a job, the Navey spent a lot of money on my clearance, and training, I am going to do my job! I am very proud of her. I understand how things are. Her husband was in the Army, and has shrap metal in his brain from an IED. We all get it, we have the Freedom to speak what we feel, because of our AWESOME Military . And the comfort that everyone here understands how we feel.
GrandmaBBar, I Love You and Respect You, and Thank You for your service. And you have the right to speak your mind also. I am blessed to have all of you here for me and I thank you all for your understanding, and sometimes my ranting. God Bless You All, God Bless All our Sailors and Marines.
I received another email from a Sailor thankful for the Christmas package! I am learning so much on being a Navy Mom here. I really appreciate You All: (Y'all in Texas) is how we say it though! Gaisey...I am experiencing the same feelings of change and trying to figure out what is my next step. I'm starting training in a new career. I always put my son first. I feel good he's doing well and he and my husband are supportive of me going to school!
Thanks everyone for all of the support. I know what my daughter signed up for & so does she. Yes she knows it is tough & will see it through, but we do need to voice what they tell us to get advise, which is what I am asking for. I will keep on encouraging her to STAY STRONG as I am & this too shall pass. My eldest son is a 12 year veteran and is the one who inspired her to serve her country & I am glad he did. She is my only baby girl & I just feel for her. Has anyone ever been on the Tiger Cruise?
Suzann....thanks for your words. My intent wasn't to "get my head handed to me"...but to remind the Moms and all what our sailors are doing. They belong totally and 100% to the Navy. While we all wish our darlings were being cared for, like we care for them....the fact is they are not. They are adults in a War....and what their whims might be hold no water.
With the right grace, they will all return, whole, in one piece, with no injuries, with their heads in tact, with both feet, both arms and no PTSD. Meanwhile, it's unrealistic to expect that it's "just like home'. Having served in the Marines....and having 4 of 6 brothers served (2 didn't come home), a career Army Father, all Uncles served...a neice and 2 nephews crawling around in the sand somewhere in Afghanistan.....I KNOW what is going on.. Our sailors focus is 100% on their jobs....it has to be.....
I know it's upsetting to some that their kids are half way around the world and pretty much out of touch...I get it.....but, leave them alone. They must do their jobs...and sometimes it's not comfortable...sometimes you don't get a sit-down hot meal, sometimes you don't get any sleep....that isn't the mission.
Best to your sailor. Hawaii sounds great. My son has lived on Maui for 15 years andl oves it there. He'll never come back to the family fold, for sure...ha. I'm visiting him this month. Leaving next week and not coming back until New Years.
pschip...thanks, gal. I look forward to seeing that little devil (He's my "baby"...just turned 50 and I haven'[t seen him since MAY 2012.---and that's too darned long.
He usually comes home twice a year for a long visit but wasn't around last Christmas...and no spring trip this year. I ACHE to hug him til his head pops off. I intend to spend HOURS looking at him...ha. He surprised me with the airline ticket a couple months ago.....so will be there for my birthday (21st) and Christmas...which is wonderful. He and I are going to spend 6 days on the Big Island..just the two of us before we head to Maui. Then I'll stay with him and his wonderful wife. (he finally married....at age 45...ha). I'm so excited I can barely sleep. He is such a wonderful man...I did a really good job on that kid, for sure...
GrandmaBarB -Have a great trip!! You deserve some R&R!! No better place than the Big Island to stare at your son for hours and hours and give him lots of xoxoxox from us too!!! Enjoy!
Good Morning everyone.
GrandmaB Bar, Have fun in Hawaii! I know how excited you are to see your son! Enjoy every minute, and enjoy Hawaii! I hear Dec. is the best time to go. So Happy for You!
Coach Shelia, how awesome that you are going back to school! What courses are you taking?
nschn, Southern California here, sorry not close.
Have a good day all, God Bless our Sailors, and all of you. We may not all agree all the time, but You are all a group of Amazing women! I am thankful to have you all her for your support and wisdom!
Catsmom...thanks for your "bon voyage" greetings. I've never been crazy about Hawaii...until my son moved there. He has shown me the REAL Hawaii as opposed to the TOURIST Hawaii....and it's wonderful. I prefer the Caribbean....,300 islands to chose from...and only a couple hours away...ha. But, I'd travel anywhere to see my son...... December is perfect. Lower humidity, milder temps. AND, whale migration season. We intend to do a lot of whale watching....ha. I'm very excited to spend some time with him alone on the Big Island.... I have never spent any time there and am looking forward to crawling all over volcanoes and lava....ha.....
GAISEY Thanks for your kind words. Really looking forward to seeing him again. So excited I can barely sleep. It seems like forever since I've hugged that big lug of a man......,ha...,,,,
GrandmaBarB Give him a big hug from all of us and tell him thanks for all that he does. so when do you leave i will kept you in my prayers for safe travel and have a great time
I am so happy for you!!! FYI -my son wrote this morning and he said, he got a goodie bag, but you had to go to the hanger to get one, he said he didn't go because he get's so much stuff from his amazing mom, but someone brought him one .... He went on to say tell the mom's thanks it was amazing, everyone loved the bags and are very thankful!! He also said, the mail that supposedly dropped into the sea was probably a rumor.. All in all he sounds great!! I wish I could hug and kiss him in Waikaloa this Christmas! We spent a week there when he was 10... Wonderful memories..of swimming with the dolphins..
GrandmaBarb- safe travels and have fun! What a Blessing for you! You bring joy to my heart everytime I think of your grandson. My Mama had a tremendous bond with my Sailor Son and I know she is his Guardian Angel! Catsmom-I'm studying medical coding! My niece is a coder and loves it! She was excited when I told her I was starting! She is more like my sister! Ladies...even though we haven't met I look forward to when our Sailors come home and we celebrate! Yippee! My heart is swelling just thinking about the excitement in the air that day!
pschip...and all. Thanks for your kind words. I'm so excited to see him again.... Seems like forever.
I leave home on Tuesday next week. Will overnight at a hotel near JFK airport and leave on Wednesday. Flying Hawaiian Airlines, nonstop to Honolulu and will take a bug hopper to Hilo. Will arrive there about 5pm....weary, no doubt...and hungry. Will report when I return on the 27th or 28th...
Meanwhile Happy holidays to all...Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwanza and whatever you celebrate. I hope you all get exactly what you wish for tucked in your stocking, dreidel or basket.....
Safe Flit GrandmaBBar, take some snacks with you, keep the hunger at bay! Will get my Christmas wish when The Truman comes home, and I can Hug my girl!...LOL.
Coach Shelia, that is awesome, a friend of mine does that, she started her own company, and the Dr.'s she had went with her. Good Luck can't wait to meet everyone also!
Meeting friends for dinner tonight, Taco Tuesday..Yumm
/Thanks, Catsmom. I usually take gumdrops...which I love. Believe it or not, Hawaiian serves FOOD on their Honolulu nonstop. 2 meals and 2 snacks...and looks like LOTS of fresh fruit...which is fine with me. I LOVE to fly and enjoy every minute of it. I always arrive hungry, no matter what. Usually want hot carbs or a huge hot fudge sundae..... It's all in my head, no doubt.......
GarandmaBarB, I am with you there, hot fudge Sunday sounds good to me..LOL
That is good that they serve meals on the plane, and Fresh Fruit, my kind of airline..I think that is where my girl gets her wanting fresh fruit from..That or that is almost all I ate when I was pregnant with her...LOL
Suzann- I just got my 2 ornaments last week in mail-one for me and one for my daughter (my sailor's big sis) to put on our trees. Last year my daughter made me cry Christmas Eve. She presented me with a little sailor ornament in his dress blues and that set me off thinking about my son and missing him for Christmas. I will have 3 this year on my tree in remembrance of my son who will not be home again for Christmas-his 2010 ornament from Truman's last deployment, this year's and the little sailor. (Don't have my tree up yet.) Does anyone know what co. to contact about their pictures and to get a yearbook from this cruise? I bought pictures last time but no yearbook and would like to get both to give to my son from this time and possibly see if I can get last deployment's book too. My son probably didn't even go to get his pict taken this time if I know him as last time he went but thought it was stupid. He refused to spend his money on picts but I did and have a picture of him framed on the wall in his Dress Blues. Someday I think he will appreciate it. My dad served in the Korean Was on the Mighty Mo--he manned the radar on the ship actually--and I would love for him to get out his yearbook and show me picts and talk about the Navy. He too was stationed in Norfolk, Va. like my son. As far as where to get the ornament contact FROG and they will tell you. They have a website to order from which I did. I will have to look it up and get back to you on that...
Suzann--You may want to join the FRG Mailing List: "Join our email list by emailing hstfrg_commliaison@hstruman.net. Please have your sailor email from their CVN-75 address, and include your name, email address, sailors name, rank/rate, department, and division. Make sure to add our email to your contact list to avoid having our messages arrive in your junk or spam mail folder." FRG fundraising email is: hstfrg fund@hstruman.net Look on here for items you can purchase (like your ornaments).
NSchn - Nancy, my son just got orders for Norfolk and is assigned to the HST. We are from Michigan (Jackson) and he will be leaving on Saturday for Norfolk.
Suzann - I sent the inquiry this morning to my son. He loves hazmat says it is better than being a grape, which is where he started out on the Truman. My son loves hard physical work! When he was 16 he spent a summer in Dallas with his BFF and worked as a hod carrier (basically a laborer that does cement work), he learned how to work hard and quickly that summer, he also experienced living with a family of nomads.. great experience for him.. He would call and say we get candy bars for breakfast and McD for lunch everyday. I would cringe at the food and the fact that he learned to shoot that summer. I am not a deeply religious person, but I trusted in God that summer that he was safe and learning about the world...outside of our cozy lifestyle here in N. Cal. My son says his soul belongs in the south.., we shall see where he ends up! I pray for Hawaii!!!
GrandmaBarb have a wonderful time with your son and enjoy all the sight seeing, but I already know that you will. It is on my bucket list to visit the west coast and Hawaii.
My daughter got her birthday and christmas packages that I sent her. She loved her birthday cake in a jar and all the other goodies that I sent her. Her friends that she shared with said that I outdid myself with all the homemade things that I sent her. My sister's 5th grade class send her birthday & christmas cards for her and to pass out to others. She said that she read them and cried cause they were so cute and thoughtful. She asked me if I read them& cried before I sent them but she already knew the answer to that...I did.
Hey everyone, I do not get on here often. Good to see everyone is staying strong for our sailors. We mailed a couple of Christmas packages to him....most likely he will have plenty to share. : )
Our son's 1st and only child will be turning one on the 20th. We are super busy planning a party for him. We're going to have 'dog tags' and a special note about our sailor on the loot bags for the children. Just trying to find ways to keep him and the fleet in prayers and thoughts of others.
Hi all, I usually just sit and read all your wonderful posts; I make comments occasionally. But today I need some expert, experienced advise. My son asked for a camera with very specific criteria and I finally got it today. I need to know the best way to pack it for him (It uses AA batteries so there is no lithium issue). Any suggestions and/or advise?
LindaD, I would wrap it in a thick layer of bubble wrap, and pack the box with bubble wrap. They get dropped onto the flight deck. So you want it tight so it doesn't move around in the box. Maybe some styrofoam around it too. Anything to absorb the shock.
Have a good day everyone . Early day at work for me. Hoping to hear from my girl!
jbr0001-USS Harry Truman-VAQ 130
Good Morning Ladies.. Had a chance to catch up on N4M. I am shocked to read about the Thanksgiving Dinner and the stocking gift bags. You would think that they would be setup for a large group. I wonder who all did get dinner? I haven't hear from my son yet so I don't know if he received a gift or dinner. Hope to hear from him soon I'm feeling a bit sad. Our family also missed him being with us but we are counting down the days for Homecoming! Please tell your sailor how much I appreciated their service in keeping our country safe.
Dec 1, 2013
creeder1
sheis22 Ship 02 Div. 932 : I also got an email from my son who is being overworked as they have let some people go or transferred them from his division - they were overworked before and now have fewer people to handle the job. He is getting discouraged as the time is going slowly and it seems his superior comes down pretty hard on them. I told him to think of when his deployment if over and how it will be different, but I think he is a little "worn down". He also did not get a Thanksgiving dinner, but fortunately had his Thanksgiving care package from me to eat! It is hard to hear some of these things, but these are some excellent coping skills which will serve our kids well in the future! If they can deal with the difficulty of deployment, then they will be able to deal with many rough hands life may deal them. The Navy is terrific, and despite our kids' hardships, I have to keep this in mind. Just say some prayers for our kids to keep up their strength and stay safe!!!
Dec 1, 2013
JodyT
My son emailed me that the line for turkey was two and half hours so he just had fried chicken and fries. Also he already got my Christmas care package that I had to mail my late November to have any chance to get there by Christmas. Of course, THAT's the package that gets there super fast LOL. Oh well, I'll just have to send another one.
Dec 1, 2013
GrandmaBarB
Okie, dokie. Time for a reality check here.....
First off, THE MILITARY DOES NOT RUN OUT OF FOOD ON DEPLOYMENT. They may run short of fresh veggies or fruits, fresh milk between resupply or other fresh things....but they NEVER RUN out of food. If they were stuck in the middle of a desert, there would be food available. MRE's or some such.
While a Rockwell feast of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy would be nice, there are 5000 people on that ship, all working different shifts, with different duties. Some may not get dinner break at exactly the right time, or may find their dinner time at 2 in the morning. What our sailors are doing is WARFARE.....protecting not only our nation, but helping to preserve peace, avoid attacks, assist when they can, resupply our military actually in harms way on the sands of Afghanistan...and heaven knows where else. This isn't a cruise....this isn't "fun:"...,it is dead serious business.
Of course they work, hard, long-long hours. Sometimes they may not sleep for two days....or get a rest break. The military isn't unionized. They are there for ONE reason only...to get the job done, whatever it is. Hundreds of people depend upon what they do...right there. A sailor doesn't die from long hours or no sleep. ...and the JOB must be done no matter what.
Injuries happen....in any job....anywhere. The Military has some of the best medical treatment in the world. They are not going to ignore injuries, or not treat them. When necessary, a sailor might be put on light duty or no duty for a day or two...but they are not going to have days of bedrest...not going to happen. If they are that sick, they will be evacuated to a land-based military facility.
Packages will arrive....when they arrive. Tons of mail and boxes are sent out every day---to everywhere. In a warzone, deliveries aren't based on a time schedule......they are based on opportunity and equipment.
People will leave, through discharge or transfer or whatever. The military all over has had to make serious decisions thanks to the screwball sequester delivered by Congress. Budget cuts in Defense is a reality...again...thanks to you=know=who. Instead of being mad at the Captain or the Navy...write a letter or an email or make a phone call and put your outrage where it belongs.....smack in the lap of your Representatives in Congress.
Our sailors are not in college. They are not there for the travel experience (even though that's a plus for many). They are there to work....sometimes long hours...sometimes when your hungry...sometimes when all you can do is collapse in your rack and hope for a couple hours sleep.
They don't need to hear anger from us. They don't need "outrage"....they need support and encouragement, not pity.
Frankly, we are lucky they are on a carrier instead of facing down IED's in the Middle East on sand....or standing off North Korean troops at the border....or manning the walls of Guantanamo Bay.
We all miss our sailors...terribly...and wish they were close, wish they were home for the holidays...but they are not. They are doing what they signed up to do.....serve their country.....
Dec 1, 2013
Gaisey
Respectfully, this is a blog for us mom's to cry our hearts out as we feel our sailor's pain, back in the day... we would NOT have heard their complaints about long lines for chow etc... thanks to e-mail, FB and other social media sites, we now feel their pain almost immediately... it helps us to vent. No harm in venting.. Thank goodness these sailor's have wonderful supportive mother's and Grandmother's, and family who care, and we ALL support our sailors growth.. The pain they are feeling is growth. "Character is best formed in the stormy billows of the world." Johan Wolfgang Von Goethe... Someone posted this quote on FB the other day...seemed fitting to me... as I dealt with my son's whining.. on Thanksgiving.
Dec 1, 2013
creeder1
GrandmaBarB, you are absolutely right, but I think Gaisey is right, too - we, as mothers, are just venting! I certainly mean no disrespect at all - I just miss my son and feel for him, but I know it is also a character-building experience.And - these boys are defending our country and our freedom - and we are lucky that they are on a carrier - but it is hard to turn the "mom-button" off!!
Dec 1, 2013
Gaisey
Quote from my son this morning... "Have you ever felt like you where meant to do something more with your life? Like for me I feel like im destined to do something important or I guess more profound than im doing now. something that I can be proud of for the rest of my life. I just haven't been able to figure it out yet. But hopefully I do soon enough. Random but I felt like saying it haha."
My response was for him to look for his pathway... bla bla bla... My son was a youth pastor at home, was in Bible college, but became disillusioned with the institution of religion. He chose not to take the path of religious petty officer as he wanted to be a "regular" guy. He loves the hard work in hazmat, he says it gives him time to think... I am happy he has the time to "think" about his pathway to do something "BIG."
Dec 1, 2013
jbr0001-USS Harry Truman-VAQ 130
Reality check well taken GrandmaB and I agree with Gaisey. I guess I get caught up with all the comments that you start feeling for these moms and forget for a minute that it is Warfare and they are there to do their job.I just got an email from my son he did go to dinner he spend the time in he rack watching a few movies and a well deserved break. He said that for the last 21/2 weeks it has been very hectic and they have been jumping through hoop to get their jobs done. I am relieved now and will focus on me getting through surgery tomorrow.I think some of us need a big (((Hug)))). Have a good evening
Dec 1, 2013
Gaisey
Dec 1, 2013
pschip
Paula I agreed with you. But as creeder1 but it we as moms just need to vent sometimes and this gives us the place to do that. I alway encourage my son with email and cards. And any other sailor that i can. GrandmaBarB you are right that is a big ship with a lot of people doing different jobs at different times. I know they didn't run out of food. There was food to eat. But if they are going to do a big meal with all the fixing there should be enough for everyone. And as far as the Christmas goodie bags i thought everyone was going to get one. My son wasn't mad because he didn't get the big meal he was thankful he got to eat and talk to everyone at home. And he said it was ok he didn't get a bag and some got more than one because some of the sailors never get any mail or cards from home i though how sad. So I pray that we can lift up our sailors and pray for them and their family's Have a great day.
Dec 1, 2013
pschip
jbr Good luck with your surgery in the morning you will be in my prayers.
Dec 1, 2013
Catsmom
The thing that upsets me about the goodie bags is this, there are about 7 thousand plus bags going to the Truman, we all worked hard, got donations, spent our own money so that each and every sailor on that ship would get something, I also sent all the extra stuff collected, as well as most others did. So when I hear that some are not getting one, because they were doing their job while they were received , and didn't get one. Yeah it upsets me. Whoever is in charge of that group, know what shift everyone works, so they should make sure they get theirs, or give them the opera unity to give their bag to someone who does not get anything. And I feel I have the right to voice my opinion, that is why we are here. Will my Sailor ever hear me being upset, NO. Bit we worked hard for our Sailors and Marines, they deserve to get what we sent them. As for the Thanksgiving meal, yeah it is sad when they don't all get turkey if that is what they wanted. My Daughter Told me she was thankful for getting a Bananna, she loves her fresh fruit. Was she disappointed to not have gotten any Turkey, yes. But she says this is life on a carrier, she was happy to have her bananna. I always tell her how proud I am of her, as I know we all do. Wll I ever let her know I was sad for her? NEVER. She knew what she signed up for, I knew what she signed up for. But as Mothers, wives ect. We have the right to voice our feeling to each other. That is why we are here.
My daughters husband wanted her to get pregnant, she told him Not Now, I was trained to do a job, the Navey spent a lot of money on my clearance, and training, I am going to do my job! I am very proud of her. I understand how things are. Her husband was in the Army, and has shrap metal in his brain from an IED. We all get it, we have the Freedom to speak what we feel, because of our AWESOME Military . And the comfort that everyone here understands how we feel.
GrandmaBBar, I Love You and Respect You, and Thank You for your service. And you have the right to speak your mind also. I am blessed to have all of you here for me and I thank you all for your understanding, and sometimes my ranting. God Bless You All, God Bless All our Sailors and Marines.
Dec 1, 2013
Coach Shelia
Dec 1, 2013
sheis22 Ship 02 Div. 932
Thanks everyone for all of the support. I know what my daughter signed up for & so does she. Yes she knows it is tough & will see it through, but we do need to voice what they tell us to get advise, which is what I am asking for. I will keep on encouraging her to STAY STRONG as I am & this too shall pass. My eldest son is a 12 year veteran and is the one who inspired her to serve her country & I am glad he did. She is my only baby girl & I just feel for her. Has anyone ever been on the Tiger Cruise?
Dec 1, 2013
GrandmaBarB
Suzann....thanks for your words. My intent wasn't to "get my head handed to me"...but to remind the Moms and all what our sailors are doing. They belong totally and 100% to the Navy. While we all wish our darlings were being cared for, like we care for them....the fact is they are not. They are adults in a War....and what their whims might be hold no water.
With the right grace, they will all return, whole, in one piece, with no injuries, with their heads in tact, with both feet, both arms and no PTSD. Meanwhile, it's unrealistic to expect that it's "just like home'. Having served in the Marines....and having 4 of 6 brothers served (2 didn't come home), a career Army Father, all Uncles served...a neice and 2 nephews crawling around in the sand somewhere in Afghanistan.....I KNOW what is going on.. Our sailors focus is 100% on their jobs....it has to be.....
I know it's upsetting to some that their kids are half way around the world and pretty much out of touch...I get it.....but, leave them alone. They must do their jobs...and sometimes it's not comfortable...sometimes you don't get a sit-down hot meal, sometimes you don't get any sleep....that isn't the mission.
Best to your sailor. Hawaii sounds great. My son has lived on Maui for 15 years andl oves it there. He'll never come back to the family fold, for sure...ha. I'm visiting him this month. Leaving next week and not coming back until New Years.
Dec 2, 2013
Coach Shelia
Dec 2, 2013
pschip
GrandmaBarB Have a nice trip to Hawaii Enjoy your time with your family
Dec 2, 2013
Coach Shelia
Dec 2, 2013
GrandmaBarB
pschip...thanks, gal. I look forward to seeing that little devil (He's my "baby"...just turned 50 and I haven'[t seen him since MAY 2012.---and that's too darned long.
He usually comes home twice a year for a long visit but wasn't around last Christmas...and no spring trip this year. I ACHE to hug him til his head pops off. I intend to spend HOURS looking at him...ha. He surprised me with the airline ticket a couple months ago.....so will be there for my birthday (21st) and Christmas...which is wonderful. He and I are going to spend 6 days on the Big Island..just the two of us before we head to Maui. Then I'll stay with him and his wonderful wife. (he finally married....at age 45...ha). I'm so excited I can barely sleep. He is such a wonderful man...I did a really good job on that kid, for sure...
Dec 2, 2013
GrandmaBarB
Sheila.....see you found your answer.....
Thanks...for your kind words.
Dec 2, 2013
Gaisey
Dec 2, 2013
nschn
Anyone live in Michigan with a sailor on the HST?
Thanks,
Nancy
Dec 3, 2013
Carol Ann
Nancy--I live close (sort of) in Ohio.
Dec 3, 2013
Catsmom
GrandmaB Bar, Have fun in Hawaii! I know how excited you are to see your son! Enjoy every minute, and enjoy Hawaii! I hear Dec. is the best time to go. So Happy for You!
Coach Shelia, how awesome that you are going back to school! What courses are you taking?
nschn, Southern California here, sorry not close.
Have a good day all, God Bless our Sailors, and all of you. We may not all agree all the time, but You are all a group of Amazing women! I am thankful to have you all her for your support and wisdom!
Dec 3, 2013
pschip
nschn sorry i'm in Georgia
everyone have a great day
Dec 3, 2013
GrandmaBarB
Catsmom...thanks for your "bon voyage" greetings. I've never been crazy about Hawaii...until my son moved there. He has shown me the REAL Hawaii as opposed to the TOURIST Hawaii....and it's wonderful. I prefer the Caribbean....,300 islands to chose from...and only a couple hours away...ha. But, I'd travel anywhere to see my son...... December is perfect. Lower humidity, milder temps. AND, whale migration season. We intend to do a lot of whale watching....ha. I'm very excited to spend some time with him alone on the Big Island.... I have never spent any time there and am looking forward to crawling all over volcanoes and lava....ha.....
Dec 3, 2013
GrandmaBarB
GAISEY Thanks for your kind words. Really looking forward to seeing him again. So excited I can barely sleep. It seems like forever since I've hugged that big lug of a man......,ha...,,,,
Dec 3, 2013
pschip
GrandmaBarB Give him a big hug from all of us and tell him thanks for all that he does. so when do you leave i will kept you in my prayers for safe travel and have a great time
Dec 3, 2013
Gaisey
Dec 3, 2013
Coach Shelia
Dec 3, 2013
GrandmaBarB
pschip...and all. Thanks for your kind words. I'm so excited to see him again.... Seems like forever.
I leave home on Tuesday next week. Will overnight at a hotel near JFK airport and leave on Wednesday. Flying Hawaiian Airlines, nonstop to Honolulu and will take a bug hopper to Hilo. Will arrive there about 5pm....weary, no doubt...and hungry. Will report when I return on the 27th or 28th...
Meanwhile Happy holidays to all...Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwanza and whatever you celebrate. I hope you all get exactly what you wish for tucked in your stocking, dreidel or basket.....
Dec 3, 2013
Catsmom
Coach Shelia, that is awesome, a friend of mine does that, she started her own company, and the Dr.'s she had went with her. Good Luck can't wait to meet everyone also!
Meeting friends for dinner tonight, Taco Tuesday..Yumm
Dec 3, 2013
Catsmom
Awesome about the patch! Happy your Sailor got off the ship today.
Dec 3, 2013
GrandmaBarB
/Thanks, Catsmom. I usually take gumdrops...which I love. Believe it or not, Hawaiian serves FOOD on their Honolulu nonstop. 2 meals and 2 snacks...and looks like LOTS of fresh fruit...which is fine with me. I LOVE to fly and enjoy every minute of it. I always arrive hungry, no matter what. Usually want hot carbs or a huge hot fudge sundae..... It's all in my head, no doubt.......
Dec 3, 2013
GrandmaBarB
Suzann.,,,I MUST know.
What is "shot off the ship"??????
Dec 3, 2013
Catsmom
Dec 3, 2013
Catsmom
That is good that they serve meals on the plane, and Fresh Fruit, my kind of airline..I think that is where my girl gets her wanting fresh fruit from..That or that is almost all I ate when I was pregnant with her...LOL
Dec 3, 2013
Carol Ann
Suzann- I just got my 2 ornaments last week in mail-one for me and one for my daughter (my sailor's big sis) to put on our trees. Last year my daughter made me cry Christmas Eve. She presented me with a little sailor ornament in his dress blues and that set me off thinking about my son and missing him for Christmas. I will have 3 this year on my tree in remembrance of my son who will not be home again for Christmas-his 2010 ornament from Truman's last deployment, this year's and the little sailor. (Don't have my tree up yet.) Does anyone know what co. to contact about their pictures and to get a yearbook from this cruise? I bought pictures last time but no yearbook and would like to get both to give to my son from this time and possibly see if I can get last deployment's book too. My son probably didn't even go to get his pict taken this time if I know him as last time he went but thought it was stupid. He refused to spend his money on picts but I did and have a picture of him framed on the wall in his Dress Blues. Someday I think he will appreciate it. My dad served in the Korean Was on the Mighty Mo--he manned the radar on the ship actually--and I would love for him to get out his yearbook and show me picts and talk about the Navy. He too was stationed in Norfolk, Va. like my son. As far as where to get the ornament contact FROG and they will tell you. They have a website to order from which I did. I will have to look it up and get back to you on that...
Dec 4, 2013
Carol Ann
Suzann--You may want to join the FRG Mailing List: "Join our email list by emailing hstfrg_commliaison@hstruman.net. Please have your sailor email from their CVN-75 address, and include your name, email address, sailors name, rank/rate, department, and division. Make sure to add our email to your contact list to avoid having our messages arrive in your junk or spam mail folder." FRG fundraising email is: hstfrg fund@hstruman.net Look on here for items you can purchase (like your ornaments).
Dec 4, 2013
DARmom
NSchn - Nancy, my son just got orders for Norfolk and is assigned to the HST. We are from Michigan (Jackson) and he will be leaving on Saturday for Norfolk.
Dec 4, 2013
pschip
Carol Ann the pictures were done with PortraitWorks there phone # 800-323-0578
I don't know anything about a year book but this is our first deployment. That would be nice to have to look back on in years to come.
Hope this helps
Dec 4, 2013
Gaisey
Dec 4, 2013
too tall Joan
GrandmaBarb have a wonderful time with your son and enjoy all the sight seeing, but I already know that you will. It is on my bucket list to visit the west coast and Hawaii.
My daughter got her birthday and christmas packages that I sent her. She loved her birthday cake in a jar and all the other goodies that I sent her. Her friends that she shared with said that I outdid myself with all the homemade things that I sent her. My sister's 5th grade class send her birthday & christmas cards for her and to pass out to others. She said that she read them and cried cause they were so cute and thoughtful. She asked me if I read them& cried before I sent them but she already knew the answer to that...I did.
Dec 4, 2013
Carol Ann
pschip: Thanks I will look them up.
Dec 4, 2013
pschip
Carol Ann if you find out any thing on the yearbook let me know please
Dec 4, 2013
JK Family
Hey everyone, I do not get on here often. Good to see everyone is staying strong for our sailors. We mailed a couple of Christmas packages to him....most likely he will have plenty to share. : )
Our son's 1st and only child will be turning one on the 20th. We are super busy planning a party for him. We're going to have 'dog tags' and a special note about our sailor on the loot bags for the children. Just trying to find ways to keep him and the fleet in prayers and thoughts of others.
Dec 4, 2013
Catsmom
Give that sweet boy a hug and Happy Birthday from me.
Dec 4, 2013
LindaD
Hi all, I usually just sit and read all your wonderful posts; I make comments occasionally. But today I need some expert, experienced advise. My son asked for a camera with very specific criteria and I finally got it today. I need to know the best way to pack it for him (It uses AA batteries so there is no lithium issue). Any suggestions and/or advise?
Dec 5, 2013
Catsmom
Have a good day everyone . Early day at work for me. Hoping to hear from my girl!
Dec 5, 2013
pschip
I'm happy he got his cards. i sent out a stack last week of Birthday and christmas cards i hope they all get them before christmas
Dec 5, 2013