Monkeyflower, I have to laugh a little, because my husband and I were dual Navy. He was on ships a lot, I was not. We took our first cruise a couple years ago, and it was funny to us how different it was. We may go again, I love being at sea, but honestly it was not our thing. We love to travel, and the port calls felt very rushed.
Anti M, I agree port days are too short. We actually love the days at sea. My husband and I are celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary this summer and have a 10 night southern Caribbean cruise booked for the end of June. We just found out that our sailor will be home on leave when we go on our cruise. But it's too late to cancel the cruise without paying a large penalty. We will have a week with him before we leave and then he'll have about a week home alone before he goes to Japan. This will be our 1st cruise without him. We are crazy close and it will be hard not having him with us. Because we are 2 hours from Great Lakes, we have seen him almost every weekend since he got there. It's a lot of driving, but soon he will be too far away so I'm taking full advantage.
Thank you all for your hugs. Tomorrow is my friend's funeral and all seems ready. Even her uniform. Awards that were missing are being found or purchased for the uniform.
Sailor likes being in Sasebo, he was there before and the area is beautifl and nice. This time - he just really wanted to be still on the mainland with duty. He had purchased a house and loves it. But he goes where he is told and now - as you can see from pass pics - he is loving hiking and climbing. Getting ready to trek up Mt. Fugi!
Only thing here that is frustrating - the weather!
Two days ago - the air had to beon
Today we have to have the heat on. Not kidding.
And the other night - the tornado sirens went off. Yes, we had very bad weather. But luckily all we got were winds. No damages. No I have my long johns on again.
Just found this group. My DS reported to Atsugi
recently and already deployed on the Reagan. Looking forward to sharing and learning with other Japan moms.
can anyone explain how to upload a picture from my phone? I think I have a S7 ?? Android???
they're working on getting my internet at home fixed and stronger. I bought a new mower, after 12 years mine blew up. a gasket or head....throwing oil and gas all over and yes, I was on it. I'm fine but had to spend my "baby money" on a lawn mover Grrr
Hi, everyone. long time since i've been on, but i read all the posts and i lift each of you & your marines up in prayer.
Memorial Day weekend is coming up and if you weren't aware there is an amazing group of people currently motoring (ror soon to be) across the country ending in D.C. and paying their respects at the Wall. Run For the Wall - they do this every year. https://www.rftw.us/ They also join up on Sunday with Rolling Thunder in the Pentagon parking lot for the Freedom Parade. I am riding this year with my husband for the first time (whose father is POW/MIA - Vietnam) and if you want to be uplifted between now and the weekend, and you are on facebook, go find the Run For the Wall page and read the 3 different routes daily blogs.
I hope you don't mind my sharing - this Run is just an amazing thing. And perhaps the most heartwarming I look forward to seeing on Sunday will be when I see the lone Marine standing on Constitution Avenue, saluting the entire length of the parade (which is 3-4 hours long) - which he has done since 2002.
we follow this event Every year, sadly we have never rode in it and will not be attending this year. Have to save all my vacation days for my sweet granddaughter.
Jump In the water - that mean to share more about yourself and sailor. One piece of advice we ask - does your sailor has his or hers civilian passport? Yes, Navy gives them one - but sometimes the other one is needed. If he/she does not - help get one!
No, I am in northern Illinois. Very near Wisconsin :). Rockford - where the famous Peaches - female baseball team started
I hate that Blondie - something always happens to get that Grandma saved Baby money! Sorry - hope you win the lottery
And I think it is great you are riding - Scully. !!! Awesome Have a blast. hope there will be some pics of you to share later. AFter I finish up some mailings I will go and see the links. Thanks
My sailor is doing ok. I know he is fine - he shared a pic of him and fellow sailors climbing up a mountain again. They are in practice for climbing Mt Fuji. And he did find an apartment. But I have no address yet.
I'm just outside of Madison, my sister lives by Poplar Grove.
My sailor finished BECC #2 in his class, missed 1st by less than 1 point. He starts his mm strand Tuesday. We're going to get him Monday, he's bringing a buddy up to go airsofting. We've been getting him every weekend. It's only 2 hours each way for him, but 4 for us. I don't mind, in another month I will wish we could drive 2 hours to see him.
He's emailed his sponsor but hasn't received a reply. He'll be at Sasebo, any experience with sponsors there? He has a passport, so we're good there.
Thanks, T-Lynn, glad to hear he got his apartment and is staying active.
Yes, Scully pictures would be Great!
We went to the Ohio Wall, the park is growing so fast!!!! The Park started out as the Vietnam Veterans Park (we lost a brother there) but was changed to just Veterans park because they honor all from the War of 1812 forward, sadly names and wars are still being added to the back of the Wall. It's better then any history book! Gives the cause of the was, the outcome, the uniforms, how many Ohioans fought and how many died....We've added a reflection pond for MIA/POW, a Purple Heart monument, a Medal of Honor monument, we've always had the Gold Star Mother over looking the wall now we have a Gold Star Father.....The Wall is the longest free-standing monument in the country, The granite that the wall is made of is quarried from the same site as the national wall. Don't get me started LOL So much more is in the planning stages. We had an 80 piece Orchestra playing .....
When we got too much sun/heat we drove 30 mins. in air conditioning :) and went to the Akron Zoo to see our Son and Daughter in Law. Walked a couple more hours, ate supper and drove back home. Where I had to pick my strawberries, take bedding off the clothes lime and remake the beds.....but the storms held off, even got our showers taken before lost electricity. God is Good.
Monkeyflower, That is GREAT that you can see him that often!
Blondie, my several times-great grandfather fought in the War of 1812, in an Ohio company. I will need to look and see if I have the details. I'd love to see that monument.
OH, I wish I'd known I would have taken a picture for you. check out the web site. http://www.ovmp.org/ or this one might be better for you, you can pick which war you want to read up on. http://www.ovmp.org/the-wall.htm We also have a Family of Heroes Hall.
blondie that wall memorial sounds awesome and loving. Will take a look at the websites - thank you.
Me too - that thankful feeling of getting all outside things done before the rain hits. Here too. And it looks like this weekend - rain and t-storms! I am thinking of building an ark. Glad you had great time with your family.
HI Anti- M. Hope you are doing ok.
Monkeyflower - so glad you get to see on the weekends. When our sailor was at Great Lakes - we too drove those 4 hours. We would have several other sailors along too. Just to give them a break form the base and have homemade cookies. I would bake the day before - at least 5 dozen. Those cookies were gone by Saturday morning!. So I would bake more and they would take them bake to the base.
One time - when my sailor had the experience of the Great Cookie Chase. When he got back to the his barracks - another mate offered to help him take his gear up. Well, he said he was helping my sailor unpack - wrong - my sailor turned his back - the mate took off with the five huge zip lock bags of cookies! He ran out the door yelling " I got the cookies !!" To this mate's surprise - he found out just how fast my sailor can run - even up 4 flights of stairs! My sailor later told me - the mate was ok - just funny and he had already planned on sharing teh cookies. But was was even funnier - was that the commander was watching this chase. No one got into trouble - the commander had a great laugh - and you guessed it - my sailor shared his cookies with the Commander.
So you are close :). Maybe one day we can meet.
Need to get along - Monday starts Cub Scout Day Camp. And I have to finish a craft for the kids to complete.
wish all a great day hugs
check in Maggs - just need to hear from you. hugs
Kim - HI :)
Ok - I started the roll call. If you have not checked in- do so. Need my gossip tank refilled :).
Hi Maggs, our schools have been out for over a week now.
T-Lynn, outside work is never done LOL but we're caught up for now, part of the garden is in, too wet to continue. really need to get spring cleaning done but who has the energy or time to wash walls and such. My house needs paint....! We hit the important things, like food, laundry, mow grass, Visiting Family and our Peace (the Veterans Memorial Park). Make a BIG ARK, we'll all come with our families. :)
I love all the pictures. Speaking of......Skully, I would love to see pictures from Memorial Day weekend.
MonkeyFlower, My DIL is from Sasebo and has a large family there. I can get answers for you about the area. Feel free to PM me.
Maggs, (((HUGS)))
Blondie, I wish it was only the weather. I only shared with TLynn that I was diagnosed with breast cancer last month. I had my surgery yesterday and it went well. Next week I will get the results that hopefully Stage 1. It is an aggressive type so I will need chemo. Also, I will be on a targeted drug for a year, followed by radiation and hormone blockers for 5-10 years. (the works!) I opted for lumpectomy because it allows me to start treatments sooner and I can change to masectomy later. I have been keeping quiet until I have all the results. I want to have all the answers before I tell my children and work. I am flying to visit my son in the navy 2 weeks today and will tell him in person. It was a planned trip and perfect timing, because I needed 3 weeks to heal and I will still have my hair. We are participating in a 'family cruise' on June 19th. I promise pictures!
I love you ladies. Keep you fingers crossed and say a prayer that my results come back with clear margins (got it all and then some) and an early stage.
Last day of school here for my girls (finishing up 4th and 11th grade). My sailor picked up E-5 this round - yay! That's his second promotion in less than a year (E-4 last Aug) -not bad for 18 months in. Very proud of him as he also received JSOQ for his command.
the first one is the group "Run For The Wall" - they always do their group photo on Saturday on the steps at the Lincoln Memorial - we had to find 3 wall sisters in that crowd and we did! the second picture is at panel 1w which is the end of the Vietnam war - that is my hubby. and the 3d is our Rolling Thunder tribute wreath to all our state's still POW/MIAs - we carried all the dog tags and hung them on Friday night. this picture is from Saturday.
Kim, my thoughts are with you. It is good to have a treatment plan, so much better than the unknown. That waiting between diagnosis and treatment is terrifying.
I had BC in 2004. Lumpectomy, brachytherapy radiation because it was stage one and I had plenty of tissue, no chemo. Tamoxifen for five years. That was interesting, Tamoxifen can be a roller coaster.
I had a colon carcinoid the same year, completely unrelated. Also stage one, simple surgical solution. Well, not so simple, I am on my fourth or fifth hernia from that!
Kim - NMH to you and prayers for good news. Where are you going on your cruise? We love cruising - we leave for a 10 night southern on June 28th.
Scully - great pictures thanks for sharing!
My sailor finished BECC 2nd in his class, he missed 1st by less than 1 point. He was disappointed but happy to received the recommendation letter for E4 advancement. He should be E3 by the end of this week. MM school is going well, he is set to graduate 6/14 then start his leave. Initially he thought it would be 15 days, now it may be longer. Anxiously awaiting more info since his father and I are going on a cruise the end of this month. We will be leaving while he is still home. Too late to cancel the cruise without loosing our money.
Ha Ha. I confused you about the cruise. It is on an aircraft carrier for a day. He is on the USS Roosevelt in San Diego now. They take the ship out to sea for the day with family members and call it a family cruise. I confused my surgeon too. I asked him if I will be able to climb a lot of ladders by June 19th.
I will be avoiding all other travel. I will probably wear a mask on the airplane. Chemo will start when I get home.
Kim, sorry to hear that, will keep you in my Prayers. Hugs Excited for the family cruise. I've also heard them called Tiger cruise. either way, I'm sure you'll enjoy yourself. Just seeing him will lift your spirits.
Man overboard happened one time when my sailor was deployed. The family was notified immediately and the captain got word to the Ombudsman to notify the other families that it was not their sailor. All outgoing communication was shut down until the search was over.
I don't know much else about it except that they do drills to practice for it. I know it starts with whistles and muster. Then there are drills for everything from search to rescue. Our sailors safety is a priority.
OH Blondie - So sweet!!!! he is so big now, but love those eyes and kiss those baby toes for me. Well, the weather has changed. Now it is steamy and hot. So the building of the Ark is now on hold.
Scully - LOVE the pictures !!! Looks like you had a great time. Thank you for sharing.
Maggs - have you found out any reason you were unfriended on some moms pages? Are you back on where you can post? You MUST have some great Angle stories.
Kim - I believe in you. You know that Pink Flamingo good feeling. When you get those mask to wear on teh plane - before you put them on - decorate them. Everyone will then know your strength of life and your funny side. Then post the pics here :)>.
Here we have been able to plant - in buckets - one tomatoe plant and some Wee-Bee pumpkins and in the ground - 4 heritage pumpkins. The other seeds we planted - peppers - flowers did not make it.
Riker just has to help in all we do too. Plus he could give a parrot lessons. he repeats everything - and I mean OMG - EVERYTHING !! And he now knows how to use the water fountain button - the button to get ice our of the refrig door and open the back door and walk out. oh long for the days he was in a johny jumper. He even forgets himself and will fun over teh poor dog.
Need to get to bed. Second week of Day Camp with Cub Scouts.
My sailor graduates A school tomorrow and starts his leave on Wednesday. I'm starting to feel a little panicked. How do I manage this "see you later" when it's taking him to the other side of the world? He's not heard anything from the sponsor. How will he get from the airport to the base at Sasebo?
If his sponsor doesn't get in touch with him, when he is at the airport, he should look for the " D O D" desk. Usually they have a help desk and can show him when and where the base bus picks them up.
Thanks everyone! He doesn't even get his travel information until tomorrow after he graduates. I'm a big planner so this seems so very last minute to me.
I feel bad that we won't be here to see him off at the airport. We will be on a cruise - won't even know if he arrived safely. I just don't like any of this and want to keep him home with me. He's so excited though - I keep reminding myself that this is what is supposed to happen - they grow up and pursue their dreams...
I think I have been kicked out of N4M once, then reentered, set it up then had all my friends and messages deleted. Its annoying... Good job I have my little Chrarlie and Angel to keep me happy.
When my son graduated C school we went for the graduation, his dad grandfather and I. He had a car in Texas and I was going to drive back with him. Well that changed quickly because even though he knew where he was going the Navy and the travel plans were taking their time. 1 week to be exact. I could not stay because I had not taken that much time off from work. His grandfather got elected. We had to arrange a room for him. He had to call his doctor for a prescription.
Monkey flower, 2tymes situation sounds similar to my sons.He knew he was going to Japan but couldn't get specific information. He was approved 30 days leave after graduation. The first night home he received an email and a week later we were putting him on a plane and two days later his ship deployed. Thank goodness someone in his squadron took him under his wing,met him at the airport helped him get his "kit" together.Somehow it all works out.
Welcome back Maggs! Love the pictures of Charlie and Angel.
MonkeyFlower, we have been on the site for years and we haven't lost a sailor yet. Sometimes, their sponsor doesn't contact them and they are on their own. Your sailor will have a phone number for the base that is manned 24/7. That is the most important number. He phones them if missed connection, missed bus, etc. Anti M will know who it is. I think it is the base command.
He will probably fly to Fukuoka where he will catch the bus (3 times daily) to the base. The airport closes at night but my sailor has slept outside. He says there are a few sailors coming or going sleeping. There is also a train that runs from the airport to just outside the base. It will cost him.
Hopefully, your sailor has a credit card. It is important that they have one with no foreign exchange rate. Debit cards can be hacked and they are out the money until they prove the fraud (tough in foreign country). Credit cards will do a charge back immediately and it is up to the merchant to prove it is not fraud. Your sailor WILL be shopping in many countries. Notify the credit card company of traveling. He may have to order a new credit card before leaving.
Speaking of money. Your sailor should have $200.00 U.S. in yen on him. The airports have exchange booths.
POA is a good idea. Also, he should put you on some of his accounts. He can keep his U.S. phone service and have it turned off with no charges. You can turn it on when he comes to visit and they will prorate. My sailor authorized me to speak to his bank and credit card. I had my sailor on my account so it only cost 1/2 of $10.00 plus taxes.
If you have internet access on your trip, you can watch him fly. I use flightaware.com
Hugs Monkeyflower. we understand your concerns and worries, we've all been there biting our nails. All I can tell you in my 10 years I've never heard of a major problem. My daughter was in Japan and she said they were very helpful, first few days they teach you about the train schedules, money....they take them out for trials....He'll be fine, God has this!
Sorry, Maggs, that happened to me last year, I Panic glad you found your way back Beautiful Baby!
My first weekend in Yokosuka, I decided to go sightseeing by myself. I hadn't been through the Intercultural class yet, but I had been in Japan before and wan't too worried. Of course I took the wrong train line. A very nice man showed me which train to take to get to a transfer point, and ride along to make sure I got to the right train line. It is what they do!
Anti M
Hugs, T-Lynn.
Monkeyflower, I have to laugh a little, because my husband and I were dual Navy. He was on ships a lot, I was not. We took our first cruise a couple years ago, and it was funny to us how different it was. We may go again, I love being at sea, but honestly it was not our thing. We love to travel, and the port calls felt very rushed.
May 15, 2017
Monkeyflower
Anti M, I agree port days are too short. We actually love the days at sea. My husband and I are celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary this summer and have a 10 night southern Caribbean cruise booked for the end of June. We just found out that our sailor will be home on leave when we go on our cruise. But it's too late to cancel the cruise without paying a large penalty. We will have a week with him before we leave and then he'll have about a week home alone before he goes to Japan. This will be our 1st cruise without him. We are crazy close and it will be hard not having him with us. Because we are 2 hours from Great Lakes, we have seen him almost every weekend since he got there. It's a lot of driving, but soon he will be too far away so I'm taking full advantage.
May 16, 2017
Anti M
I hope you enjoy both your time with your sailor and the cruise! Ours was also Caribbean, but only a week, Western.
We live in the Mountain West. Long drives are normal out here.
May 16, 2017
Kim
I have been distracted recently and now catching up. Lots to catch up on.
Welcome new moms. Monkeyflower, My daughter in law is from Sasebo and can answer questions. My son says she has 1000 cousins there.
Maggs, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Drew, we are here to share and support each other.
T-Lynn, I am sorry for your loss.
May 17, 2017
T-Lynn
Thank you all for your hugs. Tomorrow is my friend's funeral and all seems ready. Even her uniform. Awards that were missing are being found or purchased for the uniform.
Sailor likes being in Sasebo, he was there before and the area is beautifl and nice. This time - he just really wanted to be still on the mainland with duty. He had purchased a house and loves it. But he goes where he is told and now - as you can see from pass pics - he is loving hiking and climbing. Getting ready to trek up Mt. Fugi!
Only thing here that is frustrating - the weather!
Two days ago - the air had to beon
Today we have to have the heat on. Not kidding.
And the other night - the tornado sirens went off. Yes, we had very bad weather. But luckily all we got were winds. No damages. No I have my long johns on again.
Wish all a great weekend hugs.
May 19, 2017
Monkeyflower
May 20, 2017
peachstatemom
recently and already deployed on the Reagan. Looking forward to sharing and learning with other Japan moms.
May 21, 2017
Blondie
Finally getting back on here.
Maggs, my heart has been heavy for you...HUGS
T-Lynn, hope they got everything and all went well. Ditto on the weather here.
Kim, I too find myself distracted and pulled in every direction, is it the season? weather? life?!
Welcome Aboard peachstatemom.
May 23, 2017
Blondie
can anyone explain how to upload a picture from my phone? I think I have a S7 ?? Android???
they're working on getting my internet at home fixed and stronger. I bought a new mower, after 12 years mine blew up. a gasket or head....throwing oil and gas all over and yes, I was on it. I'm fine but had to spend my "baby money" on a lawn mover Grrr
May 23, 2017
scully_the_skeptic
Hi, everyone. long time since i've been on, but i read all the posts and i lift each of you & your marines up in prayer.
Memorial Day weekend is coming up and if you weren't aware there is an amazing group of people currently motoring (ror soon to be) across the country ending in D.C. and paying their respects at the Wall. Run For the Wall - they do this every year. https://www.rftw.us/ They also join up on Sunday with Rolling Thunder in the Pentagon parking lot for the Freedom Parade. I am riding this year with my husband for the first time (whose father is POW/MIA - Vietnam) and if you want to be uplifted between now and the weekend, and you are on facebook, go find the Run For the Wall page and read the 3 different routes daily blogs.
I hope you don't mind my sharing - this Run is just an amazing thing. And perhaps the most heartwarming I look forward to seeing on Sunday will be when I see the lone Marine standing on Constitution Avenue, saluting the entire length of the parade (which is 3-4 hours long) - which he has done since 2002.
Happy Memorial Day weekend to all of you.
May 23, 2017
Blondie
we follow this event Every year, sadly we have never rode in it and will not be attending this year. Have to save all my vacation days for my sweet granddaughter.
May 26, 2017
T-Lynn
HI
Welcome aboard Peach !!
Jump In the water - that mean to share more about yourself and sailor. One piece of advice we ask - does your sailor has his or hers civilian passport? Yes, Navy gives them one - but sometimes the other one is needed. If he/she does not - help get one!
No, I am in northern Illinois. Very near Wisconsin :). Rockford - where the famous Peaches - female baseball team started
I hate that Blondie - something always happens to get that Grandma saved Baby money! Sorry - hope you win the lottery
And I think it is great you are riding - Scully. !!! Awesome Have a blast. hope there will be some pics of you to share later. AFter I finish up some mailings I will go and see the links. Thanks
My sailor is doing ok. I know he is fine - he shared a pic of him and fellow sailors climbing up a mountain again. They are in practice for climbing Mt Fuji. And he did find an apartment. But I have no address yet.
Need to get along - hugs all
May 27, 2017
Monkeyflower
My sailor finished BECC #2 in his class, missed 1st by less than 1 point. He starts his mm strand Tuesday. We're going to get him Monday, he's bringing a buddy up to go airsofting. We've been getting him every weekend. It's only 2 hours each way for him, but 4 for us. I don't mind, in another month I will wish we could drive 2 hours to see him.
He's emailed his sponsor but hasn't received a reply. He'll be at Sasebo, any experience with sponsors there? He has a passport, so we're good there.
May 27, 2017
Blondie
Thanks, T-Lynn, glad to hear he got his apartment and is staying active.
Yes, Scully pictures would be Great!
We went to the Ohio Wall, the park is growing so fast!!!! The Park started out as the Vietnam Veterans Park (we lost a brother there) but was changed to just Veterans park because they honor all from the War of 1812 forward, sadly names and wars are still being added to the back of the Wall. It's better then any history book! Gives the cause of the was, the outcome, the uniforms, how many Ohioans fought and how many died....We've added a reflection pond for MIA/POW, a Purple Heart monument, a Medal of Honor monument, we've always had the Gold Star Mother over looking the wall now we have a Gold Star Father.....The Wall is the longest free-standing monument in the country, The granite that the wall is made of is quarried from the same site as the national wall. Don't get me started LOL So much more is in the planning stages. We had an 80 piece Orchestra playing .....
When we got too much sun/heat we drove 30 mins. in air conditioning :) and went to the Akron Zoo to see our Son and Daughter in Law. Walked a couple more hours, ate supper and drove back home. Where I had to pick my strawberries, take bedding off the clothes lime and remake the beds.....but the storms held off, even got our showers taken before lost electricity. God is Good.
Monkeyflower, That is GREAT that you can see him that often!
May 30, 2017
Anti M
Blondie, my several times-great grandfather fought in the War of 1812, in an Ohio company. I will need to look and see if I have the details. I'd love to see that monument.
May 30, 2017
Blondie
OH, I wish I'd known I would have taken a picture for you. check out the web site. http://www.ovmp.org/ or this one might be better for you, you can pick which war you want to read up on. http://www.ovmp.org/the-wall.htm We also have a Family of Heroes Hall.
May 30, 2017
T-Lynn
HI
blondie that wall memorial sounds awesome and loving. Will take a look at the websites - thank you.
Me too - that thankful feeling of getting all outside things done before the rain hits. Here too. And it looks like this weekend - rain and t-storms! I am thinking of building an ark. Glad you had great time with your family.
HI Anti- M. Hope you are doing ok.
Monkeyflower - so glad you get to see on the weekends. When our sailor was at Great Lakes - we too drove those 4 hours. We would have several other sailors along too. Just to give them a break form the base and have homemade cookies. I would bake the day before - at least 5 dozen. Those cookies were gone by Saturday morning!. So I would bake more and they would take them bake to the base.
One time - when my sailor had the experience of the Great Cookie Chase. When he got back to the his barracks - another mate offered to help him take his gear up. Well, he said he was helping my sailor unpack - wrong - my sailor turned his back - the mate took off with the five huge zip lock bags of cookies! He ran out the door yelling " I got the cookies !!" To this mate's surprise - he found out just how fast my sailor can run - even up 4 flights of stairs! My sailor later told me - the mate was ok - just funny and he had already planned on sharing teh cookies. But was was even funnier - was that the commander was watching this chase. No one got into trouble - the commander had a great laugh - and you guessed it - my sailor shared his cookies with the Commander.
So you are close :). Maybe one day we can meet.
Need to get along - Monday starts Cub Scout Day Camp. And I have to finish a craft for the kids to complete.
wish all a great day hugs
check in Maggs - just need to hear from you. hugs
Kim - HI :)
Ok - I started the roll call. If you have not checked in- do so. Need my gossip tank refilled :).
May 31, 2017
maggs
Still here, still reading, only a week and a half left of school year... :)
May 31, 2017
Blondie
Hi Maggs, our schools have been out for over a week now.
T-Lynn, outside work is never done LOL but we're caught up for now, part of the garden is in, too wet to continue. really need to get spring cleaning done but who has the energy or time to wash walls and such. My house needs paint....! We hit the important things, like food, laundry, mow grass, Visiting Family and our Peace (the Veterans Memorial Park). Make a BIG ARK, we'll all come with our families. :)
Jun 1, 2017
Blondie
Jun 1, 2017
Kim
Hi.
I love all the pictures. Speaking of......Skully, I would love to see pictures from Memorial Day weekend.
MonkeyFlower, My DIL is from Sasebo and has a large family there. I can get answers for you about the area. Feel free to PM me.
Maggs, (((HUGS)))
Blondie, I wish it was only the weather. I only shared with TLynn that I was diagnosed with breast cancer last month. I had my surgery yesterday and it went well. Next week I will get the results that hopefully Stage 1. It is an aggressive type so I will need chemo. Also, I will be on a targeted drug for a year, followed by radiation and hormone blockers for 5-10 years. (the works!) I opted for lumpectomy because it allows me to start treatments sooner and I can change to masectomy later. I have been keeping quiet until I have all the results. I want to have all the answers before I tell my children and work. I am flying to visit my son in the navy 2 weeks today and will tell him in person. It was a planned trip and perfect timing, because I needed 3 weeks to heal and I will still have my hair. We are participating in a 'family cruise' on June 19th. I promise pictures!
I love you ladies. Keep you fingers crossed and say a prayer that my results come back with clear margins (got it all and then some) and an early stage.
Jun 2, 2017
NavyMum
Kim - ((((Hugs))) and prayers
Blondie - so cute!
Last day of school here for my girls (finishing up 4th and 11th grade). My sailor picked up E-5 this round - yay! That's his second promotion in less than a year (E-4 last Aug) -not bad for 18 months in. Very proud of him as he also received JSOQ for his command.
Jun 2, 2017
scully_the_skeptic
Jun 2, 2017
scully_the_skeptic
Jun 2, 2017
scully_the_skeptic
Jun 2, 2017
scully_the_skeptic
the first one is the group "Run For The Wall" - they always do their group photo on Saturday on the steps at the Lincoln Memorial - we had to find 3 wall sisters in that crowd and we did! the second picture is at panel 1w which is the end of the Vietnam war - that is my hubby. and the 3d is our Rolling Thunder tribute wreath to all our state's still POW/MIAs - we carried all the dog tags and hung them on Friday night. this picture is from Saturday.
Jun 2, 2017
scully_the_skeptic
Jun 2, 2017
Kim
Navymum, congrats, that is impressive.
Scully, thank you for sharing. TISSUE ALERT! I teared up.
Jun 2, 2017
NavyMum
Thank you Kim - I'm very proud!
Scully - great pictures - thank you!
Jun 2, 2017
Anti M
Kim, my thoughts are with you. It is good to have a treatment plan, so much better than the unknown. That waiting between diagnosis and treatment is terrifying.
I had BC in 2004. Lumpectomy, brachytherapy radiation because it was stage one and I had plenty of tissue, no chemo. Tamoxifen for five years. That was interesting, Tamoxifen can be a roller coaster.
I had a colon carcinoid the same year, completely unrelated. Also stage one, simple surgical solution. Well, not so simple, I am on my fourth or fifth hernia from that!
Jun 2, 2017
2tymeNavyMom
Ah Kim, praying for great news when you get your results back. Will also pray for quick healing and great trips.
Love the pictures from memorial day. We had over 8,000 motorcycles for rolling thunder in my area. So impressive and heart warming.
Jun 2, 2017
Monkeyflower
Kim - NMH to you and prayers for good news. Where are you going on your cruise? We love cruising - we leave for a 10 night southern on June 28th.
Scully - great pictures thanks for sharing!
My sailor finished BECC 2nd in his class, he missed 1st by less than 1 point. He was disappointed but happy to received the recommendation letter for E4 advancement. He should be E3 by the end of this week. MM school is going well, he is set to graduate 6/14 then start his leave. Initially he thought it would be 15 days, now it may be longer. Anxiously awaiting more info since his father and I are going on a cruise the end of this month. We will be leaving while he is still home. Too late to cancel the cruise without loosing our money.
Jun 2, 2017
Kim
Ha Ha. I confused you about the cruise. It is on an aircraft carrier for a day. He is on the USS Roosevelt in San Diego now. They take the ship out to sea for the day with family members and call it a family cruise. I confused my surgeon too. I asked him if I will be able to climb a lot of ladders by June 19th.
I will be avoiding all other travel. I will probably wear a mask on the airplane. Chemo will start when I get home.
Jun 2, 2017
Blondie
Kim, sorry to hear that, will keep you in my Prayers. Hugs Excited for the family cruise. I've also heard them called Tiger cruise. either way, I'm sure you'll enjoy yourself. Just seeing him will lift your spirits.
Scully, WONDERFUL pictures! Thanks for sharing.
Jun 6, 2017
Kim
Man overboard happened one time when my sailor was deployed. The family was notified immediately and the captain got word to the Ombudsman to notify the other families that it was not their sailor. All outgoing communication was shut down until the search was over.
I don't know much else about it except that they do drills to practice for it. I know it starts with whistles and muster. Then there are drills for everything from search to rescue. Our sailors safety is a priority.
Jun 10, 2017
maggs
I cannot post. some of them dont show up!
Jun 11, 2017
maggs
Trying to send messages to Kim over the last few days, However they will not post!
Jun 11, 2017
Kim
Maggs, we seem to be unfriended. I sent a friend request.
Jun 11, 2017
T-Lynn
HI All
OH Blondie - So sweet!!!! he is so big now, but love those eyes and kiss those baby toes for me. Well, the weather has changed. Now it is steamy and hot. So the building of the Ark is now on hold.
Scully - LOVE the pictures !!! Looks like you had a great time. Thank you for sharing.
Maggs - have you found out any reason you were unfriended on some moms pages? Are you back on where you can post? You MUST have some great Angle stories.
Kim - I believe in you. You know that Pink Flamingo good feeling. When you get those mask to wear on teh plane - before you put them on - decorate them. Everyone will then know your strength of life and your funny side. Then post the pics here :)>.
Here we have been able to plant - in buckets - one tomatoe plant and some Wee-Bee pumpkins and in the ground - 4 heritage pumpkins. The other seeds we planted - peppers - flowers did not make it.
Riker just has to help in all we do too. Plus he could give a parrot lessons. he repeats everything - and I mean OMG - EVERYTHING !! And he now knows how to use the water fountain button - the button to get ice our of the refrig door and open the back door and walk out. oh long for the days he was in a johny jumper. He even forgets himself and will fun over teh poor dog.
Need to get to bed. Second week of Day Camp with Cub Scouts.
Wish all sweet dreams
Jun 11, 2017
Monkeyflower
Jun 12, 2017
Anti M
If his sponsor doesn't get in touch with him, when he is at the airport, he should look for the " D O D" desk. Usually they have a help desk and can show him when and where the base bus picks them up.
The bus sign up is online too.
https://www.cnic.navy.mil/regions/cnrj/installations/cfa_sasebo/ffr...
Jun 12, 2017
Monkeyflower
Thanks everyone! He doesn't even get his travel information until tomorrow after he graduates. I'm a big planner so this seems so very last minute to me.
I feel bad that we won't be here to see him off at the airport. We will be on a cruise - won't even know if he arrived safely. I just don't like any of this and want to keep him home with me. He's so excited though - I keep reminding myself that this is what is supposed to happen - they grow up and pursue their dreams...
Jun 12, 2017
maggs
I think I have been kicked out of N4M once, then reentered, set it up then had all my friends and messages deleted. Its annoying... Good job I have my little Chrarlie and Angel to keep me happy.
Jun 12, 2017
maggs
Jun 12, 2017
2tymeNavyMom
MonkeyFlower,
When my son graduated C school we went for the graduation, his dad grandfather and I. He had a car in Texas and I was going to drive back with him. Well that changed quickly because even though he knew where he was going the Navy and the travel plans were taking their time. 1 week to be exact. I could not stay because I had not taken that much time off from work. His grandfather got elected. We had to arrange a room for him. He had to call his doctor for a prescription.
Short story long....that's the Navy for you.
Jun 12, 2017
peachstatemom
Jun 12, 2017
Kim
Welcome back Maggs! Love the pictures of Charlie and Angel.
MonkeyFlower, we have been on the site for years and we haven't lost a sailor yet. Sometimes, their sponsor doesn't contact them and they are on their own. Your sailor will have a phone number for the base that is manned 24/7. That is the most important number. He phones them if missed connection, missed bus, etc. Anti M will know who it is. I think it is the base command.
He will probably fly to Fukuoka where he will catch the bus (3 times daily) to the base. The airport closes at night but my sailor has slept outside. He says there are a few sailors coming or going sleeping. There is also a train that runs from the airport to just outside the base. It will cost him.
Hopefully, your sailor has a credit card. It is important that they have one with no foreign exchange rate. Debit cards can be hacked and they are out the money until they prove the fraud (tough in foreign country). Credit cards will do a charge back immediately and it is up to the merchant to prove it is not fraud. Your sailor WILL be shopping in many countries. Notify the credit card company of traveling. He may have to order a new credit card before leaving.
Speaking of money. Your sailor should have $200.00 U.S. in yen on him. The airports have exchange booths.
POA is a good idea. Also, he should put you on some of his accounts. He can keep his U.S. phone service and have it turned off with no charges. You can turn it on when he comes to visit and they will prorate. My sailor authorized me to speak to his bank and credit card. I had my sailor on my account so it only cost 1/2 of $10.00 plus taxes.
If you have internet access on your trip, you can watch him fly. I use flightaware.com
Jun 13, 2017
Blondie
Hugs Monkeyflower. we understand your concerns and worries, we've all been there biting our nails. All I can tell you in my 10 years I've never heard of a major problem. My daughter was in Japan and she said they were very helpful, first few days they teach you about the train schedules, money....they take them out for trials....He'll be fine, God has this!
Sorry, Maggs, that happened to me last year, I Panic glad you found your way back Beautiful Baby!
Great advice Kim
Jun 13, 2017
Anti M
My first weekend in Yokosuka, I decided to go sightseeing by myself. I hadn't been through the Intercultural class yet, but I had been in Japan before and wan't too worried. Of course I took the wrong train line. A very nice man showed me which train to take to get to a transfer point, and ride along to make sure I got to the right train line. It is what they do!
Jun 13, 2017
Blondie
Yes, they do. they are very polite and helpful. Very clean country too!
Jun 13, 2017