I will miss the "poopie suits"

[B mom of S]

Well our Plebe, is now officially a Youngster (sophmore/3rd Class). It all happened so fast. Seems like Plebe Year came and went. Although, as another Navy Mom told her son that he replied, "You were not the one who was there". Nuff said!

I look at the growth of my son, after that one short year. I am in awe. He has mellowed and really come into his own. He confidence and maturity astounds me. His caring, empathy, and willingness to help anyone is beyond whatever I could have taught.

Looking at him clearly reflects what efforts I put forth as his mother. HOWEVER, the Navy has exponentially accelerated his growth, beyond anything I could or would have done. It's one thing to take stock of special your mid is. It is another to hear comments from others. I picked up Scott's uniforms from the cleaners, while he was traveling. The woman there was full of astounding words about my son, whom she had just met once. I myself, having met a recent Annapolis grad, can say the same thing about them. They have no idea what a lasting impression they leave.

Scott in his duffiness took it upon himself to introduce himself to Clint Black;s mgr. As a result Mr. Black spent a good amount of time, just shooting the breeze with Scott and his buddy Dillon. As impressed as Scott was to have the opportunity to meet him, I suspect Mr. Black was just as interested to talk to these fine young mids. Thank you Mr. Black for taking the time to talk with them, and for being a really down to earth guy.

Tomorrow he leaves to continue the second half of his vacation with family. I know that will be over before he knows it, and by the end of the month he will be in Annapolis for a briefing before his Summer Cruise. God love him, for the last two weeks our new home has been adorned with the blue "poopie suits" draped over the catwalk balcony. It is the 1st thing you see when you enter our home.If you are fearless enough to venture into his room, it has a wall of various shoes, boots, and gear aligned with the precision of a military procession. However, Scott has not forgotten to leave the dishes and snack wrappers strewn throughout.

MY GOD, how will miss the sight of it all and having something to bust his chops about. Oddly enough, I thought I-Day was tough. This is equally as hard, if not more so. Perhaps because I think I should be over the raw emotions of saying goodbye. Perhaps, I understand more as a Youngster Mom and am even more committed.... not only to my own mid, but any and all mids...Past, Present, and Future!

This year we have a couple of Napster's in our area. One has completed a year at NAPS, and headed to the Academy for his Plebe Year. Another is headed to NAPS. I am so proud of them! It is a hell of a warm up act. The skills are invaluable. Every Academy Grad, who attended NAPS, was glad they did. I can tell you Scott struggled to find his balance, amidst his injury and death of a family member.

Funny we have moved to our third, and we hope final resting place. Scott never changed his address while at the Academy, since we were in transition. Fortunately, we still have the same cell number and are no longer gypsies! Having moved here, Scott had few friends. We selfishly enjoyed a bit more time with him, vs the Touch and Go's in our home town.

May you have fair winds, Scott, as you sail off into the Wild Blue Yonder. That really is YOUR home. It's where you belong, and I commend you for your decision and your service. It is truly an honor and privilege to be your mommy!

[jdmom65(ship13 div 245)]

This is so wonderful! Can't wait for my son to get to this point. John's PIR is July 23rd. It can't come fast enough. I'm sure there is already a change within him. He has always been a good kid, but lazy and immature. I guess this will change too. (hopefully) LOL Well congratulations on you and Scott's achievements. Thanks for your service Scott, we all appreciate you!

[B mom of S]

Thanks. You WILL see the difference. Mine was a bit (OK let's be honest- quite a bit) like that. He was an early entry to school, and in hindsight it would have been best to wait a yr. The Navy has changed that, or rather him. Please thank John for his service as well.

May there be fair winds ahead!