Today is the day

[Casey's mom]

Standing outside crying waiting for recruiter to pick up my son. Don't know how I am going to get through this.

[roguevalgal]

Hi Casey's mom: while it may not feel like it now, each day WILL get better. Saying goodbye to your son and his leaving home for the first time is heartwrenching.
This website, NavyforMoms, is a great source of support and information. I encourage to join the groups that you relate to I.e., your son's division, chosen rating recruit group, pass in review PIR graduation date grp, and perhaps your home state grp. There are "veteran Moms in each group to answer your questions, tell you what to expect during boot camp and graduation, plus you'll meet many other moms who are sharing your feelings and concerns. I've found it much easier to get through this whole experience of being separated from your child and learning what to expect, through this website.
Once you find out your son's address at GrtLks, write to him very often. Keep your letters upbeat and positive. Encourage other family and friends to write to him too. His letters to you will be slow in coming, but keep writing! They are Very busy and don't have a lot of time to write. Our son has been in boot camp since 8 Dec and we've received about 3 or four letters and our first phone call last Saturday. They have to earn a phone call and you never know when that will happen although usually it comes in a weekend.
Your son has entered a new chapter in his life. I miss mine like crazy but am proud of his decision to join the Navy. We missed him a lot at Christmas. Yes, it's hard to go into his room and know he may only come home on leave for short periods but if that's what we get, we'll take it. You send them off with a good foundation, along with your love and prayers - that's all you can do - then continue to encourage and support them every step of their journey. Best of luck to your son and to you as well..
Warm regards

[Casey's mom]

Roguevalgal
Thank you so much for your words of encouragement. We just got back from watching him swear in. It was very hard to hold back the tears.
I actually do have a question. His recruiter told me yesterday that I can call her tomorrow and she will give me his address and graduation day. I met a few people today at swear in that told me that the graduation day may change in the next few weeks. Should I make my reservations or should I wait. And if I wait, what am I waiting for. When is it an absolute sure thing. Or will the recruiter be accurate. I don't know what to think. I was also told that some people have gotten the wrong address from the recruiter and had been mailing to the wrong address for weeks.
Help.
Thanks
Lisa

[lemonelephant]

Stay busy (take up something new or renew an old interest), get informed (Arrival and What Happens at the RTC is a good place to start) and stay connected with others who are going through the same things you are in your DEP group, in Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones), and in your PIR group once it is created.

Check your My Page.

[jbug]

Hi Casey's mom. My son left for basic training this past Wednesday as well. It has been very emotional. I have watched a few you tube videos on navy basic training which has helped. I'm counting the days until I see him at graduation. I'm sure when we are able to communicate with our sons by letter it will help.

[lemonelephant]

Counting Fridays may be easier on you than counting days until you get to the last week. For now, plan on 9 Fridays until you get the form letter and know the PIR date for sure. See Arrival and What Happens at the RTC within Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones).