And so it begins

Today officially  makes the ten week mark of my boy leaving for the Army. I can honestly say it has been one heck of a roller coaster ride. It is amazing as to what I have learned in the past 10 weeks.

Never think that you will know everything that will happen. I thought I knew what was going to happen and when... HAHA ... that is so far from reality. I am going to start this blog out with the beginning. My story may be a little different that some of yours because my son is Infantry and in OSUT(basic training and AIT all in one. 14 weeks strait through.)

When my SIT(soldier in training) left for basic training I had been researching everything and thought I had a time line. When they first leave they go to reception. This is where they get that fresh hair cut, all of there uniforms and actually anything they need. We wasted time shopping for  items that he had to purchase there. Some parents get calls right away, this mom did not. He was at reception for 4 days before I heard from him. But let me tell you that was the one of the best phone calls in my life. He was doing well and learning to get yelled at and hurry up and wait. He remained in reception for 10 days. I only knew that he shipped at 4 am on the 10th day because someone seen his snap chat. I was an emotional disaster to say the least. I started reaching out to parents for any kind of support and knowledge I could get. Army moms and families understand what you are going through. I thought I knew. I had friends kids join the military and felt sad for them......but i did not understand. I had no idea the sense of pride, sadness, worry, frustration and joy that moms feel. Now I know and will use my knowledge to educate and support our military family.

While he was in reception I received two letters. I think I carried them with me for days. I can't really remember it's a bit of a blur. We can not write them in reception and can only write after we get an address roster number and platoon. The address is very long. I printed labels, This makes your life much easier.

Im going to end today's post at that.  Remember to make sure to look for next weeks post.  Im looking forward to telling you all about the Army Mom Quad Squad.