Now that you have re-established communications with your Plebe, you may need a Navy dictionary... SIQ, MOS, MOOW, bulkhead, deck, ladders... what??? I know that at first I had to stop my first Plebe to ask what things meant and I have to say that he was very patient. We laugh about it now, but …
“Live Like Duke”
Remembering a Remarkable Life | Episode 24 In my book, A USNA Mom's Journal, I discuss how as MidMoms and MidDads, we revel in the joys of Academy life and the triumphs of our children. We suffer their disappointment which inevitably comes along when things don't quite go their way. Our kids have more responsibility …
Almost Four Weeks Down – You’re almost there!
Almost FOUR weeks down and PPW is creeping closer! What to expect? Many Plebes will be acclimated by now, some may still be struggling, but do not be dismayed parents, the Academy has all eyes and ears out, and they are dutifully coming alongside everyone that may need extra encouragement. As I discuss in my …
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Finally! Advice for the N*avy Dad Journey
I have been mentoring N*avy parents since 2013 but have focused on Moms - they usually seem to ask the questions and search for information. Dads are involved too, but differently from Moms. From my personal experience, we Moms tend to wear our hearts on our sleeve, where Dads may tend to be more reserved. …
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‘Twas the Night Before I-Day…
I remember it so vividly... the night before I-Day Our day began at our favorite restaurant for breakfast on I-Day Minus One. We spent it together as a family, walking around Annapolis to get oriented. We went to the Yard to choose the spot where we would meet after the Swearing-In. Just after noon our …
A Journey’s End: Finding a New Purpose
Changing Roles, Tiger Cruises, and More This Mother's Day is the first without my Mom and this has led to much introspection as we arrive at Commissioning Week. As Moms and Dads we have a definite purpose - to raise our kids, take care of our families, and manage our careers to allow for the …
Some thoughts on Commissioning
Some thoughts on the upcoming Commissioning for my fellow Warrior Parents. I am definitely a list person, so as we got closer to Commissioning Week, I began a check list to make sure nothing slipped through the cracks. Commissioning can be a very overwhelming affair and some people (like me the first time around!) can …
Words for the Journey with Steve Wade | Podcast Episode 16
There is something special about the Navy journey that affects us all as parents. It changes us from the inside out and we are never the same once those bronze doors close on I-Day. We are privileged to have access to our Mids - more than Air Force, West Point, or even Coastguard. The Naval …
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Who Said It gets Easier?
Wait, It Was Me, and Boy Was I wrong! Saying goodbye is a constant as a USNA parent. Goodbye on I-Day, at PPW, every time we visit, the few times they get to visit us, and so on. As time goes on, it does get a bit easier to say goodbye, but at some point, …
Planning Commissioning in the Midst of the Unknown
For Firstie Parents - waiting to hear what the final decision on Commissioning Week schedule is disconcerting. Trust me - I know! Our now ENS was in the Class of 2020: the first class to ever have the distinction of having commissioned virtually. Waiting was the hardest part. Accepting the decision was the next hardest …
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