Ship Selection... it's like a combination of the NFL draft, the Oscars, and The Price is Right rolled into one awesome event! CoVid has families watching virtually, but it is exciting nonetheless. Firsties that have been assigned to the Surface Warfare community will choose their ships and their life for the foreseeable future, and this …
The Pandemic that Didn’t Steal Christmas
Some thoughts as Mids begin to travel home. Time. It is precious. It is non-renewable. It is fleeting. It is a gift. If anything, this year has reminded me that time with family, whenever and how ever it comes, is a priority and a blessing. And I am so happy for all of our USNA …
So Close and Yet So Far
With so many things being different this year because of Corona virus, the ACyear begins very differently. Sadly, as with all other classes at USNA, highlights of the journey like PPW and 2/C Parents Weekend have been set aside for the safety of Plebes, Midshipmen, staff, faculty, and leadership on the Yard. I have to say that I am very proud of our USNA parents...
The Plebe Summer Challenge
As I have mentioned before and talk about in my book, A USNA MOM'S JOURNAL, when our USNA journey began I was feeling sad, empty, and felt like crying for no reason. In a way, as parents, we are grieving the sudden separation.... We have given our most treasured possession to USNA. There are so …
How time Flies! One Week Down
ONE WEEK DOWN and so many of you are probably glued to your computers trying to catch a glimpse of your Plebe. Many parents may feel like they have a "hole in their heart" and find that the separation has been much harder than expected. Some may be rethinking this Academy thing.... Know that you …
Beyond I-Day and into Plebe Summer
As you begin your journey, I am sure that you have lots of questions. I know that our family certainly did and we were so fortunate as to have many experienced mentors that came alongside us to help prepare our family for the big day. I will try to post once or twice per week …
What?… Four I-Days?
Some things change and some stay the same... I-Day marks the beginning of the unique journey that is USNA. It is an emotional day for both parent and incoming Plebe and also marks the beginning of a rollercoaster of emotions that make the journey unique. It is designed to train our young men and women …
Shifting Perspectives and Semper Gumby
You may or may not find that your Plebe-to-be has become very introspective, quiet, perhaps withdrawn or even downright argumentative or moody. I can tell you that it is a normal reaction. They have the weight of their decision on their shoulders right now as they prepare to embark on their journey, and the seriousness …