Having a very hard time with DS going off to college

[ILUVALASKA]

We are heading to Pittsburgh (5 hr flight) next week to spend four days with our son over Parents' Weekend. He is still complaining of feeling ill with the breathing, so we may take him to a doctor on the Friday we are there. Looking forward to shadowing him in his classes now that he is in upper-division computer science. We will not be there for his birthday, so we will bring gifts with us. One tip-My son loves Harry and David Gift Baskets with the pears, so I ordered a super nice basket for his birthday. The kids who are a distance from grocery stores appreciate the fresh fruit! I will also bring a new umbrella. There was such a downpour of rain last week that his umbrella was destroyed!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[clh2]

OK - so I've been trying to find some things to send to DD - and I have found a new thing - as well as a favorite from last year:

The new one that I just found: It appears that the Popcorn Factory has a monthly sample that they will send out for $5.00 - which includes shipping. The sample flavor this month is jalapeno flavored: The link is:
jalapeno flavored popcorn

(I have not sent that one to DD - she wouldn't like the flavor. The flavor that they had last October was caramel apple - which DD would like - if they have that one again.)

The other idea for care packages is - Cheryl's Cookies. They have a $5 greeting cookie-card that you can send. Or - they have a 6-cookie sampler pack that they will send for $6.99.

Cheryl's Cookie Sampler

Or - their greeting cookie-card

DD loves the cookies.

There are many other things out there on the internet that would make great care packages, but not many for cheaper! And - if you are aware of any great ideas that aren't too much money - please let us all know!

Thanks!

 

[marcyinPA]

OK - so I've been trying to find some things to send to DD - and I have found a new thing - as well as a favorite from last year:

The new one that I just found: It appears that the Popcorn Factory has a monthly sample that they will send out for $5.00 - which includes shipping. The sample flavor this month is jalapeno flavored: The link is:
jalapeno flavored popcorn

(I have not sent that one to DD - she wouldn't like the flavor. The flavor that they had last October was caramel apple - which DD would like - if they have that one again.)

The other idea for care packages is - Cheryl's Cookies. They have a $5 greeting cookie-card that you can send. Or - they have a 6-cookie sampler pack that they will send for $6.99.

Cheryl's Cookie Sampler

Or - their greeting cookie-card

DD loves the cookies.

There are many other things out there on the internet that would make great care packages, but not many for cheaper! And - if you are aware of any great ideas that aren't too much money - please let us all know!

Thanks!

I had to laugh at the bolded, because my DS sent some brownies to his girlfriend for their one year anniversary (brownies are her "thing"- she LOVES them!!). He ordered them from Sugardaddies, which I guess has been endorsed by Ellen and Rachael Ray. Six brownies set him back $45 with shipping!! I didn't say a word- Thankfully, she loved them and was so surprised! He was really sad that they weren't going to be together for their anniversary and wanted to do something special. She is not into flowers at all, and balloons take up too much room in a dorm room. Food speaks to this girl!

I have only sent one package so far- and it was something he needed, but I included some photos which surprised him and he loved. I really need to send something else. He is only 40 minutes away, so I could seriously drive it down there faster- but I know how exciting it is to get mail when you are in college!

 

[mom2rtk]

I talked to my DS last night. He said he was just getting his voice back after being sick.

I sent my fourth package last week. First was the first week with some things from home he hadn't thought to bring. Next was the dress clothes he needed for Honors Forum. Third was the flip flops from home since the ones be brought had broken. Fourth was more OTC meds and comfort foods when he got sick.

I really don't mind a bit. I remember all those years ago how nice it was to get a package from home. Heck, I'm pretty much looking for ideas all the time for stuff to send him.

I like the popcorn idea, but my DS is not really an adventurous eater. I'm probably better off just shopping for treats I know he likes.

I'd love to hear ideas from others though. I'm trying to come up with ideas to put together a Halloween box of some sort. I thought it would be fun to send a couple decorations for the room or door, but am back and forth on whether that would be too dorky for a college guy....... I have totally embraced my inner dork. Just don't think my DS has done the same........

 

[RejoyceoverDisney]

OK - so I've been trying to find some things to send to DD - and I have found a new thing - as well as a favorite from last year:

The new one that I just found: It appears that the Popcorn Factory has a monthly sample that they will send out for $5.00 - which includes shipping. The sample flavor this month is jalapeno flavored: The link is:
jalapeno flavored popcorn

(I have not sent that one to DD - she wouldn't like the flavor. The flavor that they had last October was caramel apple - which DD would like - if they have that one again.)

The other idea for care packages is - Cheryl's Cookies. They have a $5 greeting cookie-card that you can send. Or - they have a 6-cookie sampler pack that they will send for $6.99.

Cheryl's Cookie Sampler

Or - their greeting cookie-card

DD loves the cookies.

There are many other things out there on the internet that would make great care packages, but not many for cheaper! And - if you are aware of any great ideas that aren't too much money - please let us all know!

Thanks!

Thank you for sharing this website!!! ( cheryls.com)
These prices are sooooo reasonable compared to others I've seen and the free shipping!! Wow.
Unfortunately I would not be able to surprise my son because he doesn't check his mail box and I would have to keep reminding him to do so and it kind of ruins the surprise.

BUT I definitely will be using this site soon. I've got Fall "hard to buy" birthdays coming up. And then of course Thanksgiving and Christmas this will come in handy for those that don't live near me.

 

[Arielle22]

I just made plans with my sister, friend, nieces and a nephew to go visit my DDs at college. We were going to have a female only weekend but my nephew wants to see his cousins.

The plan is to bring them to Super Wal-mart so they can stock up on food (neither likes the café) and take them out for a couple of good meals.

We sent care packages today with some homemade cookies and other snacks for them plus a DVD.

DH and I will go up for a day visit the first Saturday in November. The girls want to see us prior to our Disney trip. Then they will be home for Thanksgiving a few weeks later and before you know it, Christmas break!

 

[Crazie4daMouse]

Does anyone have any ideas for care packages for kids who can't eat junk food and candy? I need something high protein or not food related at all. My son's a wrestler and has to watch his weight constantly.

 

[HERSEY]

Does anyone have any ideas for care packages for kids who can't eat junk food and candy? I need something high protein or not food related at all. My son's a wrestler and has to watch his weight constantly.

How about Cliff bars or another protein bar. Nuts are another good snack for recovery after a work out. I have been racking my poor brain, my son has been lifting. Let me think some more, I'll remember all my nutrition info.

 

[HERSEY]

Funny how we all are thinking about care packages. I have been collecting things to bring down on Family Weekend.

I have been looking all over Pinterest for ideas. I think I may make and freeze some calzones so he can defrost and warm in the microwave. I'll also make him his favorite porcupine meatballs. While not care package type items he will appreciate having the food for when the weather turns. I may hit Eli's outlet for a cheesecake.

 

[LisaR]

Does anyone have any ideas for care packages for kids who can't eat junk food and candy? I need something high protein or not food related at all. My son's a wrestler and has to watch his weight constantly.

I haven't sent DD a single care package....well, at least not one in the traditional sense. She doesn't eat junk food or most candy. I made her two dozen muffins last time we went and froze them so she has those for breakfast a few mornings a week. I also made and froze some main courses so she is set with those. In addition, she has a Super Target less than 2 miles from campus, a car, and our money! I really can't think of a whole lot to send her.

I do send her a card once a week to let her know I am thinking about her and I write encouraging messages in them. I ordered her a Tervis Tumbler with her school name on it and sent it to her. I have a box of Halloween decorations, but I plan on taking those to her when we go visit. Basically, my kid is deprived in the care package department!

 

[marcyinPA]

OK - so I've been trying to find some things to send to DD - and I have found a new thing - as well as a favorite from last year:

The new one that I just found: It appears that the Popcorn Factory has a monthly sample that they will send out for $5.00 - which includes shipping. The sample flavor this month is jalapeno flavored: The link is:
jalapeno flavored popcorn

(I have not sent that one to DD - she wouldn't like the flavor. The flavor that they had last October was caramel apple - which DD would like - if they have that one again.)

The other idea for care packages is - Cheryl's Cookies. They have a $5 greeting cookie-card that you can send. Or - they have a 6-cookie sampler pack that they will send for $6.99.

Cheryl's Cookie Sampler

Or - their greeting cookie-card

DD loves the cookies.

There are many other things out there on the internet that would make great care packages, but not many for cheaper! And - if you are aware of any great ideas that aren't too much money - please let us all know!

Thanks!

I want to thank you for posting those links! I just ordered my DS the cookie sampler. It is due to arrive on Friday. I think he will be surprised!

I am going to attempt to order the cookie card for his girlfriend, just to let her know I'm thinking about her.

ETA: I just sent the cookie sampler to his girlfriend. I wasn't sure if I could order that same thing twice, but it let me What a great little treat at an affordable price!!!

 

[LisaR]

DD just called. Instead of us going to see her on the 28th, she is coming home that Thursday - Sunday!!!!! She found someone who lives two hours north of us who will ride with her and her mom will pick her up from our place. That makes me even happier. The 3.5 hour drive has about 2 hours along a two lane road with nothing but farm land. Cell service is sporadic. I feel so much better that someone will be with her; not that this girl is a black belt or anything, but I just feel better knowing someone else is there. She has already requested certain foods for each day she will be here and has a list of food she wants me to make and freeze so she can take them home. That's my girl. It is all about the food!

 

[mom2rtk]

DD just called. Instead of us going to see her on the 28th, she is coming home that Thursday - Sunday!!!!! She found someone who lives two hours north of us who will ride with her and her mom will pick her up from our place. That makes me even happier. The 3.5 hour drive has about 2 hours along a two lane road with nothing but farm land. Cell service is sporadic. I feel so much better that someone will be with her; not that this girl is a black belt or anything, but I just feel better knowing someone else is there. She has already requested certain foods for each day she will be here and has a list of food she wants me to make and freeze so she can take them home. That's my girl. It is all about the food!

What an awesome surprise! My son's journey home from school sounds similar to your DD. Very spotty cell coverage, lots of winding 2 lane roads.

I'm curious if she has classes she's skipping on Friday. I'd love for my DS to get home one more time before Thanksgiving, but he has 2 classes on Friday, and I just don't know if it's a good idea to encourage him to skip them or not.

I'm curious..... several of you have mentioned freezing food to send. Do they have a big enough freezer in their room fridges? Or do they put it in a shared fridge? My son's school capped fridge sizes at 1.7 cubic feet, which left out anything with a usable freezer. And he just can't decide if he trusts everyone else on his floor enough to put much stuff in the shared fridge.

 

[LisaR]

What an awesome surprise! My son's journey home from school sounds similar to your DD. Very spotty cell coverage, lots of winding 2 lane roads.

I'm curious if she has classes she's skipping on Friday. I'd love for my DS to get home one more time before Thanksgiving, but he has 2 classes on Friday, and I just don't know if it's a good idea to encourage him to skip them or not.

I'm curious..... several of you have mentioned freezing food to send. Do they have a big enough freezer in their room fridges? Or do they put it in a shared fridge? My son's school capped fridge sizes at 1.7 cubic feet, which left out anything with a usable freezer. And he just can't decide if he trusts everyone else on his floor enough to put much stuff in the shared fridge.

No, I definitely wouldn't encourage DD to skip classes! Fortunately, she has a great schedule this semester. She only has classes M - W. One of her classes is online so she spends most of the day on Thursday and Friday studying for her other classes and doing her online class. Not a bad deal, eh? She does have three different group projects that she is currently working on for different classes. One group meets on Thursday mornings so she will leave after that, and another one meets on Sunday nights so she has to be back for that.

DD is in a kitchenette so she has a full size refrigerator in the common area of her dorm. There are three girls in total who share it and there is a ton of room.

 

[HERSEY]

mom2rtk At my son's school they have micro/frig combo. The freezer part is not huge,but I think it is big enough. The picture shows an edy's ice cream standing upright along with a bunch of other stuff. Before we found out about his room mate we went ahead and rented it. His room mate has one and my son has his. yeah it is overkill, but it is probably better this way.

I wish my son would find someone our way. I do have some miles rack up with United, but I am saving that for Christmas. I don't want to drive in the snow or ice.Yes I know I live in the Midwest but enough is enough

 

[marcyinPA]

mom2rtk At my son's school they have micro/frig combo. The freezer part is not huge,but I think it is big enough. The picture shows an edy's ice cream standing upright along with a bunch of other stuff. Before we found out about his room mate we went ahead and rented it. His room mate has one and my son has his. yeah it is overkill, but it is probably better this way.

I wish my son would find someone our way. I do have some miles rack up with United, but I am saving that for Christmas. I don't want to drive in the snow or ice.Yes I know I live in the Midwest but enough is enough

My son and his roommate shared the cost of one of these. They have not yet used the microwave. If I had known they wouldn't really use it, I would have just purchased a fridge and it would have cost me half of what we paid to rent this thing! At my DS's college, they can bring their own fridge, but they can't bring their own microwave. If you want a microwave, you need to rent the micro/fridge from the college. It was $200 for the year.

Now I just found out that my DS's roommate might be moving out! My DS was kind of upset about it- but I told him it might be a good thing, especially if they don't put anyone else in there this semester. But it could be bad if they just put someone random in there. Saying a prayer that everything works out!!!

 

[RejoyceoverDisney]

My son and his roommate shared the cost of one of these. They have not yet used the microwave. If I had known they wouldn't really use it, I would have just purchased a fridge and it would have cost me half of what we paid to rent this thing! At my DS's college, they can bring their own fridge, but they can't bring their own microwave. If you want a microwave, you need to rent the micro/fridge from the college. It was $200 for the year.

Now I just found out that my DS's roommate might be moving out! My DS was kind of upset about it- but I told him it might be a good thing, especially if they don't put anyone else in there this semester. But it could be bad if they just put someone random in there. Saying a prayer that everything works out!!!

My son's school provides a small fridge in the room but no microwaves allowed.
There is one in the common area as well as a full size fridge and stove. My son is good with that. He and his two roommates share the fridge in his room for cold drinks and keep a clear plastic storage tub of snacks under their beds. My son has not requested any food that needs refrigeration. Mac and cheese and ramon noodles seem to work for him and then of course he eats in the cafe and commuter cafe area.

I don't know if I said this but my husband and I were just discussing the maturity we saw this weekend in his brief visit (that he wasn't sleeping) and how responsible he talks. Very impressed and he's only been gone a month.
But again this is his second year at college and he is with 2 friends as roommates. The two guys he was with last year didn't really fit the friend criteria. They sort of co-existed with one roommate and then sort of friendly in common interest with the other.

Yes pray for your son's situation. God does have a plan and personal growth comes from these kind of experiences. Hoping for the best. It sounds like your son definitely deserves that. Praying with you for your son.

Have a day.

60 days to go before my vacation. I'm getting excited again.

 

[mom2rtk]

No, I definitely wouldn't encourage DD to skip classes! Fortunately, she has a great schedule this semester. She only has classes M - W. One of her classes is online so she spends most of the day on Thursday and Friday studying for her other classes and doing her online class. Not a bad deal, eh? She does have three different group projects that she is currently working on for different classes. One group meets on Thursday mornings so she will leave after that, and another one meets on Sunday nights so she has to be back for that.

DD is in a kitchenette so she has a full size refrigerator in the common area of her dorm. There are three girls in total who share it and there is a ton of room.

What a dream schedule for a freshman! We had trouble just getting my son into the classes he needed this semester. He really had no choice at all for dates and times. Some kids were getting completely shut out of some classes. But having Friday classes just makes it so hard for him to get home. I'm just not sure if it's worth it for a day and a half at home.

mom2rtk At my son's school they have micro/frig combo. The freezer part is not huge,but I think it is big enough. The picture shows an edy's ice cream standing upright along with a bunch of other stuff. Before we found out about his room mate we went ahead and rented it. His room mate has one and my son has his. yeah it is overkill, but it is probably better this way.

I wish my son would find someone our way. I do have some miles rack up with United, but I am saving that for Christmas. I don't want to drive in the snow or ice.Yes I know I live in the Midwest but enough is enough

My son's school provides each room with a small fridge. But the freezer section is teeny tiny, just a few inches tall. Definitely not enough room to store much of anything. It worked to put in a few of the freezer pops I sent last week, but not much else. We would have bought a fridge, but the 1.7 cubic foot limit sort of makes it hard to find anything with a bigger freezer anyway. They are allowed to have a microwave, but without a freezer, it sort of loses most of its benefit, especially when there's a microwave in the common area.

My son and his roommate shared the cost of one of these. They have not yet used the microwave. If I had known they wouldn't really use it, I would have just purchased a fridge and it would have cost me half of what we paid to rent this thing! At my DS's college, they can bring their own fridge, but they can't bring their own microwave. If you want a microwave, you need to rent the micro/fridge from the college. It was $200 for the year.

Now I just found out that my DS's roommate might be moving out! My DS was kind of upset about it- but I told him it might be a good thing, especially if they don't put anyone else in there this semester. But it could be bad if they just put someone random in there. Saying a prayer that everything works out!!!

Wow, that was quick. And unsettling. Just when you think everything should be getting a bit settled..... Fingers crossed that he gets a good replacement, or no replacement at all!

 

[LisaR]

My son and his roommate shared the cost of one of these. They have not yet used the microwave. If I had known they wouldn't really use it, I would have just purchased a fridge and it would have cost me half of what we paid to rent this thing! At my DS's college, they can bring their own fridge, but they can't bring their own microwave. If you want a microwave, you need to rent the micro/fridge from the college. It was $200 for the year.

Now I just found out that my DS's roommate might be moving out! My DS was kind of upset about it- but I told him it might be a good thing, especially if they don't put anyone else in there this semester. But it could be bad if they just put someone random in there. Saying a prayer that everything works out!!!

Ugh! Hope everything works out on the roommate front.

What a dream schedule for a freshman! We had trouble just getting my son into the classes he needed this semester. He really had no choice at all for dates and times. Some kids were getting completely shut out of some classes. But having Friday classes just makes it so hard for him to get home. I'm just not sure if it's worth it for a day and a half at home.

The number one single biggest advantage of the honors program at DD's school: they register first!! Makes for a very nice schedule!

 

[mom2rtk]

The number one single biggest advantage of the honors program at DD's school: they register first!! Makes for a very nice schedule!

I wish my son's school did this. It would sure be nice. So far he only sees his honors program as more work!

Of course our biggest problem so far has been that my son is the sort to take his time making big decisions. He didn't commit to this school until the very last day possible. Since enrollment happened at orientation and we were at one of the last orientations of the year, he was at a big disadvantage.

Fortunately I don't think he'll have any problem deciding on classes for next semester and should be quicker to schedule this time.