Families of Prisoners Support Group
This community is dedicated to families that have been disrupted by prison. Having a loved one incarcerated or having been incarcerated comes with its own unique challenges that require support and understanding. Join the group to find others who know what you're going through, and to seek advice or share your experience.
My first visit to see my 29 year old daughter at the federal prison camp went well. It was just about like everyone described. The weather was really nice so we were allowed to set at picnic tables outside under big oak trees and walk around. The guards checking us in we're friendly.
The vending machines did empty like you all described. This was weird, I had a clear bag full of quarters but then we found out my husband was allowed to take in his wallet and use a credit card in the machines.
Remember I was so worried about running out of things to talk about well that didn't happen. It's sad to think her going to prison has helped our relationship after so many years of us arguing.
It was interesting watching the little kids playing together like everything was normal. One of the women had several young children. When it was time to say goodbye a little boy about 6 or 7 had a melt down. He did not want to leave his mama. That broke my heart for both of them.
Leaving her there was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. The camp is so far away from us I don't know how soon we can afford to go again.
The vending machines did empty like you all described. This was weird, I had a clear bag full of quarters but then we found out my husband was allowed to take in his wallet and use a credit card in the machines.
Remember I was so worried about running out of things to talk about well that didn't happen. It's sad to think her going to prison has helped our relationship after so many years of us arguing.
It was interesting watching the little kids playing together like everything was normal. One of the women had several young children. When it was time to say goodbye a little boy about 6 or 7 had a melt down. He did not want to leave his mama. That broke my heart for both of them.
Leaving her there was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. The camp is so far away from us I don't know how soon we can afford to go again.
You said, "It's sad to think her going to prison has helped our relationship after so many years of us arguing."
That is so true with a lot of inmates and their families. Prison gives a person a lot----a whole lot---of time to think. Sometimes it seems as if that is all there is to do----think. Inmates have a lot of time to reflect on how they got there, what they want to do while they are there, and what they want to do with the rest of their lives after their release.
It also makes an inmate realize what IS and what IS NOT really important in life. Sometimes we chase the wrong goals to try to find happiness.
Prison, if an inmate uses his or her time wisely, can be a great time for self-reflection. And guess who was the first to come visit your daughter----it was her mother. That means a lot to your daughter and allows her to realize just how much you and family mean to her.
God Bless your family and your daughter,
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Hugs,
Pat