This first timer gets the feeling that the "portal" is a rather new phenomenon. As a member of the class of 94AD, I can't recall waiting by the mailbox. However, I'm glad that I didn't suffer from the curse of the portal obsession. Even way back then the BFE did exist. I got a call from Mom while at a team sleepover when the BFE arrived. DS has settled into a once a day routine where he checks his "status"at USNA, USMMA, and DoDMERB. I am sure that every parent here has discussed...
curious...portal/BFE
curious...portal/BFE