What if...?

[Aaron's mom]

This past week, I stayed very busy. I had workshops for my job, and then I went out of town with my mom for a couple of days. By the time I took time to breathe, the week was gone. My Aaron will be leaving for Great Lakes in a few short weeks. If I don't stay busy, I dwell on the fact he is leaving. If I do stay busy, time flies too quickly. It's kind of a "darned if I do, darned if I don't" situation.
This week should be fun. I am still getting the finishing touches for Aaron's party next weekend. I ordered his cake yesterday. It is going to be adorable! It will look like his blue sailor suit. Since he graduates in October, he will be in blues. We have tons of friends and family coming by to wish him luck. If I can keep from crying, it should be a great party.


I have met a super mom here on Navy for Moms. Her son leaves the same day as mine. I love that I am not alone in my journey. It is strange how sometimes, I feel like I am a very unique individual. As I read and listen to other moms, I find we are all very much the same. We share so many varying emotions. Of course we are all proud of our children for making this decision to serve. I also have fears for the what ifs? What if he gets there and is miserable? What if he hates it? What if he gets sick? What if, what if, what if.... What if he absolutely loves it? what if he hardly ever comes home again? What if he moves to Japan? I could go on for days with this game. What if does me no good in my emotional journey. Other emotions are just dealing with my mostly empty nest. Fortunately, my older son Adam comes home at least one time per month. I hope he gets used to the smothering mothering he may get while he is home!
Since Aaron just graduated from high school, I am trying to view his leaving as many other moms see their children going off to college to an out of state school. It is basically like that for the time frame. He just won't get holidays and spring break to come home. I know he will eventually get leave. I know I will see him. I know I will get used to this. I am thankful for all of my friends, family, and fellow moms who will be there to help me learn how to have grown children. He is doing what all moms hope their kids do; he is growing up to be an independent man who can take care of himself and others. He will be a world traveler. He will become financially secure. He will be a terrific addition to the world.
What if this Navy adventure turns out to be the best thing he could ever hope for?

[Momof3kidz(IT)]

Well said.  You just repeated exactly how I feel!  He's been gone for 1 1/2 weeks and I still have all the same questions.  I can't wait for a real letter where he's able to answer at least one of those questions. 

[mom4life]

The waiting for them to go can believe it or not be harder then once they leave. It seems like all your emotions start building and compile for that big day of departure. Hang in there once he's off it will get easier because you will know his journey has begun and he is fullfilling his dream and his commitment. Our son begins his 4th week already and it has flown!!! Mom4life

[Aaron's mom]

Very encouraging to read that time flies while they are gone. I will be at school the week after he leaves, so I am sure my little second graders will keep me busy. Thank you. You have made my day!