Where did the years go? As I sat in church Sunday next to my 20yo son and the pastor asked "Where were you 10 years ago?" I nearly burst into tears. You see, 10 year old boys are my favorite! And 10 years ago I was enjoying my first 10yo son. We had a military themed birthday for him, never imagining.
Yesterday was bittersweet. My last sight of my son is etched into my memory. Can't believe I didn't think to pull the cell phone out and snap a shot. He's wearing his notorious ball cap, bill curved and punctuated with a red, white and blue fish hook. The ball cap of choice this time is a USMC one--black. His ordinary jeans were paired with a gray t-shirt and a black and white block-print, button-down shirt. If I think about it, I can even smell him. He was standing in line among other recruits all waiting to enter the cafeteria and find ways to keep themselves occupied during the next 2 hours at which time they would load a bus headed to Parris Island, SC. He gave me one of his typical smiles--he has the best smile--and waved while announcing he'd see me in 13 weeks.
I'm so proud.
I held off the tears until we were out of the MEPS building.
I hurried the entire 9 hour trip home. I was there in plenty of time to receive his scripted phone call. It was 10 seconds long. He sounded great. I know he'll do great.
13 weeks. I think the kids and I will make a chain.
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