Last week was amazing. Dan took of work so we were able to spend time with all our family & friends. Of course we got some alone time in too which was much needed. We felt like royalty eating out so much and everyone wanting to host us. We really enjoyed our quality time with everyone and was so thankful to have so much support.
Sunday was 9/11/11 this was an incredibly challenging day for me personally not just because of the anniversay of the attacks but I would also be dropping Dan off with his recruiter who would then drive him down to MEPS. Once Dan got to San Diego he had a lot of processing to take care of and stayed the night in a hotel. I really thought our private goodbye would be much harder but I think I handled my emotions very well. I didn't really want to be around anyone. Sometimes it is best for me to just process everything alone and then connect with everyone. I also didn't want to go straight home so what did a mom do? Grocery shopping LOL It was nice to feel some normalcy immediately after saying goodbye. I knew however in the back of my mind that this wouldn't be the final goodbye. I would be seeing him the next day at his swaring in ceremony along with immediate family who were able to go. I was honestly dreading it. I kept thinking I should have said my final goodbye already so I didn't feel like I was dragging it out.
Monday morning came and everyone was on time at our meeting location to carivan down to San Diego to see Dan sware in. We hit the worst traffic ever! Of course there would be a hazardous spill on the freeway. We finally arrived and it was a smooth transition through metal detectors, scanners, sign in sheets and then there he was! My husband and soon to be soldier. It was so great to see him and I instantly knew I made the right decision in coming. Not just because he wanted me too but it was so great to support him and see him on this day. The person in charge ushered us into the ceremony room where he allowed us because we had such a large group to take pictures privately. Soooo cool! No videos were allowed during the ceremony but I did take pictures. :) I will add some below. After the ceremony we were able to follow Dan into the cafeteria where he ate lunch and all visit a bit longer. We were able to stay a good hour and then everyone said their goodbyes. We had a private momment and I was off. It was so nice to have family with me and we all went to lunch afterwards to celebrate. Aiden who was quite cranky by this point slept the whole ride home! Dan stayed longer to do more processing and then stayed at the same hotel a second night. The Sgt told them to enjoy this night of rest in a comfy bed because the next 3 days they would have no sleep.
Tuesday is here. I awoke to a phone call at 5am from Dan giving me information regarding when he was leaving and flight stuff. I had nightmares last night and Redlands also had thunderstorm and showers this morning... So strange. Dan said it was just the enemy and that everything would be okay. He was right. His flight got off and as I type they are getting ready to land. He will be bussed to Fort Benning where it will all begin. At this point I am not sure when I will be able to talk to him. He should be able to call saying he got their okay etc but the drill sgt's will confiscate all phones and reward them with calls as time progress'. I should get his address within a week or two and anyone can write. I do ask that no one sends care packages as the drill sgts will make him do quite a bit of work to "earn them". I will post it on facebook when I have it! :)
Thank you to EVERYONE for your support through out this process. Moments are challenging but we are so excited for the future. So proud of my soldier! HOOAH!
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