D-Day

Today was the day Charlie left for the Navy and the day I'm officially a Navy wife. In some ways, it was a very momentous day and in others, it couldn't have been more ordinary. I don't think we'll ever forget the date: January 1, 2011. 1-1-11! A new and exciting beginning for the Mallie's.

Several days ago I had asked Charlie if he wanted us all to go to the airport and see if we could get gate passes. He was fine with us all going but didn't want us to come to the gate. I think that was just as well. It probably would have only prolonged the misery for me. Ana didn't want to go. Nana stayed home with her, so it was Dante and I who took Charlie to the airport this morning.

The kids and I have dropped Charlie off at the airport so many times that it's a total non-event when we do. This time though, Dante started to panic when he saw that we were leaving Charlie behind. He asked, "Where's Dad?!" I reminded him that he "went to the Navy". He cried and said, "I want to go to the Navy too!" He made me think that he really understands more than I give him credit for. He knew that this time was different than all of the others.

Dante and I were up half the night last night due to his constant coughing, so when we got home, we took a three-hour nap. We got up and got ready for a college graduation party for our good friend. We have a lot that will keep us very busy in the next few weeks. I am very thankful for that. The party was just what I needed. It was wonderful spending time with so many good friends and eating the best barbecue in all of Texas.

When we returned from the party, Dante saw Charlie's car in the drive way. He shouted, "I hope Dad's playing a video game." I guess he forgot Dad is gone for a while. I'm sure that will be happening to all of us from time to time.

Ana is more pensive and reserved about it all. She has stated several times that "it's a bad day". I know she misses him very much. We were spoiled by just how much time we were used to spending with him. More than most dads, I'm sure. She loves art and being creative, and it is a great outlet for her. She threw herself into her latest medium (melty beads) and made him a special gift to take with us to Rhode Island next month.

I talked to Charlie on the phone twice today. The first time we talked, he was taking the shuttle from the airport to post. It was a quick conversation. The second time he called was from his new room. I got a few details about his situation such as the bathrooms/showers are down several hallways and are dorm-style bathrooms. He didn't get to eat supper. There were no restaurants on post and the mess hall (wardroom?) was closed by the time he got there.

He said he was lonely. That really made me cry after hanging up. I know he's doing all of this for us and we appreciate it more than he'll ever know.

I can scarcely believe I'm posting this picture. I think it is a great one of everyone else. I also think I look a look more pathetic that I was actually feeling. I was sad though. :(

Here is one of Charlie and his mom. I know she's certainly proud of her son. We're so glad she's going to be staying with us for a couple of weeks while we adjust to Daddy's absence.