Decisions, Decisions!

Well it is amazing how fast things can change! 8 weeks ago, when Dominic was still in bootcamp, he had written us a letter telling us that when he got to write down his choices of where he would like to be stationed he was putting Dover, Delaware down as his first choice and Virginia as his second choice. His dad told him he was surprised as one of the reasonings that Dominic gave us for choosing the Navy was because he wanted to travel and see the world. And now, because he was so homesick and totally hated anything that had to do with the Navy, during his first few weeks in Great Lakes, he was choosing a base which was close to home. I of course, knowing how homesick he was and knowing I would get to see him often, was happy he was choosing a base close to home!

As days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months, I am amazed at the transformation that has taken place with my youngest son Dominic. When Dom called home about three weeks ago he, once again, talked to us about his choices for bases to be stationed. Very confidentantly he told us that he was contemplating putting Italy down as his first base. I was shocked. He said the only problem, besides missing the family so much, he was concerned with the price of airfare - since the sailors would always have to pay 1 way. He said he would be afraid that he wouldn't be able to get home enough when he had scheduled leave due to lack of money to pay for the airfare. Although I was still partially speechless, I told him that he would never, ever have to worry about the cost of airfare, that whenever he would be able to come home, we would always find a way to get the money together for him to travel. Well his next call he told us that he put in for Italy as his first choice and Spain for his second choice. I didn't get real panicked because after talking to alot of people, I was informed that sailors usually do not get their preferred choices - due to so many requests. Although I loved the idea of Dominic traveling - which was his wish - I really didn't want him to be stationed in Europe. Eight weeks ago, being stationed overseas, was one of the reasons he didn't follow through with the SWCC - as he couldn't imagine choosing to be so far from home.

Well, surprise, Dominic called last week and was ecstatic and overjoyed! I hadn't heard him this excited in ages. He announced that he received his shipout orders and he will be heading to Italy - SICILY - for two years, shore duty! Just hearing his excitement, do you know I was immediately jumping for joy when he gave me the news. I thought at this time I would have fallen apart, when my baby told me he would be going to Europe for two years! But, ironically, it was the complete opposite! My heart was seriously exploding from excitement and happiness for Dominic. He was just freaked that he got Sicily, as he had also heard that it is very rare you get your first choice. He called a few times that day, and we talked all about him traveling to Sicily and how wonderful it was going to be. His mind was working a million miles a minute. Again, I haven't heard him this excited in a very, very long time!

And here we are, spreading the word of his plans, and even making our own plans for Sicily! Dominic will be finishing "A" school by the end of May and coming home for 21 days!!! Now that the excitement of his great news is wearing off - now he is just excited to get home for his extended liberty! All he can talk about now is the "kick-ass" BBQ we will be having when he returns. He is spreading the word - like wildfire! Gosh, I haven't felt this happy inside, for my son Dom, in a very long time! He is confident, positive, brave, and standing on his own. Relief, again, sets in! I know I am putting the day he leaves for Italy on the back burner, and I refuse to think about how my heart is going to be ripping out when I say goodbye! I am not going to think of that now - only the positive things!

Also wanted to mention - that Freddy had an operation on his hand and got a plate and 8 screws put in. The doctors are hoping for a full recovery with full movement of all his fingers. He is doing well and I LOVED taking care of him! I know by now he is getting tired of us pampering him and he needs to get back to his place!!! But I will take care of him as long as he wants!!!! God, at this moment, I really miss my two sons being little boys again. When I used to be able to kiss all their tears and fears away, when we used to stay in and watch TGIF and make milkshakes on Friday nights! Oh well, life goes on...