It's been 2 weeks and 6 days since Zach left for Boot Camp in Great Lakes. Thankfully, our girls have only had a few breakdowns. And they have occurred when he wasn't there for the first swim at Nana's and Papa's pool. He always had the honor of being the first one to jump in. This year, Isabella took over the tradition with Spunk proudly taking the second jump. And a few times, it's hit Isabella hard that Zachi won't be home for her birthday in August.
Here are our last photos with Zach taken just before the girls headed up the driveway to have Nana Day. Big Mama was doing okay keeping it together until Zach asked Isabella to take a photo of just the two of us.
So, Zach and I spent the day together until it was time to drop him off. His friend Kyle, who's been a friend since 1st grade and was the High School Valedictorian, was there to offer a handshake and a hug, too. I'm glad they still think it's cool to hang out together.
And yep, that's me with a terribly strained "smile" as Isabella proudly takes a photo of us with Mommy's camera. Which I wrapped around her twice since it's heavy. Anyway. A departure from my happy Sunday Photos. I hope we get a letter from him soon.
Oh, Monika - I'm tearing up just reading this. God bless your boy - I'm sure you will here from him soon :)
ReplyDeletesweetie, i wish i could be there to give you a hug ♥
ReplyDeleteI've hardly commented on your blog before today but these photos and your words had me teared up too. I clearly remember our son driving down the driveway, more than 15 years ago (when did that happen??!!) , on his way to play junior hockey for a year and how very hard it was to say goodbye. ((( HUGS ))) Being a mama is gut wrenching sometimes :) I hope the letter comes soon!
ReplyDeleteI hope you get a letter soon! It's so hard to say goodbye and not be able to touch them all the time. I'm so sorry for Isabella that Zach won't be there for her birthday, my oldest was away at college on my 10 year old's birthday and it made her so sad (which just breaks a mommy's heart). I'm sure you'll make her birthday fun.
ReplyDeleteOh Monika, as the mother of a teenage son, it's with a tear in my eye that my heart goes out to you. I dread the day...
ReplyDeleteHi Monika I read your post and I have a tear in my eye and for sure my heart is with you .
ReplyDeleteThis is my first time in here..and I love evrything in here.
I wish so many good thinks for you and Goog Bless you!!!
Kisses and huges from Brazil
Cynthia
After reading this, I flash forwarded 10 years into the future when this will be my boys. My thoughts and prayers are with you. There is no strength like a mother's strength.
ReplyDeleteWhat beautiful children! You must be so very proud of your son. He looks like a very nice young man.
ReplyDeleteI hope you get a letter soon too. I know this has been hard for you, you're in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteI feel your pain.
ReplyDeleteHang in there Monika!
Sending you all my love,