Shmoopy McPeePants - For Real?

No your eyes are not failing. These pictures ARE tiny. But I HAD to include them. Last night, while trying to decide what picture to use on this mornings blog (yes, I actually DO give that some thought!) I decided to GOOGLE the word shmoopy. (why, I don't know - just humor me) I assumed (stupidly) that I wouldn't get any hits. Boy was I wrong! The first picture of the dog popped up right away because his name is Shmoopy McPeePants! And he happens to be a dachshund!! I almost fell over. Is that a coincidence or what? The poor dog looks clinically depressed but with a name like McPeePants, can you blame him??? The second picture I included MERELY because it offended me and I decided I had to take a stand! Can you imagine someone declared SOMEWHERE in this world a Shmoopy Free Zone? (violators will be flogged) I was incensed! They better hope CJ NEVER gets near that place - he will kick their shmoopy hating butt all over the place! (or I'll meet him there and kick it myself!)

John got a letter from CJ yesterday. It wasn't necessarily an upbeat letter. It was filled with intense worry that he won't pass his next red line inspection and his "plan" if he gets sent home. You could tell how homesick and anxious he was about the constant possibility that he could get booted out. He actually said that as he was writing, 3 airman were being "out processed." The letter's overall tone was just down. Left a "pit" feeling in our stomachs and made us REALLY wish we could talk to him.

Wanna guess who called while we were out running errands? Connor said he sounded great and that he was THRILLED to get to speak to him. I asked Connor why CJ was able to call and he said that "CJ called just to check on him!" (thanks CJ - those words meant a lot to your little bro) I asked Connor if CJ would call later but he didn't know. We were bummed but happy he got to speak to Connor. ( I hate missing calls!)

Wanna guess (again!) who called back? :-) He sounded really good. (much better than in the letter) Said that he had passed both red line inspections and his physical so that he was basically all set. He sounded relieved - said he was homesick but that he is still kicking butt. He told John that when all his training is done, he will be stationed in Georgia. (that's not so far away!) He asked us to try to get in touch with Tristen as he had not yet been able to talk to her (cell phone issues on her end) I did call her later that night and we had a great conversation. She gave me her home phone number to give to CJ and told me to tell him to KEEP TRYING!!!

He said to PLEASE keep the mail coming. HE LOVES IT ALL!! He actually got 10 letters last night. (he got zero the night before!) I sent him more stamps and a new phone card today already. Hope he gets them soon as he is apparently running low on both!

Have a great day y'all! (y'all = the 4 regulars who bother to read my little blog!) :-)

WARNING!!!

In the spirit of responsible blogging, I feel it necessary (from time to time) to pass on a few words of wisdom. Only words of wisdom, not lectures - just things that I think CJ (if and when he gets to read this blog) and Connor should be told. (all y'all as well!) (Texas here I come!)

Today's words of wisdom are very simple.... DO NOT USE A WEED WHACKER WHILE WEARING FLIP FLOPS. I'm serious, don't do it. It's not smart, it's not safe and it's JUST NOT PRUDENT. I have the skin flap and a few less layers of toe nail to prove it. (and A LOT LESS toe nail polish!) It hurt - oh baby did it hurt. Trust me. NOT GOOD. And that was two days ago. I thought by now the pain would be gone. No way Jose! As the warm shower water struck my poor toe this morning, I was convinced that somehow John had rerouted our water supply to the local neighborhood volcano. I am CERTAIN that for a brief moment, molten lava oozed inside my toenail. Seriously, lava. REAL lava - not just your average generic lava. (and no, I don't REALLY know if we have a neighborhood volcano but if we do, John found it!)

Time to get off my soapbox - I hope y'all were paying attention. Let my gruesome interaction with the aforementioned weed whacker be a warning to y'all. And for Pete's sake (or for the love of Mike as John likes to say) WEAR CLOSED TOE SHOES!!! Jeesh, I feel much better. (well my toe doesn't but I won't go into that again!) :-)

No word from CJ all weekend. I really thought he might call yesterday but that didn't happen and no mail because of the holiday. I was sad. I still am sad but am trying to remain optimistic and upbeat. Today marks day 22 for CJ and I am SERIOUSLY impressed that he is conquering BMT. What a sense of accomplishment he must feel. (if his overworked, under slept body can still feel!) I know we feel it for him everyday. I can't wait to look him in the eye and tell him that in person. What an amazing moment that will be. (Note to self....bring Tissues)

****Can't end without taking a moment to say that looking good can (and does quite frequently) outweigh common sense. Gardening/yard work just looks BETTER while wearing cute flip flops. Bulky soiled gardening sneakers/shoes/clogs just don't make you feel attractive. And if you don't feel good about yourself, how can you POSSIBLY be expected to garden at your full potential? There, I said it.

Of course, that powerful argument really falls short coming from me cuz I don't know how to garden - I really don't - just ask my neighbors - they "somehow" ended up doing about 90% of my yard work this weekend. (Note to self #2...continue working on "I just don't know what I'm doing, this garden is sooo intimidating for one person, I wish someone would help little old me" face!) :-)

Kick Back and Relax

Happy Labor Day everyone. Time to kick back and relax. Think the military follows that same principal? Probably not - if they're ok with CJ spending Christmas day ALONE in the woods, they most assuredly don't care if he is running 8 miles today!

Not much going on in our house today. (John is on-call for work but hopefully won't be bothered) We are having a BBQ with our neighbors which is a pretty common occurrence. And yes, we really do enjoy spending time with all of them as often as we do. (someone at work asked me that!) They are just a great group of people and have become wonderful friends. Today's cookout even has a theme - Kabobs. We are off to Whole Foods in Portland later this morning to buy the mother load of kabobs. That store has a WALL O'KABOBS. It's truly impressive - actually the ENTIRE store is amazing and I highly recommend it

Didn't hear from CJ last night. Carried the phone around (as usual) but it never rang. Well, it did but it wasn't Texas calling! Miss hearing from him, miss seeing his smile and even miss (dare I say?) his world famous eye roll! NEVER thought I would say that! Will write to him later today and remind him that we will see him in ONLY 23 days. We are REALLY, REALLY excited!

Enjoy your day of leisure! :)

Airman Duck Reporting for Duty

Airman Duck was given to me by Mom during CJ's going away party. I think she intended for said duck to remind us of CJ while he is gone. (can't you see the similarities?) He has been sitting on our fireplace mantel keeping watch over our comings and goings. He IS really cute and really small and really unique - even small, he stands out in all his "yellowness."

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Not sure if it's due to his general anxiety over CJ's welfare OR his overall exhaustion from working full time again after 7 months of post surgical recovery OR simply his odd outlook on life, but John has decided that Airman duck needs to go on an adventure. He has suggested that we, as AD's(Airman Duck) guardians, should capture this adventure on film and that we should share this adventure on this blog (from time to time) so that CJ will know exactly what Airman Duck is up to. He has even decided that AD should join us on our trip to Texas. Not a bad idea but I think I'll make John pack him. Can you imagine how much fun it would be for John to explain AD at a Security Luggage check? "Why yes I AM a grown man - this duck really just represents my son!!" :-)

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With that said, please take a minute to familiarize yourself with the duck. I think it's safe to say that he WILL visit this blog again in the future. Where and when, I just can't predict. After all, one doesn't truly know how much adventure Airman Duck can handle!

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No letter yesterday but that's ok. CJ IS probably a little busy! Maybe next week...sigh......

We Love the US Postal Service!!

Another day, another letter. We are a happy little family! Yesterday's letter was crazy emotional, full of sentiment that neither John nor I ever thought we would hear. CJ has begun sharing thoughts about what was, what is and what's yet to be. We are so impressed at how he is expressing himself and are touched that he has chosen to share his thoughts with us. If this is any indication of the man he is becoming, we are all in for a PLEASANT SURPRISE. Thanks United States Air Force!

CJ "graciously" included a full page list of FOOD ITEMS HE WANTS AFTER BASIC. I'm not kidding - he filled an entire piece of college lined notebook paper with food he is craving. He told us that we should bring some of it to his graduation but then (this is the best part!) post the list on our fridge and pick from it later when sending him care packages!! How thoughtful is my son? :-)

The list is extensive but seems to have an overriding theme: SUGAR. He seems to want A LOT of candy and several different kinds of cookies. He also listed about 12 types of cracker and chips. The ONLY food item he listed happens to be one he WOULD NOT eat for us at anytime in the last 5 years minimum. Macaroni and Cheese has NEVER been something he craves. I think there is a strong possibility that one of his friends yelled that item out and CJ added it to his list by accident. I intend to ask when I see him cuz it's bugging me! :-)

CJ's letter came on US Air Force stationery. It was wonderful and strange to see all at once. Kind of makes it really REAL. Speaking of real....I checked CJ's military bank account yesterday (I told him I would) and he received his first payment from the United States Government. I sat and just stared at the entry, realizing that this is REALLY happening. CJ truly IS a member of the USAF. For at least six years. Wow.

He's already been gone 19 days and we leave to see him in 25 more. It's flying by and dragging all at the same time. Still can't wait to see him. I just want to hug him and say thanks for being my son. I always knew he had it in him to be a great kid.

Guess I just never realized that he was destined to be a great man too. :)

YIPPEE!!!!!!!

Today is a great day. Not only did we get mail from CJ yesterday, but he called last night TWICE!!! We were thrilled to just get letters - the calls were icing on the cake. He sounded pretty good. Less emotional than last time we talked which made us feel much better. And he didn't talk in warp speed - the conversation was almost normal. I didn't feel that he was particularly rushed. John spoke to him initially (I was out shopping) and then both Connor and I got to talk to him the second time.

Between the letters and the phone calls, there's lots to share:
*Basic training sucks (that seems to be a constant theme!)
*The TI's DO NOT scream at him 24/7 - they do scream but not much after 8PM
*He has made some great friends already - Ryan from Wisconsin and Heath from Maine (CJ and Heath shipped out/flew to Texas together)
*The emotional strain is the worst - when the TI's get in their face, they don't rush to leave (CJ's exact words)
*Flying to Texas was great although they had to sprint from 1 flight to the next (we had been curious about this part and just forgot to ask)
*HE IS WEARING GLASSES NOW!!!!!!! - his distant vision is apparently not great (news to us) - this was discovered on the shooting range - he says its ok though cuz he looks GOOD! - too bad the kid is so modest! :-)
*They jog 8 miles at a time
* He passed his big physical test - did all the sit ups and push ups needed and ran under the allotted time
*He already has a 4-pack and is working on getting 2 more!! (he wrote this on John's letter to make him jealous!)
*He has thought about quitting but then realized he would be stuck in Auburn forever - got his butt in gear after that (YEAH!!!)
*HE BEGGED TO HAVE EVERYONE WRITE TO HIM A LOT - he said mail call (at night) is SOOO IMPORTANT to him - sadly, last night he got nothing but the night before he got 7 letters (wish they would spread them out so he wouldn't have many ZERO LETTER nights)

Think that about does it. Oh wait, one more thing. (not putting a lot of weight into this yet but good to think of nonetheless) Right at the end our conversation, he QUICKLY added that he was told that after Tech School (right around the New Year) he will come home for 24 days!!!! How awesome would that be. Not sure if that is accurate but I'm keeping all my body parts (I know, TMI!) crossed just in case.

******John and I quickly figured out last night (based on the above statement) that CJ MAY very well be sitting in the woods of Washington State ALONE on Christmas Day. The last 19 days of CJ's tech school training consists of SURVIVAL TRAINING - 17 days on the ground, 2 in the water. If John and I counted correctly, Santa will have to visit CJ under a tree this year. :-(

Sad Eyes Say So Much....

Fenway misses her brother. It's obvious. No one can deny it. It's written all over her pathetically sad face. Have you seen a more depressed looking dachshund lately? (I think not) I tried to get Chauncey to show some emotion but the best I got out of him was his "I want a treat face!" He was not cooperating. Dachshunds can be so temperamental.

Didn't get another letter yesterday but wasn't upset. I am still riding high from my 1st letter on Tuesday. Tristen came by and picked up her letter - she looked happy to have it. She seems really sweet. It was nice to see her and briefly meet her friends. Her friends were pretty quiet which could mean they were horrified to meet me, "THAT woman is CJ's Mom?" or maybe they thought I looked mean/intimidating. Hope that wasn't the case - I wasn't feeling particularly cranky yesterday! :-)

We are missing CJ terribly. Wondering how he did in his red line inspection and hoping that he kicked ass. I meant to put more stamps in the letter I sent today but I forgot. I think he is about to run out. For some reason, CJ has been putting 2 stamps on every letter he sends. Not sure if he thinks he NEEDS 2 stamps or just wanted to be extra sure the letters arrive. I mentioned it to him in a letter a few days ago. I suggested that he doesn't need 2 stamps per letter (unless he is being told to do that - if that's the case, stamp away!) If anyone pops a letter into the mail today and happens to have a few extra 41 cent stamps lying around, feel free to send them along. I bet y'all have a few just collecting dust that you might be willing to part with!

After all the drama of picking a hotel in Texas, we MIGHT (might not) switch our reservations. Spoke yesterday to our friend Jamieson. He's currently a captain in the United States Air Force. He told us we are CRAZY to stay anywhere near the base. Said that we should ABSOLUTELY STAY ON THE RIVER WALK IN DOWNTOWN SAN ANTONIO. (all caps so you can sense the intensity of his words). Came home and told John what he said - now we don't know what to do. Ugh. It never ends.

Any chance the emotional stress I am dealing with re: hotels/planes/rental cars/etc is similar to what CJ is going through??? Yeah, I didn't think so. (and I just punched myself for even suggesting it) :)

He Survived Day One!

Well, he made it. And (sit down!) he didn't hate it! He said that he liked his teachers (all but Math) and that he was actually anxious to go to school today. As you can see from the 2 pics above, he DID smile just a little yesterday morning. I was surprised to see it when I uploaded the pictures onto the computer. I dropped him off this morning without any drama. It was nice - now if it just lasts!

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The other great news is that we got letters from CJ yesterday. Connor got one and John and I got one. He also sent letters to our house for Tristen and his friend DJ. Guess he didn't have their addresses handy when he wrote. Tristen is coming by the house today to pick hers up and Connor is supposed to tell DJ (when he sees him at school) that there is a letter for him.

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The letters were great. Hard to read in parts as he sounds slightly miserable but great to receive nonetheless. He says that they are up @ 4:30 and don't get to bed until about 11:00. He said that he has to eat in a 4-7 minute window which is hard to get used to and that he is physically working harder than he thought possible. He did say that the food is decent but drinking 6-8 canteens of water each day is not fun.

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The rest of letter was filled with emotions. He has obviously figured out that life at home wasn't as bad as he thought at one time - he apologized for EVER causing us problems, for being mean, for NOT repaying us for treating him like a prince. That last one made me smile - I think his overall exhaustion may be skewing his memory. I don't THINK John and I ever treated him like a prince. We obviously just treated him nicer than Technical Sergeant Eaton is treating him. He also apologized for not telling us he loves us often enough. He said he is terribly homesick and that he misses Connor a ton.

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I can't wait to see him. I miss him. :-(

Dachshund Collecting Revisted

Stress makes me do it. No other explanation. I get stressed and worried about CJ and then decide the answer to all my worries is more doxies. Meet my newest project. Just like last time, I need to FIND this guy first. I stumbled on his pic and now need to locate him. Can you blame me? Did you LOOK at that face? John is still LESS THAN PLEASED with this idea. I fear that he may never jump on board the GOOD SHIP WIENER DOG! I'll try to wait him out until he breaks from my persistent begging. Until then, I'll keep hunting for the "elusive perfect wiener." ( I know, sounds perverted but what can I do?)


Actually got my first envelope from CJ yesterday. I almost started crying when I saw his handwriting. I even called Connor into into the kitchen so we could open it together. Wasn't quite what I had hoped for. I was looking for a hand written letter from our eldest child HOPEFULLY telling us how much he missed us, how he's doing, if he's eating, etc... What we got were 3 parking passes to Lackland AFB and a brochure listing the surrounding hotels that offer discounts to military families. All good stuff but not what we have been waiting for.


I mailed another letter to him today telling him AGAIN how seriously proud we are of him. I also told him that so many people are pulling for him and keeping him in their prayers. (so please keep that up!) As a sidebar item, please keep Connor in your thoughts as he starts High School today. He's nervous and would have loved a little brotherly advice/guidance right about now. Hopefully, CJ's friends will help him get adjusted and keep an eye on him. (I mean you DJ!)

Connor's friend Charles got dropped off here this morning so they could walk to school together. Connor was happy about that. Today is only for Freshman which should make the adjustment a little easier. I took a couple of pics of the happy students. (happy=miserable) I'll add them to tomorrows blog since they are FAR LESS CUTE than the dog up above (Connor and Charles sure know how to scowl!) Not sure I got even 1 picture of Connor smiling since he likes to make that "I'm wearing all black, I'm not into this SCHOOL thing, Mom leave me alone" face.

I'm home today because I have to have a test done at the hospital and the stuff I have to drink is making me sick to my stomach. Another fun day in the life of the Twomey's!

**Remember to send CJ positive thoughts. Today is the big inspection he was worried about. :)

Reality Bites

We heard from CJ last night and he was sad....and emotional...and obviously homesick. We were so thrilled (and shocked) that he called again so soon, but were really shaken up after the call. He said it is so hard - not physically but psychologically. I think "reality" has sunk in. We all knew it would happen but that doesn't make it any easier to hear. He spoke INCREDIBLY fast. It didn't appear that anyone was rushing him off the phone - I think the fast pace was more the result of stress, anxiety and emotions.
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We all got to talk to him (including Connor) which was nice. CJ said that he is the postmaster for his flight and that he has finally started getting mail. He told me all the names of the people that had sent him letters so far. (thank you so much to those that have written) He said mail was SO VERY important to him. He also said that he had started writing back to people. After hearing the sadness in his voice, I am more resigned than ever to keep the letter-a-day campaign going strong.

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He also told us that he has Chapel duty and goes to church. Not sure if he volunteered for this or was assigned to it but either way we are happy that he has this opportunity. In and amongst all the craziness of Basic Training, it must be nice to have some quiet time in a peaceful place.

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We told CJ how proud we are of him and let him know that we FINALLY bought plane tickets and booked a hotel. We will be in Texas for all 4 days of his graduation activities. Two of those days, we will only be able to see him briefly but we want every second that we can get. The third day (and most of the fourth) we will get to see him a lot longer. We are excited and can't wait for the next 30 days to fly by.

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A few more things he shared - he has already lost 10 pounds. I can't imagine that because he was only about 150 when he left. He said that he had already gained some muscle mass. He also said that he was certified, quickly and easily, on some gun - an M something? Remember, he was talking fast and I know NOTHING about guns.

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I talked to CJ's girlfriend yesterday. Tristen stepped away from her cell phone for about 3 minutes and missed his call. She was definitely upset. It was nice to chat with her. I told her that I bet CJ will call her first the next time he gets phone privileges.

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Keep CJ in your thoughts, especially Tuesday, as he said he has a HUGE inspection that can get you sent home. He said he was nervous about it but that he THINKS he'll do ok. And keep the letters coming. We ALL appreciate it!

Brotherly Love

Connor really misses his brother. He is just as anxious as John and me to see him in Texas. Connor has never known life without big bro CJ and he's not crazy about it. He asks if he called everyday and gets as anxious as I when the mail man arrives. (nothing yet) :-(

Over the last few years, they would HAPPILY pose together for a photo. Any photo. They legitimately enjoy each other's company (for the most part). They had their issues but what 2 brothers don't? They truly love each other which is a relationship John and I really cherish.

It's been hard to watch Connor deal with CJ's departure and starting high school. School is NOT Connor's favorite past time - I think having CJ around might have made Connor's transition easier. I think Connor will really appreciate the time after Basic when we can all talk to CJ fairly regularly.

It's really hot again and it's not even 9AM. Connor and I will, at some point, venture out to get him an extra backpack. So far, neither of us have the energy to move. (he's not awake yet anyway) John is working again today so he will miss the shopping excursion. (bet he is NOT unhappy about that!)

I think I will sit outside in the sun and write CJ his next letter - if I don't melt. Just because it's Sunday (no mail service) doesn't mean I get to skip a day!! Btw, sitting at my neighbor's last night (fun time had by all - 80's music rocks!) did NOT bring me the same PHONE CALL MOJO from last week. Didn't really expect it to but how great would it have been if my phone rang?

Oh well, maybe a letter will come this week. I've got all my fingers, toes and other flexible body parts crossed. Time to stop writing... I am sharing WAY TOO MUCH INFORMATION! :-)

Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot

It's hot. And humid. And hazy. And just uncomfortable. And I'm feeling terribly guilty. How can I sit INSIDE, in an air conditioned house and complain about the heat when CJ is busting his butt in Texas? It's 93 degrees in San Antonio today and I bet CJ is NOT siting it out in an air conditioned room. Good thing I'm not in charge of the military. Days over 80 degrees would mean A/C, Popsicles and poolside!

Can you believe 1 week has passed since I got his phone call? Last Saturday I was across the street at my neighbors when THE CALL CAME IN. I told Chuck and Donna that I just might sit on their porch again tonight in hopes that he would call again. They didn't even hesitate - told me that I was more than welcome! Gotta love great neighbors.

Just wrote CJ another letter. It's really strange to continually have a 1-sided conversation. I try REALLY HARD not to ask him a lot of questions because he obviously can't answer them. I just babble on about the day and how everyone is doing. I can't wait to see him in 32 days (yes I'm counting!) and attack him with questions.

Still no hotel or plane tickets. What the hell is wrong with me? I NEVER travel without plans made WELL in advance. I am just so darn intent on making the RIGHT choice that I'm scared to make the WRONG choice. I really hope to decide and BOOK eveything by tomorrow night. At this rate, we might have to sleep with Shamu. His tank is CERTAINLY big enough. (oh wait, I hate water - that MAY be a problem) I'll keep you posted. :-)

Airman Twomey (a few years ago!)

Today's one of those days I needed a "hit" of times past. John gave me one of CJ's photo albums and I knew exactly the picture I wanted. John and I LOVE this picture. It remains one of our all time favorite photos of our first born. It captured perfectly, his adorable (yet cheesy!) 17 month old, Christmas smile. I love it, I love it, I love it.

How can that little boy be all grown up? Time really does fly by. CJ was barely 2 when we moved to Maine. Sixteen years have passed faster than I ever imagined. I don't think I spent a single minute back then, wondering what CJ would be doing in 16 years. Now I can't stop wondering what CJ is doing RIGHT NOW and RIGHT NOW and RIGHT NOW! :)

Haven't yet received a letter from Texas but sent #5 to him today. I just want to ensure that he never ends up empty handed on mail days. That single thought bothers me tremendously. Writing to him has become a part of my daily routine and is still cathartic for me - I blog in the morning and write him a letter in the late afternoon/early evening. Come into work the next day and drop the stamped envelope in our company mailbox. Makes me feel good to work through the process. Cf course, I wonder if he will get sick of hearing from me, but even that probably won't stop me!

Enjoy the picture. I found a few ADORABLE pics of CJ sans clothing but John told me I CAN NOT POST THEM ON HERE!!! He ruins all my fun. :-)

What Should It Say?

I need your help. I really WANT to have a banner made to take to Texas with us. My neighbor's Dad works at a screen printing company so I already have an in! What I don't have is any idea what the banner should say. Apparently my idea - WAY TO GO AIRMAN SHMOOPY!! - is not THRILLING many people. I think it's just about perfect but I have been STRONGLY encouraged to come up with another idea.

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That's where y'all come in. (practicing for Texas!) Someone out there MUST have a good idea - a clever, short and to the point, easy to read, stands out in a crowd idea. I don't want the thing to be huge - maybe the size of a poster board? What do y'all (there it is again!) think? And by y'all, I mean the 2 or 3 people that potentially read this! :-)

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If you have an idea, feel free to leave it in a comment. Or, for those of you that are banner-shy, feel free to email me directly. I promise not to tell the idea came from you! This isn't a competition - just a a sad plea from me to you to HELP ME BE CREATIVE!!! (although, if you need a prize to motivate you, I bet I can hook you up with a few samples from Starbucks - HINT HINT Dave!)

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Still can't believe how UNABLE John and I are to make a hotel decision. The issue is occupying every free mental moment I have. We WANT to stay near CJ but almost all of the reviews I have read say that in/around the base is mildly unsafe. Of course, then I find 3 more reviews that say BEST HOTEL EVER, STAY HERE WHILE IN LACKLAND, and I NEVER FELT SAFER IN MY LIFE!!! Who the heck am I supposed to believe? I even begged my neighbor Laura to just TELL ME where I have to stay. She seemed game until I let slip, "if YOU pick and it's horrible, we will just blame you!" (why can't Homer Simpson and I keep our crazy thoughts to ourselves?)

DOH!!!

Memories....Light the Corners of My Mind

Yes, I have been looking through all the pictures I have on my computer and smiling at the memories. One of these days, I plan to go through older pics of CJ and post some of my favorite ones on here. Some kids might not want their moms showing old pics of themselves to the world, but not my kid. CJ LOVES pictures of himself - especially the older, WAY CUTE ones. He used to "steal" the photo albums I have of him and spend time "oohing and ahhing" over himself. (the kid has a SLIGHTLY large ego!)

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The pic I added today is obviously not a perfect pic. It has shadows and it is sort of out of focus but I love it anyway. I took this @ the Mount Washington Resort on our last mini-vacation. The boys were playing cards in the grand hall and were just being goofy. Keep in mind, there were lots of people walking in and around their card game - I suspect they were having fun hamming it up. The vacation was short but it gave us all a great opportunity to spend time together.

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Just mailed off letter #3 to CJ. I can't believe I find so much to say to him about plain old everyday things. I laugh as I write to him as I find myself telling him all kinds of stuff that I would NEVER have told him if he was home - he would have KILLED me if I tried to bore him with so many inane details of life. Yesterday, as I sat outside writing to him ( I had to stay outside and watch Kamikaze Connor race up and down the street on CJ's gas powered scooter) I actually told him about the LOUD conversation that our neighbors were having. These are the neighbors that no one talks to, that have suspicious hobbies and that have VERY COLORFUL VERBAL skills. Yesterday, 3 of them (we have NO idea how many live there) were discussing their favorite movies that contain sex scenes. Did I mention that they were discussing this LOUDLY? With kids sort of close by?

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Strange as it was, it felt perfectly natural to relate this to CJ. Mind you, I didn't go into any details but just gave him a general overview of the situation. I was merely narrating life around the Twomey house. If I keep this up, CJ won't miss A THING while in Texas!

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Connor heads off to High School tomorrow to get his ID picture taken and to officially pick up his Freshman year schedule. His friend Charles is sleeping over tonight so they can go to together in the morning. I CAN NOT believe that my YOUNGEST son is starting high school. I CAN NOT believe that my OLDEST son is a member of the United States Air Force. How did all this happen? Where did my Thomas the Tank Engine and Barney loving kids go? Seems like just yesterday we were all in the car, driving somewhere, singing THE POOP SONG!! (CJ really loved that song!)

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When we get to Texas, I think I'll ask him if he remembers the words. Bet he'll appreciate that! :-)

Shamu, Here We Come!!

It's been 1 full week since he left. Sometimes that seems like just yesterday and other days it feels like forever. I can't believe how much has changed yet how much remains the same. The house looks the same (but doesn't sound the same - CJ liked his music LOUD), our daily routine is the same (minus dragging CJ out of bed for work in the AM), the phone rings the same (just far less frequently than it used to) and the laundry still needs to be done (3 baskets down to just 2 - that 3rd basket looks so alone sitting by the washing machine)

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Dinner still remains the biggest change. CJ ALWAYS wanted a full meal - wasn't thrilled when I tried to sneak in a "breakfast for dinner" night or hot dogs on the grill. He preferred a good steak, Caesar salad and fresh crusty bread from the bakery. I can't tell you how many times he would walk downstairs yelling, "what's for dinner?" only to be told and then DRAMATICALLY roll his eyes in disgust. Connor is simply easier to feed. He barely eats anything anyway but what he does eat is just simpler to prepare. Last night was popcorn chicken. And yes, I realize that I am NEVER going to win MOTHER OF THE YEAR for my cooking skills (or lack there of) but I was never in the running so why change now?

*****

I spoke to a bunch of people yesterday that were in the process of writing to CJ. THANK YOU!!! Before he left, a lot of people said that they would write to him but you just never know. I have already mailed letter #2 - it contained a whole lot of my babbling about everyday things - just like this blog!! Tried to fit a hug into the envelope but doubt it will make it all the way to Texas.

*****

We have been looking at different options while in San Antonio. I think we have decided that we will spend our 1 FULL day with Airman Twomey at Sea World. (did you know that there is a Sea World in San Antonio?) John and the boys LOVE rides and had so much fun last year at Sea World in Florida. Sea World has a lot to do and is just a great place to hang out as a family. It will be a little strange to see CJ walking around in his dress blues but I suspect that he won't be the only one. They are REQUIRED to where them while off base and can not get them wet. That eliminates the water rides at the park but not the roller coasters!! Can't wait to bring back pictures. :-)

*****

Found the banner at the top of this entry and thought it summed up perfectly how I feel. I AM PROUD and he IS in the Air Force. Therefore, I AM A PROUD AIR FORCE MOM!! Sounds strange rolling off my tongue - sort of the way calling myself Mrs. Twomey felt strange for almost 5 years after we got married. (Mrs. Twomey is my mother-in-law!)

*****

I read on Lackland's website that family and friends are encouraged to dress in patriotic colors and make banners/t-shirts/ large signs to acknowledge their graduate. Wonder if I can convince John and Connor to have us all dress up in red, white and blue and carry signs that say "AIRMAN SHMOOPY TWOMEY ROCKS!" CJ would probably not be happy - might even ignore us which would make our Sea World excursion less than jovial.

*****

Maybe I'll give that idea some more thought... :)

Sorry it has taken me so long to post CJ's address. I am still not 100% certain that I have the correct address. It was a little hard to understand him. He also left his address on our answering machine at home so John and I listened to it a few times. We THINK this is it:

AB Twomey Christopher J

322 TRS/FLT 599 (Dorm A-3)

PSC 4

1015 Truemper St Unit 364019

Lackland AFB, Tx 78236-6040

I PRAY that is correct. If not, God only knows where his mail will end up. John, Connor and I already mailed off a letter which will hopefully find it's way to him. And yes, it's a flat letter! :)

The logo at the top is from CJ's training squad. There are 8 different squads at Lackland - we have been curious to see which one he got assigned to. They all have different motto's. CJ's is one of the better ones.

I am still walking around on a little high after talking to him. I guess I didn't realize how worried I was. Just hearing him for a minute or two made all the difference. Can't wait to see him in 6 weeks. We need to book flights and hotel. Haven't done that yet as we are a little uncertain as to exact graduation dates. We are anxious to see him and will hopefully get to spend a good chunk of time with him while in San Antonio.

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Please send CJ a letter if you feel up to it. People keep telling me that mail makes all the difference during Basic. Remember....only flat letters - no packages at all! I was told they are given their mail 2-3 times per week. Hopefully, CJ will ALWAYS have something waiting for him.

THE PHONE FINALLY RANG!!!!!!!!

He called!!! He called!!! I am happy to report that I spoke to CJ, albeit it VERY BRIEFLY, and he sounds good. He said "it sucks" but that he is "kicking ass!" He told me that he loves me and to tell Connor, John and Tristen that he loves them too! Tristen, he said to call you to tell you that in person but I didn't get a chance to phone until it was too late. Call us tomorrow if you want.

I feel so much better. I think I smiled for the first time in 5 days after I hung up with him. The call was stressful as he QUICKLY (and I mean quickly) barked his mailing address to me. He said his TI (instructor) was standing next to him and was telling him to HURRY UP. I wrote as fast as I could but his address consists of a lot of letters and it was hard to understand him. I had to have him repeat himself a few times which wasn't making his instructor happy.

He is allowed to receive letters ONLY - no packages of any sort. If you decide to write him, please don't send anything but a written letter - no cards, pics or anything else until he tells us that it is ok to do so. Cards MAY be ok but he was so insistent that we only send him letters that I want to follow his exact instructions until I know otherwise.

I'll add his address tomorrow morning when I can type it correctly. It's a little late right now and I want to make sure I get it right.

Have a great night!! We will certainly sleep better! :)

Migraine #2

Yep, it happened again. 2nd migraine in less than 30 days. Guess stress really does take a toll on my body. This one came out of the blue - I didn't lose my vision like I usually do so I had no indication that it was starting. We had gone school clothes shopping in South Portland, had dinner and even stopped at Whole Foods to pick up sushi. (Connor has fallen in love with Whole Foods - wished he could tell CJ all about it but then remembered that he wasn't at home waiting for us) I felt ok - just a little headache. On the way home, it hit me. It just got worse on the drive. When we got home, John gave me a painkiller and I think I fell asleep. Woke up this morning still uncomfortable but better. Migraines are awful - I wouldn't wish them on my worst enemy. May have to make an appointment to see my neurologist again if this keeps up. Fun, fun, fun!! :-)

Shopping last night was ok. Managed to get Connor some pants which he desperately needs. Met a very friendly saleswoman - her daughter is in the Air Force and is stationed in Germany. She said she LOVES it. She told me all kinds of interesting things about her daughter's experience in Basic - she mentioned that they make a video of their time @ Lackland and they send it to the families. She said it just showed up in her mail one day. Now of course, I am anxious to get the mail! :-)

Moved some furniture around in CJ's room yesterday to make room for my elliptical machine. We didn't change much, just rearranged a few items. Connor stated, in no uncertain terms, that WE ARE NOT ALLOWED TO MOVE CJ'S DESK. He wants it left AS IS. So that's where it will stay. We hadn't even planned on moving it but now we KNOW BETTER!! Funny how certain things hold such strong meaning for different people. CJ's desk has been nothing for but a massive dust magnet and clutter keeper - I was constantly telling CJ to clean it and dust it. Obviously for Connor, it means far more than that and he can look beyond the dust. :-)

Thought a lot about CJ last night, especially while walking by Abercrombie. I decided to watch a video this morning on the Air Force website about basic training so I could (kind of) see what he is going through. The video shows what a new recruit can expect for the first few weeks. Still seems weird to picture CJ as one of those recruits. Unbelievable that my son can be so far away doing such amazing things. Can't wait to meet the new man I'm sure he is becoming!

Wonder if I he'll mind if I address him as Airman Shmoopy Whoopy? :)

Missing You...

I miss him. I do. It's Friday and we haven't heard anything. And yes, I know, he is fine, he is safe and he is doing what he wants to do. Yadda yadda yadda...... I "get" all that. I really do. It just isn't easy to go from a family of 4 to a family of 3 with zero transition. If CJ had gone off to college, we would have seen him on a somewhat regular basis and been able to talk to him AT LEAST as much as he would let us. We would have been weened off his presence in our house slowly. But not now. We went from 18 years WITH him, to 6 years WITHOUT. (and really longer if I am being honest - he probably won't come home to live with us at 24) And for those of you that keep telling me that we will be just fine and to "suck it up," we WILL be fine, just not anytime soon. This new kind of normal just doesn't FEEL normal yet. I'll let you know when it does. :-)
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So, this morning was the start of the Balloon Festival. I have already seen 12 hot air balloons this morning and even managed to see the giant birthday cake. It's really impressive to look up and see so many gorgeous balloons floating by. Of course, seeing them made me think of CJ YET AGAIN. Connor told me that CJ was feeling sad that he would miss the balloons this year. We have lived in Maine for 16 years and this is the 15th annual festival. Which means CJ has seen every single one....until today. :-(
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I hope to take pictures when I get home so that he can see what he missed. I'll post some here if they come out alright. We are usually lucky enough (if the winds cooperate) to get a few that fly right over or near the house. In years past, we have had some amazing picture opportunities. Hopefully, this year will be the same.
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Still walking around connected to my cell phone and still checking it every hour or so to make sure that it is working. It is.
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No HUGE plans for the weekend. John may golf tonight for the first time this year. Hopefully his innards will STAY innards and not become OUTARDS. We have a get together planned with our neighbors tomorrow night. I am really looking forward to that - we ALWAYS have a great time. John has Sunday off so we may have to think of something fun to do as a family. Other than that, we will just putter along. Maybe we'll do some yard work or maybe I'll try to pick up a few more items for Connor for school. And maybe, just maybe, our phone will ring. :-)

I Need This Dog....

I have decided that in an effort to keep my mind busy while waiting for CJ to call, I am going to become a dachshund collector. And I don't think I will tell John about my decision. He will NOT be happy so it's best that he not know. I'm not quite sure how I will hide these new additions from John but CJ's room IS empty.....

This guy is going to be my first acquisition. I just need to find him. Don't know where he is, don't know if his owner will part with him, don't even know if he wants to be adopted. But I must find out. This picture haunts my dreams. How could a dog BE any cuter? It's the eyes I think. They seem to contain all the wisdom I am seeking - not to mention I SWEAR they follow me. (plus, if you turn your head sideways, his white patch looks a little like Texas!)

Still no phone call and still not surprised. I would love to hear that he is doing fine, that he is adjusting and that maybe he misses us just a little! I'd also like to know that he isn't being swept away by Tropical Storm Erin - how ironic is it that my son gets shipped off to Texas the day before a severe tropical storm hits! John keeps reminding me that it's ok that he hasn't called. That the Air Force CLEARLY stated that it might be 2 weeks before we hear from him. Two weeks is the 28th - Connor's first day of high school. Can't believe how many BIG things our family has experienced this year: CJ's high school graduation, CJ turning 18, CJ enlisting in the Air Force, Connor starting high school, John's 2 major surgeries. 2007 will certainly be remembered as a year of change for the Twomey family.

Now, if the Air Force would just CHANGE their policy and let my son call his mother, life would be grand! :-)

Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot....

96 degrees in San Antonio today - wonder how CJ liked waking up to that? As I rolled out of bed this morning (cursing John for turning the fan on last night) I realized I was FREEZING. Then I realized that CJ probably wasn't. Then I started thinking how odd it is that CJ is in Texas. Texas! Wasn't he just here a minute ago?

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Can't imagine what last night was like for him or this morning. I know for us it continues to feel strange and empty in the house. I found Chauncey walking through CJ's bedroom last night looking a little lost. Before CJ left, he completely stripped his room. It looks like he never lived there. It's so empty that it almost has an echo... Chauncey sniffed here and there but never did try to jump up on the bed. (he usually would when CJ was home) Wonder if he realizes that CJ is gone? Probably not but I swear they both LOOK a little sadder.

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I kept hoping that the phone would ring last night but truly didn't expect it to. I slept with my cell phone near by as well as the house phone. No calls but I was ready! I figure I will just live in an eternal state of anticipation. (not great for the stomach or my migraines!)

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Btw.... did you all know that San Antonio is ONLY 1 hour behind us? I just assumed that Texas was a 2 hour time difference. IT'S NOT - I looked. Only 1 tiny section of Texas reaches into Mountain Standard Time. CJ asked me that question when he called yesterday. Thankfully I was in front of the laptop and could GOOGLE it. I have been spreading vicious rumors for weeks. God only knows how many people I incorrectly informed. Can you imagine how many Trivial Pursuit games I have inadvertently sabotaged? What if someone gets that question as their FINAL PIE PIECE question? I should be locked up....

On His Way... Sort of

I just heard from CJ. I was thrilled and a little surprised. Never thought he would call this early. Turns out that he has to sit at the Jetport for 5 hours. His flight leaves at 5:34 pm and gets him into San Antonio at 10:26 tonight. He sounds ok just a bit frazzled. That's a REALLY REALLY long time to sit at an airport - and the Jetport is NO Logan!! Not a lot to do, not a lot to see, not a lot of anything. He IS with another recruit. I think it's better to sit with someone then sit alone - even if that someone is a stranger!

We are feeling very empty today but are muddling along. John went to work, Connor is on the computer and I'm just..... not sure but I keep moving from room to room so I MUST be doing something!

Oh, I remember now...I'm hugging the dogs a lot. It's amazing how comforting a warm dachshund can be. So far, both seem ok with it. I guess they will let me know when they have had enough!

Off to do something else.

I'm Just So Tired....

We're home. I really don't have words to describe how hard that was. I know in my heart that he will be fine, he will be safe and he will be a brilliant addition to the Air Force. Still, my heart is heavy and that's not just me being dramatic. My chest actually feels like a weight is sitting on it. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine saying goodbye to either of my sons for 6 years. Nothing anyone can say will make it seem better right now - perhaps time will make me adjust to the idea but I can't even picture that.

The pictures above were taken tonight. The one of Connor and CJ came out fuzzy but that's ok - we were all looking at each other through tears making everything seem fuzzy. This pic will just act as a reminder of that single moment in time. The second pic is of CJ and his good friend Jack. Jack graduated this year with CJ and is ironically shipping out tomorrow as well. Jack will be in the Coast Guard but since they all ship out from the same place, they get to be roommates tonight. CJ was happy to have a familiar face by his side. Jack's a good guy and will hopefully help CJ pass the night in a more relaxed manner.

Now we wait. We have no idea when next we will hear from him. My cell phone will become a permanent part of my daily outfit until CJ calls. Until then I plan to stare it and WILL it to ring. I apologize to those of you that will call me on my cell phone in the meantime. I won't MEAN to sound disappointed that it's you on the other end. I'm just really hoping that it's a certain Airman calling to say hi....

Off to bed - not sure I EVER remember being this tired.

The Time Has Come

The day is finally here. (excuse me while I go throw up, cry a little, dry my eyes and then cry some more) Actually, the tears haven't really started yet. I got a little misty eyed watching my Mom say good bye to CJ. She just left to head back to Massachusetts this morning. CJ is her first grandchild and they have ALWAYS been close. I suspect it was just as hard for her to hug him one last time as it will be for me.

Not sure when the tears will start. They are sitting right below the surface as I type but are laying low for now. I'm not purposely holding them in either. Perhaps I am just storing them up for one GINORMOUS water works event later this evening. Won't that be fun to watch? :-)

It just started rainging HARD - the crappy weather sums up how I feel perfectly. And I know it describes CJ pretty well, too. He had to say good bye to Tristen for the last time this morning. They met at 6:30 AM so they could spend an hour together before she needed to be at work. What a way to start your day, huh?

CJ is truly packed, clothes and all. And thanks to some very generous neighbors (The Henry's and The Norcross's) CJ's wallet is ready to go as well! :-) They were kind enough to give him a little going away money at yesterdays party. Couldn't have given him a better gift since he can't really take much with him. He also got a gorgeous book on Fighter Aircraft from The Flower's family. (they gave John and I great patriotic note cards to keep in touch with CJ - how thoughtful!) The party was great. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves (minus the sweltering heat). CJ is lucky to have such caring friends and family members in his life. They were all here to support him, even as they stood still and SWEAT!!

We leave for Portland around 3:00 this afternoon to check him into his hotel. After that, we will have dinner and walk around the Old Port. Will end the evening back at his hotel - by 9:00 pm we should be heading home. There will be 9 of us - John's parents, my brother and father, our neighbor Laura and the 4 of us. The evening will be emotional (at least for me!) but we will make the best of it. I'm just thankful we have one more opportunity to "hang out" with Airman Twomey before Uncle Sam OFFICIALLY owns his tooshie!

I plan to spend tomorrow curled up in a fetal position, eating cookies (there are a ton left from the party) while sending constant positive thoughts to Texas. Sounds like a real productive day!

No more days to count..... :-(

Smiles Make the World Go Round

Will blog more in the morning but thought I would end this evening on a nice note. Not only is my wonderful son embarking on the biggest journey of his young life, but he is doing it with the support of a smiling face. We like her a lot which is a new feeling for us. And she makes my son happy. What more can we ask for?

Just remember to take it SLOW (very slow!) and enjoy the ride. And since you ALWAYS listen to your wise Mom, CJ, I know I have nothing to worry about! :-)

One Handsome Shmoopy Woopy

Tonight's the last night this handsome kid will sleep in our house for how long???? What a strange thought. How is that possible? Where did this summer go? Why is time racing by? Maybe I'll offer to read him a bed time story tonight - just like I used to. Of course, I used to read him Thomas the Tank Engine. If he had his choice now, he would probably have me read the World of Warcraft instruction manual. (don't think that would be nearly as heart warming as a little Thomas!)

He is still sleeping (guess at 7AM most people still are) even though I went in and dumped 2 adorable wieners on his bed. They usually spend the night with Connor but they seem to love their "morning CJ snuggle." I wonder how long it will take them to figure out that he is missing. Wonder if they will act the same toward him next time they see him. Before we adopted Chauncey, he was severely beaten by a man in the military. Bet we will have to be careful with CJ coming back into the house in uniform - Chauncey might suffer from flashbacks. Can you imagine a dachshund suffering from PTSD? Only in the Twomey household....

Time to get showered and dressed and get the day officially started. That's what I need to do. What I WANT to do is crawl back into bed, bury my head under the covers and stop the day from happening. That way the house can be frozen as is - 2 parents, 2 snuggly wieners and 2 snoozing kids EXACTLY where they are supposed to be.

1 day and counting....

Houston, We Have Food!!!

You can all relax. You will NOT go hungry on Sunday. CJ and I shopped this morning and have successfully rectified the ZERO FOOD situation. We ran all over town but still finished in less than 2 hours. Poor kid... how many moms out there make their son go back into Shaws IMMEDIATELY after shopping to buy MORE Diet Coke. I wouldn't even let him walk out the door - just spun him around and sent him back to the happiest place on Earth - Aisle #10 - the Land of Diet Coke!!! He was very agreeable - must sense my vulnerability. Must also know that DC makes his Mom very happy. :-)

We also managed to finish purchasing all the last minute things he needs to fly away into the wild blue yonder. Mini sewing kit, mini shaving cream, mini mouthwash, mini book of stamps. Well, they are not necessarily mini but the book IS small and flat! He's really ready to go - has EVERYTHING listed as mandatory and even a few extras that were his choice. All he has to add Sunday night is his clothes (3 days worth) and he is all set.

Made it through the top secret, security clearance meeting yesterday. Turns out it wasn't really anything to be worried about. They just needed to ask CJ a few questions. Took all of about 4 minutes. CJ was SERIOUSLY relieved when it was over. Of course, trying to get my name added to his military account took us over an hour. Bank of America does not screw around when it comes to extra people getting connected to a military account. Looked like it wouldn't even happen for a little while - they asked more questions than you can possibly imagine. They needed to know where my Social Security CARD was issued. How the heck do I know that? When I needed it for the first time in my teen years for a job, my Mom just handed it to me. I guessed (INCORRECTLY) that since I was born in Ohio, that perhaps it was issued in Ohio. WRONG!!!!!!!!!!! The choices were MASS, ARIZONA, NEVADA or OTHER. We went with other - felt good about that choice but also felt like I was potentially going to fail a really important test!! We passed and I am now officially listed on his account. PHEW!!!!

The rest of today will be spent cleaning, stressing, organizing, stressing, dusting, stressing and mowing the lawn (CJ won't do it - I asked - and Connor is out making a skateboard video so I am SOL!) Still can't believe the time is just about here. Seems like just yesterday cute little CJ would grab John's or my face and declare, "What's that I NIFF?" (not SNIFF, he always dropped the S) That kid could sniff out an M&M on your breath a mile away!! :-)

2 days and counting....

EBAY - my 2nd true love (after Diet Coke)

Anxiety can be a good thing. By 8:23 this morning I had already made the bed, washed (and folded) 2 loads of laundry, ironed John's clothes for work (did you see pigs flying?), made him coffee (for real, I did!) and listed 3 items on Ebay. By 8:24, I was ready to call it a day. :-)

Have I told you I love Ebay? And right now, I love Ebay more than I normally do. What a great way to exhaust my nervous energy. The entire process keeps me busy, busy, busy. From asking "is this worth selling?", to deciding how much to sell it for, then writing an accurate description and taking a fabulous picture (you want to capture it's best side!) to getting the listing JUST right, takes a lot of energy!!! Then trying to figure out WHY HASN'T SOMEONE ALREADY BID ON MY FANTASTIC ITEM EVEN THOUGH ITS ONLY BEEN LISTED FOR 3 MINUTES!! I'm telling you, it's just exhausting.

Sitting here waiting for CJ to get home so we can head to the big secret, high security clearance meeting. He just finished working his last day as a counselor at Camp Connor. Seems weird to think that he won't ever go back to that job. The Air Force PROBABLY won't let him take next summer off to wrangle rugrats at a summer camp! :-)

Plan is still in place for later today to buy stuff for Sunday's party. I still have nothing purchased yet but I HAVE A LIST. That has to count for something. Of course, the list is a little pathetic but I think I'll do ok once I actually start shopping. Too bad I am not a great cook - this pent up anxiety could be partially funneled into food preparation. I don't think I am a horrible cook but as my big brother Dave keeps reminding me, "opening a box of Mac & Cheese is not cooking!" (I disagree - I DID add milk and butter - that's cooking in my book!)

3 days and counting....... OY VEY (I'm not Jewish but since I celebrated Hanukkah with my neighbor Laura this year, I am officially allowed to use that saying - ask Laura, it's true!)

Time Is FLYING by.....

Obviously I was MEANT to wait to purchase party related items. Anyone want to guess what goes on sale as of tomorrow???? Anyone??? Anyone??? Bueller? Bueller??? (sorry, I digress)
That's right....DIET COKE!!!! (and other Coke products but that is far less important) The Gods ARE smiling down on me. A party full of Diet Coke - what more can you ask for? Ok, a little food to go along with the DC. Maybe a hamburger or two, some chips, some side salads. Maybe even a cookie or brownie. But more than anything, there will be DIET COKE and I will be happy. (how can anyone say I am high maintanence - look how little it takes to excite me!) Thanks to our wonderful neighbor Laura and her impressive ability to read a SHAWS flyer. You go girl!! Keep on reading - what else is on sale? ;-)

Not much new on the homefront. Still in a massive holding pattern. Well, a holding pattern that keeps getting shorter every day. CJ met with his recruiter last night for a final check in. Sgt. Jorgenson said he is ready to ship out. He does have to pop in to the recruitment office for 2 minutes Monday morning to sign one last paper but other than that, Jorgenson's job is done.

CJ does have some sort of Security Clearance meeting tomorrow at the Auburn Police Department. He wasn't expecting the meeting nor was his recruiter. CJ is a little anxious wondering what it's all about. I will go with him - that way I will be there to hold his hand if he gets scared. Or wipe his nose if he starts to cry. Or bail him out if he gets arrested. No need to tell me I'm a great mom - I know already!!

Hand holding + nose wiping + bail money = PRICELESS!!!

After the meeting, CJ and I have to go finish up some last minute banking items and then will attempt (finally) to buy stuff for the party. I have no idea how many people are coming. This is the most casual party we have ever hosted. Ususally, I send out Evites and ask for a head count. This time, we are just flying by the seat of our pants. Hopefully, people will cut us a break JUST THIS ONE TIME!! My brain is so scattered right now that party planning is (SHOCKINGLY) not a priority.

I'm off from work after today until Wednesday. Figured I needed time to prepare for the big departure. Plus, I wanted to be on-hand 24/7 incase CJ decides he needs to see me/talk to me/ hug me/thank me for all I've done, etc..... Nothing major really, just be in his face every waking minute until the United States Government takes posession of my baby. Sniff....

4 days and counting.....

Diet Coke Rules the World

Honestly, my nerves are shot. I'm getting anxious and sad and excited for CJ all at that same time. I'm convinced that the days are dragging by, slower than watching paint dry and then am SHOCKED to realize that it is already Wednesday. Wednesday!! Which means Thursday and Friday are right around the corner. Which means Saturday and Sunday are not far behind. (note to self....BUY FOOD for Sunday!) Somehow I think I have convinced myself if I don't buy food for Sunday's BBQ then Sunday won't come. Which means Monday would never arrive and I wouldn't have to say goodbye. I am obviously living in the LAND OF DENIAL!!! :-)

Wish someone would just grab me by the shoulders and shake some sense into me. Tell me to suck it up and deal with it. Kick me in the butt and remind me that a GOOD MOM would just be happy for her son and not feel sick whenever she thinks of him leaving. (leaving for six years, SIX YEARS!!!)

***ok, don't really kick or shake me cuz I am rather vulnerable right now and might cry. Maybe just a little friendly poke in the shoulder or a tap on my head or maybe even a hug while singing Kumbaya...

John and I did manage to get out and buy basic groceries last night. You know it's bad when you have ZERO milk, ZERO bread and wait, are you sitting down?

ZERO DIET COKE!!!!!!!!!!

It was bad, really bad. This is not the time of my life to be without my one true Savior. The blessed nectar of the Gods. The elixir of Life. The reason I get up in the morning (yes I drink DC in the AM) and the liquid I swallow my Ambien with at night. Just believe me when I say, DIET COKE is helping me get through this rough time. Forget alcohol, forget smoking, forget chocolate, forget everything as long as you DON'T forget my Diet Coke. (well, maybe a LITTLE chocolate!) How can I possibly be the strong supportive parent for CJ if I am a quart low? It's just not right....

So, we shopped. And we bought Diet Coke(!). And we realized that we COULD buy sausage to make grilled sausage sandwiches. Why is this a big deal, you're asking? How could purchasing sausage possibly be connected to CJ joining the Air Force? Because after Sunday, there will not be a cranky 18 year old stomping around the house, REFUSING to eat the aforementioned pork product. I generally shy away from buying meals that would require me making something ELSE for Mr. Picky Eater (and believe me, sausage is only the tip of the picky iceberg!) But it dawned on me that I don't have to do that anymore. That I can buy things that the 3 of us WILL eat and not worry about what CJ will say. And how sad that is. :-(

Also managed to exhaust some of my pent up anxiety by forcing Connor to go through HIS ENTIRE WARDROBE. Come on parents, you know what I am talking about. The annual "DOES THIS FIT YOU, WILL YOU WEAR IT, HOW DID I EVER LET YOU WEAR THAT WITH SO MANY HOLES IN IT, HOW MUCH DO I NEED TO BUY YOU," routine. Also known as the "School clothes shuffle." We managed to finish fairly quickly and without much argument. Unfortunately, the results were not great. Well, great for Goodwill but not great for our bank account. Connor needs ALL new pants, a few new HOODIES, new boxer shorts (not undies, yeah!) and a couple of t-shirts. The pants are crucial. He SELFISHLY grew 3 1/4 inches this year which means all his pants are way too short. Guess I will get CJ off safely on Monday and then concentrate all my new anxiety (is he eating enough, are they being nice to my SHMOOPY WOOPY, is he melting in the Texas heat?) on clothes shopping for Connor. Bet he can't wait!!!

Maybe I'll even buy myself something new. I think a new pair of shoes could go along way in helping me get over my sadness. Not that I am even REMOTELY suggesting shoes could replace CJ (well, maybe a pair of Jimmy Choos- just kidding!) (I am kidding, really I am - I DO NOT LOVE shoes as much as my children - how dare you think such a thing!)


5 days and counting....

CJ's Future Office

Just playing with the picture option. I plan to post a pic now and again so figured I better learn how. Can you imagine CJ doing whatever it is an Airborne Battle Management Systems guy does? Wonder if they serve honey roasted peanuts and offer an in-flight movie? :-)

I HAD YOU AT HELLO......

Well.....the feedback for this blog has been positive so far. Most people I heard from thought that it was a great idea and a really easy way to get caught up on all things Twomey related. I was pleased - that just means that I won't ALWAYS be talking to myself! (not such a bad thing anyway - I do it A LOT)

I RELUCTANTLY sent the link to CJ - wasn't sure how he would "receive" the first few entries I made. For those of you that took the time to read my earlier entries, you may have figured out that CJ was NOT my favorite person at that time. He was seriously causing me to question why I EVER thought having kids was a good idea. Ok, maybe I didn't really give having CJ a whole bunch of thought back when I was 18. Not even sure I thought it was a good idea - more like I THOUGHT snuggling with John was a GREAT idea!! (he really is a good snuggler!)

But CJ says he likes it. Says he will continue to read it as long as I continue to update it. Which means I must continue. And really, why wouldn't I? Do you know how hard it is at times to get your 18 year old's undivided attention? To sit him down long enough to ask him if he has clean underwear on (ok, John asks him that one not me). To REMIND him how adorable he USED to be even when he would hide behind a big chair and poop? To burn his cute face (minus those funky 70's style sideburns) into my brain so I can bring up his smile whenever I am feeling down? Bottom line, if CJ likes it, I'll do it. And if anyone else likes it, HOT DAMN!!! That's just icing on the cake.

Need to get out and buy a few more things to send the boy off to Texas. Already got him a fabulous 7-pack of Fruit of the Loom undies. Why 7? I wondered the same thing myself. Apparently 7 is THE NUMBER when it comes to men's briefs. And CJ already tried them - not happily I might add - after all, the men in my family are BOXER MEN! (sounds like a Super Hero) I think the last time I bought underwear they had Barney on them. John really liked Barney, what can I say? :-) Need to get stamps and envelopes and an itty bitty can of shaving cream. Itty bitty because CJ can only take one carry on bag (no checked luggage) and everything liquid has to fit in 1 clear zip loc bag. Even his deodorant has to be 3 oz. or less. Apparently taking a 4 0z stick of deodorant would make him a danger to his fellow passengers...

6 days and counting.....