@Rarely27, I introduced the idea of USNA to our son when he was just 9. When he earned his appointment and accepted I was overjoyed and had a heavy heart. What had I done??? Was this right? Would he be happier at a 'regular' college? We would see him more, he would have 'fun' and not get yelled at. He could sleep in, bring his laundry home, and I could cook for him. Wouldn't regular college be safer? And not come with a commitment?
All of that ran through my head. And then I saw how overjoyed he was. Then he had his own, holy smokes, this is a big deal and definitely 'N*ot College'. But, he is living his life and has had opportunities I can't even describe. And it isn't over yet. He has more opportunities in front of him than had he taken the other path. The road more traveled.
When he flew out alone for I Day, it began the separation in terms of visits. 168 days went by before he flew home and we got our hugs. We made it, you adapt. Now, for the second summer in a row, he has elected voluntary summer classes so, between those and 2 training blocks, he won't be home. It will be a year in-between visits home. And we are too far away to visit often. I am overjoyed to be flying out for the 2/C Parent Weekend, and to know that in August, he will stand with his classmates and sign their 2 for 7's.
I know tomorrow will be tough, and emotional for all of you. Just remember that your tears somehow morph into tears of pride and the sad part gets a little smaller and lessens over time. You raised someone who is willing to do hard things, to take the road less traveled, and to stand firmly (with wobbly knees) in T-Court and bellow, "I DO!". That is something to be immensely proud of. Soak it all in, you will all be in the hearts of those who have gone through it with their own kiddos.