So.................

So....what do you think I should get Lee for our anniversary in 2013...should I get him the ball cap or the license plate frame????  

Lee received word yesterday...he is being involuntarily retired next year (December 1, 2013)....although, I am sure by then he will totally volunteer!!  I happened to see on my coastie wife board yesterday afternoon that notices were coming out...I called Lee just as he was about to leave to come home and tell me.  I kinda thought this would happen...so I resolved that no matter what...I support Lee, I have for almost 23 years and I am not about to stop now.

When he told me, my stomach knotted and I kinda felt like I wanted to cry...but at the same time, I felt relief, we knew what our course would be.  Elliott and I had talked earlier in the day -before we knew- and we agreed on a plan of attack for college.  One great thing about having military kids...they just go with the flow and adapt.  I love that about Mace and Eli.  While Lee was on his way home, I called Mason and Arrielle.  I left a message on the machine for my dad.   Once I told all of the people I love the most...the knot released a little and the tears that wanted to flow subsided.  Elliott, Mason and my dad...kinda seemed excited.  So, why shouldn't we???  My dad made me smile and feel better, he said not to worry about the things that make me fret the most, it would be ok...and then went right onto the next topic, he wanted me to look up something about his tv in his bedroom.  I love when he does that...it makes me feel like "it ain't nothing but a thing". 

We know we want to return to Washington, so Lee will look there for jobs.  He  has a great skill set...so I am not even worried about that.  I have been reminded, that this is not an ending, it is really just another door opening...to a new adventure.  

However....I do have a list of things to look forward to-

1. MAHONEY, MAHONEY, MAHONEY!!!

2. Dates with my dad, where we run errands together...I get to be his secretary again.

3. I cannot wait to have Mason and Arrielle over for dinner...we have never done that!

4. Elliott will be happier, near friends he cherishes.

So, I am thinking the license plate frame would be better.  Lee has worn a ball cap for the Coast Guard, for 25 years now, 26 years when he retires...

Peace out... (that's for Lee)