The concept that my wife will be away for a very long time is finally starting to settle in as a reality, not just an abstract concept. The funny thing is, it wasn’t the purchase of a newer car for the family, the settling of a ton of debt or even the myriad conversations we’ve had on the subject that finally brought it all home for both of us. It was something much more humble and innocuous.
It was one lonely banker’s box.
This is the very first box packed specifically for my wife’s deployment to Incirlik Air Force Base, Turkey. It’s fitting that it’s a box full of Christmas ornaments, as we got together very near Christmas, and it is by far our favorite time of the year. But packing this one tiny box of ornaments, decorations and two tiny tabletop Christmas trees brought the reality of our impending separation home like a hammer striking an anvil. It’s the hardest box I’ve ever packed.
With this reality setting in, I can’t help but wonder what the impact on Lil’ B. will be. it’s hard enough for any child to be separated from their parent, but in this case the child is autistic. He’s fueled by routine, and we’re going to destroy any semblance of that routine by moving half way across the country and then leaving him one parent short just before entering a Pre-K atmosphere. Neither one of us know how he’ll handle these transitions, but we’re hopeful that he can adapt over time.
As for me, I’m not at all looking forward to this. I already find myself missing my wife and she hasn’t left yet, but preparations are well underway. There is no denying at this point that she will be gone for a time and I am expected to hold everything together in her absence. There are times I wonder if I’m capable, but I’ll be damned if I’ll fail her or lil’ B. while she’s away.
So for tonight my friends, I must go. I have a lot to write about Our Hero over the next few days. His recent progress is amazing, but for now I’m in the mood to sit with my wife and watch Season 1 of Babylon 5, which she so kindly bought me for Christmas. I’ll keep you all up to date.
Peace, I’m out.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
*hugs* I know this is going to be hard on all of you… but if any family could Lil’ B through this, it will be you guys. Over the past few months you’ve shown us what a wonderfully supportive and strong family you are and I fully believe you 3 will meet and overcome any challenges in your path.
Awww, Thanks Jo! I hope I live up to all of it. I know I’ll be doing my level best.
I was wondering how you guys were handling all of this. I can remember my dad getting orders, but in those days, we all tagged along. My sister was a tiny thing, so I’m not sure what she remembers, but it was always a strange mixture of being excited, and then getting to wherever we were going and realizing my friends were where we left them. You are obviously the constant in your son’s life at this point, and how lucky he is for that. I’ll keep you all in my thoughts.