July 27, 2009.

I can't believe today was the real deal. Sunday night was just a sample of what's to come, and I survived my first day. Waking up with the knowledge clear in my mind that for the next three months, I won't see his face or hear his voice is so unreal to me. This was definitely the last thing I expected to happen with us. Never did I imagine in my wildest dreams I'd have to say good bye to him, as he leaves for Marine boot camp, it's just one of those things that 'happens to all the other girls, but will never happen to me'. Well, guess I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed, now am I? Because it did happen, I did have to say good bye. I'm not sure he realizes how much this is going to affect me, or how much it could change things, but I know it will definitely be for the best. We're strong enough to outlast this challenge and step in our lives. After all, three months isn't that long is it? For now I just have to keep busy. It's definitely weird, to think that while I'm writing this, he's asleep in his bunks, with his fellow recruits. That in a few hours, he'll be up, getting ready for another day of training while I lay asleep, safe in my bed. Hopefully by having this blog, and writing in it daily, I'll be able to keep myself busy. To get all the frustration and stress out of my body. I can't wait to receive that first letter, to know that he's being strong and is going to become the best Marine he can be. Never have I dealt with something like this, or even been faced with such a task, but I can do it. I will do it. I miss you so much already Austin, but you don't know how proud I am that you're achieving your goals and although you can't read this just yet, I love you.

"Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts. And we are never, ever the same"