It's been decided.

Well, as it turns out, the Army was very quick in their decision. Stephen will be deployed as planned. At first he was hoping that he could stay with Kasey if Laurie makes the cut for the program she has been trying so hard to get into. He wasn't trying to get out of his deployment since he would have deployed at a later date. But the army says no. Pure and simple. No.
So now, we will proceed with Plan A as originally decided with a slight change in Laurie's schedule if she makes the program. She will report at a later date so that she can stay with Kasey as long as possible while Stephen is away, and then we will have him the remainder of the time.
I am so proud of Stephen's attempt since it could be misconstrued by some as an attempt to get out of his deployment. He was putting his family first. They are always willing to support one another in their military careers - no matter what it takes.
I will probably be here day and night during his deployment - hope you don't get tired of seeing me.
He has some training to do and we will visit him one more time before he leaves. And then, once again, the yellow ribbons go up on the trees in front of our home and the special yellow ribbon pin with the Army star attached as a charm will go on, and be worn each and every day until he comes safely home. The all too familiar routine will begin again.
For those who are experiencing it right now - your loved ones are appreciated far more than words can say. It's not just about my kids - it's about them all.
May God bless them...may He bless us all.