Six Days to go, and DS backed out

[DisneyNutMary]

Ahhhhh, I don't even know how to feel.

We leave in six days for WDW, and yesterday afternoon, my 19 year old gets a call from school that an RA position opened up; he is number one on the alternate list, and move in day for training is this Sunday. He has wanted this so bad, he was just conflicted all afternoon. My DH and I both encouraged him to follow his heart, no matter whether it's pointing toward the job or toward the trip. He chose the job, he really wants it. We're so happy for him, but we'll miss him on the trip- particularly my 15 year old, they are ride buddies when DH and I tire out.

Now I have to go to work on changing things. We're flying Delta, I'm hoping I can change his ticket to a flight in the winter so he can still get to go but just a little later. My only other major concern is my Hoop Dee Doo reservation. I need to take him off, but I don't want to risk losing the whole reservation in an attempt to change it.

Has anyone here had this happen so late in planning? How do you all deal with the heartache of realizing your little boy is all grown up now and making mature decisions- like skipping out on a family vacation? I know it'll be ok, I'm just sad that he won't be along on the trip.

 

[JessM]

Don't worry about your Hoop-De-Doo reservation you can easily call and get that straightened out.

I'm sure it will be hard to not have your son there but him becoming an RA is something to be very proud of! Plus free room and board I'm assuming. Its a lot of work and a lot of students wouldn't even consider it, so good for your son

 

[DisneyNutMary]

Thanks for the info. And the encouragement.

 

[DisneyRegulars]

I'm sorry your son won't get to go with you on your trip. I can understand how disappointing that would be, especially for the 15 year old. On the positive side though, it sounds like you have raised a kid with a very good set of priorities. Be proud of that, and focus on having a blast with your 15 year old.

 

[mm1971]

Ahhhhh, I don't even know how to feel.

We leave in six days for WDW, and yesterday afternoon, my 19 year old gets a call from school that an RA position opened up; he is number one on the alternate list, and move in day for training is this Sunday. He has wanted this so bad, he was just conflicted all afternoon. My DH and I both encouraged him to follow his heart, no matter whether it's pointing toward the job or toward the trip. He chose the job, he really wants it. We're so happy for him, but we'll miss him on the trip- particularly my 15 year old, they are ride buddies when DH and I tire out.

Now I have to go to work on changing things. We're flying Delta, I'm hoping I can change his ticket to a flight in the winter so he can still get to go but just a little later. My only other major concern is my Hoop Dee Doo reservation. I need to take him off, but I don't want to risk losing the whole reservation in an attempt to change it.

Has anyone here had this happen so late in planning? How do you all deal with the heartache of realizing your little boy is all grown up now and making mature decisions- like skipping out on a family vacation? I know it'll be ok, I'm just sad that he won't be along on the trip.

Congratulations to your son! Sounds like a great job opportunity.

I wouldn't worry too much about HDDR. Just call them and ask to reduce the ressie by 1. I'm pretty sure it won't be an issue. If needed, explain the situation. I'm sure they will understand.

We are not at the point where DS doesn't want to go on vacation. It is coming fast though. We no longer take vacations during school sessions and he is definitely maturing. I wouldn't think of it as skipping out on a vacation. I'm sure he would like to go. Think of it as another step in his building a life for himself.

Have a great time on vacation.

 

[DisneyNutMary]

Thanks for the replies. I'm really so happy for him, but the mommy in me can't forget the little boy in him, and I know I'll miss him....the first week back to dorm is always hard for me.

 

[whatisgoofy?]

For what it's worth, I was an RA my Junior and Senior years, and it was a truly marvelous experience. While a lot of work and responsibility, it was also deeply satisfying and a great deal of fun. It didn't hurt to get free board either (it helped me graduate with zero debt). Not to mention, when the time comes to apply for that first job after graduation, many employers give a lot of weight to having "RA" on your resume. It helps them overcome the "you're just a kid, you must be an irresponsible slacker" bias. Your son has made a very wise, and mature decision. I know you'll miss him on your trip, but you have the right to feel proud of the fine young man he is becoming.

 

[seashoreCM]

DS will have plenty of time later in life to go to WDW.

But, opportunity knocks only once for the RA position, which he should accept given that he wanted it so badly.

Just my opinion, adjust the Hoop De Doo reservation after you are down there in person, as opposed to over the phone before leaving home. That way you can get the new confirmation in writing on the spot.

 

[BooCar3126]

When I was in college my family planned a Disney Cruise. I was so excited to go then signed up for a program where I would be sent to Japan for 4 months to work with children. I knew this would be a once in a lifetime opportunity so I chose that. Instead of trying to cancel everything, my parents let my sisters friend come along so she has someone to ride the rides with.

A few years later my sister joined the Disney college program and now works there full time. Worked out for me because now I get cheap trips for my family and time I want!!!

Congrats to your son for making a hard choice! At my age, if I had to pick between Disney and my current job... I'd pick Disney!