My grandson's birthday is coming up

My grandson's birthday is coming up.  His father will not be there.  His father may not even be able to call him.  This will be momumental..  All his grandparents will be attending whatever activities will happen.  Those are not yet scheduled as things are a bit distracted.  But I am willing to bet that this grandson, the one who would not speak to David on the phone, will not think it much of a birthday without his father.   I have found the perfect gift,  a recordable book,  "Guess How Much I Miss You", that I plan for David to record.  But it is very much in doubt that it will be able to happen for his birthday.  That too is depressing, for myself and the thoughts of this upcoming birthday.

We are in doubt as to when David will be able to return home for a visit.  Whether after boot or after AIT training,  we are unsure.  We are also not able to afford for all of us to visit him at graduation, even with my American Express member rewards points.  So, how to best solve this dilemma.  Perhaps to drive there?  But gas prices are horrendous and I do not have a hybrid.  The train?  While we'd all love it,  I don't think that's affordable, either.  So far,  details have yet to come from the Army or whomever.  I will be surfing many blogs to see if there are any suggestions or solutions out there.  Graduation date nebulous but I think we have about two months to solve this.  Stay tuned.