so go! you will regret it later if you don't.....and i'm sure there's stuff to be done before recruitment if you are concerned with not helping out when the time comes.....but def go. flying is a b*tch, esp alone.....but you can sleep and drink and all is well before you know it!
as far as his mama....she'll get over it. just be nice and courteous and eventually, she'll realize she's not being fair.
good luck and tell us what happens!