Operation Gratitude: Father-in-law

Today and well every day I am so grateful for my father-in-law.  He goes above and beyond in every aspect of his life.  He serves the Lord first and then his family.  He has always made me feel loved and not so homesick.  He has helped Tyson and myself in ways I can't describe.  I can't count the hours of service he has put in around our house, whether it is helping in the yard, garage, or hanging things for me around the house.  I don't want to know how much he has spent on us on Costco runs.  He is always checking on us and making sure all of our needs our met.  I love the way he loves Gigi. He is always getting her treats and new toys.  Gigi squeals every time she sees him.  He has honestly made this pregnancy so much more manageable.  I don't know what I would do without his chiropractor.  He has literally saved my back.  He also gets me foot massages, from the relaxing station, to help relieve my swollen feet.  He's a lifesaver.  I don't know if he will ever know how much I appreciate all he does for my little family.

Our little girl is going to have one wonderful Grandpa!

Operation Gratitude: My Best Friend

As Tyson is gone tonight, at a Scout camp, I can't help but miss him like crazy.

It's so easy to take the little things for granted, like snuggling on the couch or eating dinner together.

Tyson is my best friend.  I am beyond grateful that he came into my life.  The Lord definitely knew that I needed him.  I can't think of a more perfect guy for myself.  He has been by my side through the thick and thin.  I honestly don't know how I made it without him.  He is always doing things to make my day better.  He always puts me first.  I wonder how I got so lucky.  I definitely got the better end of the stick.  He makes up for all of my imperfections.  I know he is going to make the most wonderful father and I cannot wait to see him in action. 

Tyson is my whole world, support, and backbone.  I am so blessed to be his wife.  I am eternally grateful that I get him forever. There is no greater gift.

Operation Gratitude: Gigi

Is it really already November?

I love this month.  I love the opportunity it gives me to reflect on how blessed I am.  

I am going to do my best to express the gratitude I have for so many things, over this month.

Today was an especially hard day for me.  I had to say goodbye to Gigi, not forever, but for the next 8 weeks.  She went to stay with the breeder while she has her puppies.  I have always known that this time was going to come, but I never imagined how hard it would be.

Gigi came into my life at a very crucial time.  I like to say she saved me.  I was extremely homesick and felt very alone before Tyson got me Gigi.  From the minute I got her, things changed.  She literally turned my frown upside down. 

There is nothing like coming home and having her greet me.  She is one of the happiest most loving dogs I know.   

I am a crazy dog lover and I have come to terms with this. 

One of my favorite movies and quotes ever, comes from Marley & Me....

"A dog has no use for fancy cars, big homes, or designer clothes. A water log stick will do just fine. A dog doesn't care if your rich or poor, clever or dull, smart or dumb. Give him your heart and he'll give you his. How many people can you say that about? How many people can make you feel rare and pure and special? How many people can make you feel extraordinary?"

I am grateful for my puppy and can't wait to see her as a momma.

This Is Halloween

I can't believe another Halloween has come and gone.  I am sure going to miss my Halloween decorations, around the house.

We had a fun Halloween this year.  Out of tradition and because I was asked to make dessert for the family get together, I decorated sugar cookies.  I still remember this being one of the highlights of my childhood.  My mom used to give us each a dozen cookies to frost.  I am looking forward to keeping this tradition going with my kiddos. 

We went to Tyson's parents house for dinner and indulged in yummy soups, corn bread, and salad.  Oh how I love Halloween!

I couldn't resist dressing up Gigi.  We stopped by Pet Smart and scored with a $5 costume.  Apparently, if you wait till the last minute you end up getting 75% off.  I will forever be purchasing Gigi's costumes the day of Halloween.  We surprised Tyson at work.  Tyson couldn't believe what I put her in.  The ladies at work were eating her up. 

I of course didn't get to see my cute niece and nephews, but my sister-in-law sent me this darling picture.

I am already looking forward to next year when we get to dress up the little babe.

The Final Countdown

I just had my 36 week doctors appointment.  I am 50% effaced, but not dilated any yet.

We got the best news while at the appointment, she has turned.  She is no longer breach.  That hopefully means no c-section.

My doctor gets a kick out of my swollen feet and continues to understand my pain of acid reflux. She had it as well.

She told us to get our bags packed and put the car seat in the car.  She said she could come anytime.  I haven't had any contractions, so I imagine she will be staying put for some time.

It is getting so much more real now.  We are beyond excited for this baby!

Here are some pics from the past nine months.  

Two Months

Three Months

Four Months

Five Months

Six Months

Seven Months

Eight Months

Nine Months

Let's just hope I don't make it to a 10 month photo.