The past few months have felt like a marathon. Now I'm on the last leg of this busy, at times stressful, beautiful journey. I've bounced back from finding out terrible news and feeling more optimistic than ever. Currently, I'm soaking in this sight...my first baby, Django, smothering my sofa in fur, having sweet puppy dreams on my throw pillows. My husband, meanwhile, mouthing every word of Forest Gump. This is our last night at home for quite some time. Bittersweet for sure. We're one step closer to meeting our baby and giving him the best medical care in the world. Yet we leave behind our dog, our comfy house, our patio with the best sunset views, our bed, our adorable baby room, our jobs, our families, our awesome friends, our world. And to add to the rollercoaster of emotions I'm feeling, I just got an email with most precious photos of my little family at our beloved little home.

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I can't wait to get back here. This morning I pulled out from our caliche drive extra slow so I could take a mental picture. While I'm going to miss this cozy space of ours, nothing can take my sights off of Houston. We're finally going to be there tomorrow and we're not leaving till we've got a healthy baby boy on our hands! To be honest, it's been nerve wrecking waiting till the 36 week mark to relocate. But every week I've checked off another ultrasound and another non-stress test. I've checked off another week of teaching, grades and a pep-rally. I've checked off another trip to Lubbock and Texas Tech football game. I've taken it day by day. Step by step (mostly waddle by waddle). It's safe to say I had some great distractions to keep my mind off of worrying.

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Besides all of the usual shenanigans that go on at school, my work family has really gone out of its way to spoil me lately. I've been showered with everything from a travel crib, to baby books, toys, clothes and even little surprises for me. They've fed me, loved on me, helped me pack. They've made me laugh and offered endless words of advice and encouragement. My fellow teachers, along with our principal, the school staff, and students have been my most loyal supporters.

Some of my work family making a surprise appearance at my baby shower in Stratford, TX

Now speaking of being showered...boy has our little W.A.S. been spoiled! We were thrown a beautiful baby shower in the home of my friend, Tracy. He received more supplies than I know what to do with! Our guy is set. On top of it all, I had several family members and friends surprise me and travel from long distances to be there for the special occasion. Guests took the time to write us special notes of encouragement and prayer. I'm so thankful for this day and the community that we live in.

Tracy and me at my shower

One week later, our dear friends in Lubbock threw us a party leading up to the Texas Tech vs. UT football game. Walter and I got to enjoy a night of catching up with some of our favorite couples and friends in the world. Naturally, our baby boy was spoiled with even more beautiful gifts. The best part of it all was just getting to visit though. Many of our friends have started families of their own. We're all so busy and seldom find the time to travel and see each other. We had time to sit back, visit, laugh, eat, and appreciate the moment. It was a much needed reunion!

Personalized treats at our shower in Lubbock, TX

It's been one heck of a run but the race isn't over yet. Now I plan on pacing myself and hopefully cruising past the finish line with as little stress as possible in a few weeks. Our plans in Houston include settling into our apartment, hitting up the zoo and a couple museums, going to the doctor several times a week, and hopefully making just as many visits to Target and the Galleria. I won't mind sleeping in a little bit and camping out on the couch either! I should also mention that the fun isn't over for our closest loved ones. They'll be visiting through the holidays to keep us entertained and help out when baby comes. We can't thank them enough!

William Agustin's Nursery

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