time for an update

Gabe had his tubes put in a week and a half ago and so far, so good. He's already making progress. He has begun clarifying his speech (he doesn't say ti ti anymore, he now says choo choo) and has said a few new words (blue.) Cool story: Aaron suprised me by getting home literally as we were walking out the door to the surgery, so he came along. When we got to the clinic all was well and a few minutes later Gabe started yelling "papa! papa!" (At the time it sounded more like "ba ba!" but he has since clarified it to papa.) We had no clue what he was doing until... lo and behold... my dad showed up! So awesome and such a blessing. Gabe wasn't happy after he woke up from the anesthesia so we were so thankful for the extra help!

We went to Utah for the 4th of July and it was pretty fun. Claire played basketball and relaxed with Hailey, Gabe and Jackson watched lots of movies in the Black's movie theatre, and we all got to hang out and enjoy a few days with the Holkers. The only bad part was we didn't get to see Stadium of Fire with Carrie Underwood because of Gabe's recent surgery.

Aaron and my dad also finished Gabe's swing set. Honestly, it is a piece of junk. We got it from Walmart and the wood is SO cheap. It says it's for ages 5-10, but I'm pretty sure anyone older than 3 might break it. At least he likes it now.

For the first time ever, I won a giveaway! Natalie from The Busy Budgeting Mama held a giveaway for a fashionable baby sling and I won this sling. I can't wait to try it out! Thanks Natalie and Mrs. D'arcy!

On a sad note, Pete isn't doing so well. I thought I was going to head home today to see him (it seemed like he was going to have to be put down in a day or two...) but he seems to be recovering. Fingers crossed that he can pull through! He's the only dog I've ever had and he's part of the family, even if his role changed after Gabe and Claire came along.

Speaking of Gabe, he went back to IN with my parents today. Aaron, Claire, and I are heading home this weekend for Elizabeth and Sam's wedding. I miss the little guy, but I'm loving the down time. He sure loves to push my buttons! :-)

Jenn comes into town for a few days tomorrow! Can't wait to see her. It has been far too long.

Last but not least, I am now a Sam's Club member. BEST. PURCHASE. EVER. Totally alleviates my grocery shopping phobia and the need to coupon!

Have a great Monday!