Hurley

Hurley is my first baby. And he's a big baby! Take a look for yourself at how he's grown...

Then...

and now...

I need to fix his eyes in this picture!

He's currently around 80 lbs and is only 10 months!!

I always wanted a dog growing up, but a hamster was the closest I ever got. After meeting the dog that Eric grew up with, I fell in love with black labs. We played around with the idea of getting our own for a while, but it wasn't until this past summer when we happened to stumble upon labs for sale that we really considered the idea.

I was so excited to get our puppy. I couldn't wait for all the picture perfect moments such as going on walks, playing, snuggling...but it was that first weekend after getting him where I got a dose of reality and just a little glimpse of what it would be like to have a baby. Don't get me wrong...I loved the little guy but I had no idea what I was getting myself into! Puppies are hard work!! I found myself sleep deprived, exhausted, and overemotional. Seriously, I good reminder of how I'm ok with waiting to have a baby for now! It has definitely been a good first step toward preparing for having kids. That is something I want more than anything and am so excited for when the time comes...but for now, I am absolutely content with having it be our small little family of three. He's teaching me a lot about patience and selflessness.

Although it hasn't been the easiest road (and he's still a puppy with lots of energy!), it has been a fun ride and he is a blessing to us. Of course, the potty training and transitioning of now sleeping out of his kennel and in our room at night helps! He has provided us with so much joy, laughter, and love. He is our buddy and there is nothing better than always having someone that's excited to see you when you come home. He is loyal and has the best little personality. Ollie (our nephew) is in love...he made Hurley a valentine before anyone else! It's so much fun when our little guy provides joy for others too. My favorite moments are when he lets me just sit and kiss and kiss and kiss his soft and floppy ears.

I'm excited for the moments and memories to come. I am sure I will have lots of stories to tell you in the future. For now, thank you Hurley for helping me be a better person and for starting to groom me for motherhood :)

The day we got him!!

Hurley and mommy on my bday this year.

P.S. What special buddies do you have in your life? Tell me stories!! Any helpful tips are welcomed as well! :)