So, I have this cousin.

She, alongside her Marine husband battled infertility for 6 {yes SIX!} years.

After the many ups and downs and doctor appointments and treatments, they find out she’s expecting!

Only then finds out that her husband, less than a year after returning from his last deployment and about a month before their miracle baby is due, is being deployed again for the umpteenth time {seriously, I’ve lost count how many times he’s been deployed}.

He will spend the first 5 months of their miracle baby’s life overseas somewhere fighting for our country.

And she will spend the first 5 months of their miracle baby’s life going it alone.

Anyway, here’s my tip for you.

Do not, I repeat, DO NOT, sit in your car in the grocery store of the parking lot and watch the video your cousin posted on facebook of  her Marine husband returning home from deployment and meeting their 5 month old baby for the first time.

Because you will bawl your eyes out.

And it will be a loud, ugly cry.

And tears will fall on your 33 week belly and soak your shirt.

And snot will run down nose.

And you won’t be able to find a tissue.

And you’ll still have to go into the grocery store to get those 3 things you absolutely have to have for the dinner your are hosting that night.

Then people will look at you funny for walking through the grocery store with your sunglasses on.

Seriously, just don’t do it.

You’re welcome.

*****

Side note? I am in awe of the strength some people have. Military families. Families struggling with infertility. I have so, SO much respect and admiration for every single one of you.

Especially you, my amazing cousin.