Oddly, I just logged into my account to find the blog already updated. Funny, I've been bugging Dustin to be a guest author on the blog for quite sometime. Guess neither of us can sleep.
I would apologize for not blogging, but I'm not sorry. I have had an emotional, overwhelming, stressful, incredible couple of weeks. Want me to tell you some of my favorite things that have happened? OK, I will. You're welcome for talking about myself. I know you heart it.
Because you love it so much, I think I'll keep you on your toes, make things interesting and do it in no particular order.
1) School is over for the semester. And for seven weeks. No more stress after/during/before work.
2) Tonight, as we were swimming with my family in the hotel pool in Provo, I kept making eye contact with Dustin from across the room (he was being attacked by Josh). Every time I looked at him he would grin. And not just a smile. It was a full on, grin from ear-to-ear, melt your heart smile.
3) I moved out of single student housing. Forever. (I won't lie, I was a lot nostalgic as I left.)
4) My neighbors have been such a part of my reception.
5) My mom has given up everything even somewhat important to her, in order to make me happy. It's killing her off, and she's still doing it. There's not many women like that.
6) Dustin introduces himself to me over text message saying, "Hi, I'm going to marry you."
7) And sometimes he texts me and simply lets me know he's "so, so excited."
8) My apartment is really cute for a small, 2-bedroom apartment.
9) Morgan did 100 nails tonight in order to make sure everyone had pretty nails. My siblings all rock. They're all so excited for me. They've all given up everything to have me be happy.
10) For my bachelorette party tonight, the boys went next door to Arby's and brought back late night snacks.
11) I went to the temple to receive my endowment. Never have I felt such a spirit. Never have I known so many people loved me. So much.
12) After the endowment we went to Red Robin. This was because I love salt and french fries.
13) Patty offered to buy sushi for everyone. Simply because I love it. How sweet is that?
14) I got my hair done. Dustin loves the color. I love when he not only notices, but noticably loves it.
15) We are cute and pack overnight bags together.
16) I had to find flat sandal to go with my dress to make it long enough. My feet thank me in advance.
17) My Aunt, Uncle, and cousins save the day again. Folks, they're not just coming tomorrow. They're coming again for the reception in a week. That a lot of driving. In only a couple weeks. I wish we could tell them how much they really save the day.
18) I'm not nervous at all. Why be nervous about spending the rest of my life with my best friend?
19) I'm really tired, but I don't want to sleep. I'm too excited.
20) Today my mom noticed I was realizing this is really happening. She saw me staring out the window. Quiet. That's not like me to be quiet.
21) My bouquet is gorgeous. Way better than I expected.
22) My dad thanked me for making it to the temple. That meant a lot. It's been my goal for as long as I can remember to be like and please him.
23) Tomorrow I get married in the temple of my dreams. Not only that, but it will last forever. That means For-ev-er.
So many good things have happened. I can't even scratch the surface. So many more are to come.
Tomorrow I become Mrs. Dustin John Ackerman. I couldn't be happier.
Dear Future Alyssa Ackerman,
You're the luckiest girl in the entire world. Count your blessings everyday. There are so many of them. I already know. You will be spoiled, and loved beyond your wildest dreams.
And, don't forget those who got you there. Or those who will keep you there. Thank God everyday for families, they will always mean the world to you. Be careful what you say to them. Let them know always have you feel about them.
Alyssa, enjoy tomorrow. It will be the happiest day of your life.
Now, lay down and try to sleep. You'll be grateful when you don't have to cover up shadows under your eyes in the morning.
Good luck.
Yours Truly (literally)
