Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Surprise!

Stephen and I are engaged!!!


I get to marry this amazing man... 
The most patient, selfless, and loving man I know. 
I am one lucky girl


I know, I've been holding out on you guys... 
I'm sorry!
He proposed on a trail while we were in Gatlinburg. 
I had no idea... my Daddy was the only person who knew.
He totally kept it from my mom, too! 
She was as surprised as me!
(and as always, she was the picture taker:)


 It was so beautiful.  
And there were butterflies... EVERYWHERE.  
We literally had to avoid stepping on them while we were on the trail. 
It was the most beautiful and perfect place. 

I've posted this picture below on Facebook, and I've had some people ask me if it was photoshopped. 
It's NOT photoshopped.  
Stephen stuck his hand out and one little butterfly crawled right up onto his hand :) 
And then it let me stick my hand in, and stayed long enough for my mom to snap some pictures! 
There was nothing more comforting.
Just more proof that my little man approves. 


Stephen was there for me through the worst possible time of my life. 
He took care of Tripp and me in a way I never thought would be possible. 
And he's still taking care of me.  


I'm marrying into an amazing family that I've known my entire life. 
God knew the people that I needed in my life at the right time. 
I'm counting my blessings for sure.  
Every milestone for me will be bittersweet, of course... because I can't share it with Tripp. 
But I know my baby boy is looking down and is proud of his Mommy. 
And I think he knows that I am being taken care of in the best possible way.  
Just as he was... 




Thank you all for your continued prayers, love and support.


Love, 
Photobucket

264 comments:

  1. Congratulations! You deserve it!

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  2. Congratulations!! I am so happy for you :-).

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  3. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!! While I'm sure there are many days you don't feel like smiling, you deserve a MILLION of them in your lifetime Courtney. I hope the next hundred years treat you and your loved ones amazingly!!!

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  4. Congrats!!! You deserve to be so happy!

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  5. Congratulations Courtney! I am so happy that God has blessed you with such a loving companion. The photos of the butterfly in your hands is so beautiful. Much love <3

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  6. Congrats to you guys! no one deserves happiness more!

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  7. You are amazing! I am so excited that you have someone to lean on; someone that understands and has been there with you during your toughest days. Sit back, relax, enjoy and embrace. A new adventure is in the works! Congratulations!

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  8. I am SOOOOO happy for you! The butterfly and Stephen wearing the Tripp bracelet just make that picture completely tear-inducing! You are absolutely right about God providing what you needed right when you needed it. I am so unbelievably happy for you. If anyone deserves these bright rays of sunshine, it is you. My kids are still praying every night that "Tripp is having a wonderful time in heaven and that his mommy is healing her heart on earth", and I can't wait to share this news with them. :-)

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  9. A thousand congratulations to you! Your story has touched my heart and I can't express how happy and wonderful it is to hear you are engaged to an amazing person. I wish you a wonderful marriage and many happy years ahead of you.

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  10. OH MY GOSH!!!!!!!!!!!!! Congratulations to you both!!! I'm so very, very happy for you. God is so good!

    Love Always-
    Mary and Baby Jackson

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  11. Congrats! So happy for you :)

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  12. I am so happy for you two. This brought tears of happiness. Continued prayers for you all.

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    1. Brought tears to my eyes too. I'm continuing to pray for them also. Love is so strong. It amazes me.

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  13. I don't think I have ever commented before but if not, this is the best post to be my first! Congratulations to both of you! I pray that God will bless you in this journey and I know that you will be rewarded not only in heaven but on earth for the sacrifices you made for that precious baby. God bless

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  14. Congratulations on your engagement! As you walk along life's path. Together hand in hand, May God's blessings be upon you in everything you plan.

    It's so nice to see you happy.

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  15. You deserve to be happy more than anyone! And what a perfect engagement! Tripp makes a beautiful butterfly. I'm glad he approves <3

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  16. Congratulations and best wishes! You deserve all the love and happiness you can cram into your life! God Bless your life and marriage!

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  17. Congratulations! Best wishes to you both!
    Elizabeth in NC
    PS - Butterflies are definitely a sign that Tripp approves!

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  18. Okay....I'm crying for you, here, this morning. I'm so thankful for your announcement, thankful that you have a good man in your life, thankful that he knew and loved Tripp too. He's been tested, he's walked thru this with you....what a grace and mercy in your life. What an amazing person he must be - which is good, because - you and Tripp and your family are amazing people. :)

    Thanks for sharing this beautiful (and bittersweet) time with us, Courtney. You are so loved and still prayed for.

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  19. Congratulations, Courtney and Stephen! God bless both of you on your new life together as husband and wife. I know Tripp DEFINITELY approves and is very happy for you! <3

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  20. OMG! Congrats and this was probably one of the most exciting things ever. I squelled for you right at my desk!

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  21. AMAZING the way God works. I am so happy for you, Courtney. You deserve NOTHING but happiness.

    Angelle Farrell

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  22. My heart is so amazingly full for you right now. Butterflies are a huge deal for us too after my mom passed, so that just makes it all the more special. I am so thrilled for this new chapter of your life, and agree that Tripp could not be more happy for his mommy to find some peace and happiness. He will always be with you!

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  23. Congratulations Courtney!! No one deserves happiness more!

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  24. OMG I'm excited for you! CONGRATS!!!!! It does seem that you have an amazing man! I wish you the best.. please keep us updated

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  25. Congrats Courtney! I have followed your journey for a long time now and it warms my heart that you have found some happiness through this difficult time! Best wishes to you, Tripp is smiling down on his mommy and is rejoicing with the Lord!

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  26. Congratulations! You deserve a lifetime of happiness.

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  27. Congratulations to you both!!! And I agree, Tripp is super proud of his mommy!!!
    My prayers for you always!!

    Stacey

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  28. Wonderful!!! I am thrilled beyond thrilled for you! Congratulations to you both! Your ring is a stunner!
    Beautiful pics, Tripp working his magic from heaven : )
    ~tracey

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  29. So excited!!!!!!! Just emailed you!!!

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  30. Oh my goodness!! Congratulations! The picture of your hands and the butterfly and the Tripp bracelet....priceless!! And perfect! I would get that framed! He definitely approves!

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  31. Congratulations! For the first time in a while, I sense such happiness in your writing. God always has a plan! Overjoyed that he put you two together. And yes, looks like Tripp is so happy for his Mommy! You always deserve the best!

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  32. Congrata! Noone deserves this more than you!
    Your little man is looking down on you and smiling!! N

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  33. Congratulations, wish you all the best! :)

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  34. Tears of joy! The butterfly story is what did it! Just one of those miraculous signs from God that your angel is with you always and is so happy for his momma! What a beautiful couple and a special man indeed. You are both blessed!

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  35. Congrats! How beautiful that Tripp was there with you for this special time! I wish you guys all the best!

    Hugs!
    Chrissy

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  36. Congratulations! I am so happy for you and wish you all the best. That butterfly picture is amazing.

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  37. Congratulations! I'm so happy for you!

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  38. Courtney, your story continues to touch my heart!! There is absolutely no doubt that Tripp is with you every single moment of every single day, and more than ever in those moments with the butterfly on your hands. I know he is so proud of the woman and mother you are. Congratulations!! It is so wonderful to see you smile!

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  39. I'm so, so happy for you! I was hoping this was coming! Congratulations! !!!

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  40. Congratulations! You know you found the perfect Prince Charming when he's gone through your deepest valley with you and stuck by your side. Wishing you the greatest blessings that only God can provide.

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  41. Many congrats! Beautiful picture!
    God is good!

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  42. Congratulations! The photo with the butterfly is beautiful, and a true sign that Tripp was there with you.

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  43. Congratulations!! Even though it is hard to see sometimes...God truly knows what he is doing and I am so happy to see that you Steven and your butterfly Tripp got to share that moment together! What an AMAZING moment!!!! Many blessings to you and your family!!

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  44. Congratulations. That picture was amazing!

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    1. Congratulations Courtney! How amazing and beautiful that Tripp was right there with you!

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  45. Congratulations!! this is so exciting!! May God bless you guys with a wonderful life together :)

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  46. Congratulations!! You deserve all the happiness in the world!! You guys are such a cute couple!

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  47. Thrilled for you and the butterfly picture gave me chills. Amazing!! Tripp is definitely looking down, beaming and playing his drums!! Congratulations! He sounds like a wonderful man!

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  48. Your ring is beautiful and I am SO happy for you :) you so deserve this, God is faithful to His own. Smiling and praising God this morning, for you :) love to you ! XO

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  49. Oh my heart! Congratulations!!!

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  50. This is a BEAUTIFUL picture. It is something I would deff frame and keep as an everyday memory, you were all 3 together again!! Your fiances a great man for sticking by your side through all and not giving up when you were at your worse.

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  51. Love to you Courtney...and CONGRATS!! The butterfly photo is simply beautiful and bought tears to my eyes. You are such an amazing person, and so inspiring. Im sure Tripp has the biggest smile EVER. Still praying for you...I hope that God continues to wrap his loving, comforting arms around you. I pray also that you feel all the love and prayers that are cosntantly being said for you. We know that Tripp is happy and at peace, and right where he wants to be...and that alone is so very comforting...Love and prayers always....

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  52. Courtney! I am soooooo happy for you! God has a plan for everything. I am crying as i read you latest blog over and over and the pictures speak volumes! Your little man is happy and I am so glad you got to see his happiness through the beautiful butterflies. When I see a butterfly I always think of Tripp. God bless and I know your journey will be filled with love, peace and comfort. {)i(}

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  53. Congratulations. I love that if we look, we can ALWAYS see God's hand in everything that we do. Tripp is certainly proud of his Mommy! You don't know me, but I am honored to pray for you continually!

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  54. So excited for you Courtney and Stephen! You are blessed! And yes, that picture was awesome.

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  55. So over the top excited for you! Congrats!!!

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  56. Congrats!!!! What an amazing blessing.

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  57. Ι am so happy for you-you deserve such love.
    To show his love by standing by you is the best, the only real proof of love.
    My best wishes for both of you.

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  58. Congulations!!! I am very happy for the both of you and I just couldn't believe all of those beautiful butterflies. Courtney, I want you to know I think you are amazing and I love following your blog and will continue to follow it. Nikki

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  59. Ahhh! I'm so thrilled to bits for you! That is such amazing news. No one deserves this excitement and joy more than you. The photo with the butterfly and band with Tripp is perfection!

    KK

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  60. You have no idea who I am, but your journey as a mother has inspired me in countless ways, and changed the way I look at my own children. I am so incredibly happy for you; to find a man who would support you and Tripp in the way he did shows that you two truly have a connection and a deep love.

    I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes (at work... should not read blogs at work, lol!) for you, of happiness. I wish you two an eternity of joy.

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  61. Congratulations! And Tripp is definitely with you guys as you begin this amazing journey....the butterfly reaffirms that!

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  62. Congratulations!! I am so happy for you and Stephen. I think about you often and am always hoping you are doing okay. The butterfly picture is amazing. Tripp loves you and will always be there for you in some way. You deserve such happiness Courtney. I hope you keep blogging to share your next journey with us.

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  63. SO HAPPY FOR YOU!! God is SO VERY GOOD! I got goose bumps seeing the butterfly pics. AMAZING!

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  64. so happy for you!! so glad god placed stephen in your life! i wish you a lifetime of happiness!!

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  65. Congratulations Courtney u deserve happniess after your loss of your beautiful child hes smiling down at u from heaven

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  66. I am SO happy for you!!! And the picture is just beautiful. I am glad Tripp could "be" there with you both.

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  67. Congratulations! I LOVED the butterfly pics!

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  68. Congratulations and Praise The Lord! I pray a life full of love, happiness, and blessings on you and Stephan!

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  69. Courtney, I am so happy and excited for you. I have been following your story for several years. I would like to offer my services for photography for your wedding, at no cost. If you already have someone, or pick a date that I am not available, either myself or someone on my team would be happy to do engagements, bridals, whatever you need. If you are interested this is our website www.studiotran.com and you can email me at corine @ studiotran.com Thank you for continuing to share your story and many blessings to you and your family.

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  70. Congratulations and Praise the Lord! I pray many years of love, joy, and happiness for you and Stephen!

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  71. Congratulations Courtney! I am so very happy for you! I really think the butterfly was Tripp's way of telling you he approves. Much love to both of you and God Bless!

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  72. CONGRATULATIONS!!!! So happy for you!! You SO deserve it...Tripp is smiling down at you, and the butterfly was a sign that he approved....God Bless You!!!

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  73. Congrats, I am so excited for you. I Love the picture of your hands and the butterfly.....Tripp definitely approves.
    May God continue to Bless you !!

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  74. Congrats! WIshing you & Stephen a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and love!

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  75. Yay! Yay! Yay! Yay!!!! I'm so happy for you & I know your little man is, too. This is wonderful news. It makes my heart smile. :)

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  76. Congratulations! So very happy for you! You deserve this :) I know Tripp and the Lord will bless your marriage.

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  77. So so happy for you both. Congrats.The butterfly pics so re enforced Gods presence thru Tripp.It is pure love!!!!

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  78. CONGRATS!!! That's one amazing man you have there! I love that Tripp approved in such an amazing way!

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  79. Congratulations!!!!! I am so happy for you! As everyone has said and I agree you deserve it! I can't think of anyone who deserves it more than you. You are the most selfless person I have ever seen. You are a true inspiration to everyone. Tripp is so proud of you! God Bless You and Your family!

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  80. What wonderful news! Thank you for sharing such beautiful photos. In the photo with the butterfly, such a profound moment, it brought tears to my eyes. I'm so happy for all of you. God does work in mysterious ways. It's truly a blessing! I pray you and Stephen have a very long and happy life together. God bless you both.

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  81. WOO HOO!!!! Happy tears today - am thrilled for you and Stephen! May God continue to bless you both.

    Love from TX,
    Laura

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  82. Congratulations! You deserve all the joy in the world!! I am tearing up just thinking about how much you deserve for someone to love and take care of you just as you did for Tripp. What an incredible journey that led you to Stephen-- how amazing is our God! I wish you both nothing but the best, and ALL the happiness and blessings God has to offer!

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  83. Tears in my eyes when I saw that butterfly! You don't find many men like Stephen. You are one lucky woman and he was sent to you by God just when you needed him. It's so sweet to know Tripp approves :)

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  84. Congratulations!!!! Wishing you both all of the happiness that God has to give!

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  85. Congrats! So happy for you and Stephen! And the beauty of the engagement and photos! Thanks so much for sharing~ We still keep you in our prayers every night.

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  86. I'm another stranger reading your blog at work, and I also have tears in my eyes. Congratulations!

    I also want you to know that I adopted a beautiful baby boy who was born on May 14th this year. It's a special day for sure.

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  87. CONGRATULATIONS! You deserve all of the most beautiful things in the world!

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  88. OH MY! Congratulations! The pics with you holding hands and the butterfly - sniff, sniff - absolutely breathtaking and beautiful. Wow - just so happy for you both! God bless.

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  89. I'm so happy for you. The picture with the butterfly just gave me goose bumps. I can't think of a better way for Tripp to let you know he's there and happy for you two. Congratulations!

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  90. I'm so incredibly happy for you!! Congrats and best wishes for a lifetime of happiness!! Thanks for continuing to share your life with us. I have a pic of baby Tripp in my home and I'm constantly reminded of both yours and his unconditional love.

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  91. I promptly burst into tears when I saw the word "butterflies". We raise monarchs as a hobby in the summer time and I thought of Tripp as our babies emerged this past week. . . so when I saw this, it really, really struck home! What a gift. I rejoice with you---and yet, still pray for your healing. Hugs!

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  92. OMG! This was the last thing I expected when I checked in on your blog this afternoon. How exciting! Congratulations!!!

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  93. congratulations! you deserve some happiness in your life... may the Lord bless this marriage & your lives together!

    just wondering, from what i understand (i could be wrong) for a baby to be born with EB there have to be the genes for it in BOTH parents. if this is correct, is there a test you could do to see if he has that gene? i know it would be scary to think of having another child who suffers & then goes Home before you do.

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  94. Courtney,

    Please let us know as soon as you pick a date. We would love to produce your wedding video.

    Take care,

    Chad & Dayna Dyle
    www.dylefilms.com

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  95. Congratulations!!! You and Stephen are so blessed to have each other in your lives. Butterflies always seem to fly by the at just the right time. They are a great symbol of our guardian angels, and I bet those butterflies was Tripp sending his love and excitement for you guys as he watches you from above. -Beautiful moment-

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  96. Congratulation from Germany too...

    I am so happy for both of you...

    what a wonderful picture with the butterfly...

    Tripp is sure watching over you...

    Andrea

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  97. Congratulations!!

    Butterflies symbolizes change.

    First of all the butterfly symbolizes new life from an old one. Seeing that the color black is a strong yet subtle color, the black butterfly symbolizes the new strong but subtle life after a period of transformation.

    Found that information on the web...and so true for your future!!! Many years of happiness and love for you:)

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  98. Congratulations!! You deserve all the happiness in the world!!

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  99. Congratulations to you both! What wonderful news. And that picture of your hands with the butterfly....can we just say that gave me chills!! You deserve all the happiness in the world and I am so incredibly happy for you! God Bless you both and your families.

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  100. Congratulations! You deserve so much love and happiness!!! Happy wedding planning! I am positive your sweet son is smiling on you both with love.

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  101. Courtney, I am SO THRILLED for you and Stephen ... it's just wonderful that you've found such happiness in this area of your life. And I truly believe that Tripp gave you his blessing ... in so many ways, but the butterflies just cemented it. How absolutely amazing.

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  102. Congratulatoins!!! What a blessing!!

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  103. Congratulations, wonderful news!!!
    The pic with you holding hands and the butterfly is beautiful and meaningful: Tripp is always with you and he always will be and I bet he is happy for his mom and his stepdad-to-be. I'm a total stranger, but I'm really happy for you, too.

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  104. Most of all, Tripp would want the one person he loved the most, his mommy, to be happy! Congratulations!!

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  105. Congrats, dear Courtney!!! You deserve it more than anyone I know! I am sure Tripp is so happy to see you taken care of and being loved! :)

    Hugs

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  106. Words can't express how happy I am for the two of you! How perfect that Tripp was there with you in spirit (as a butterfly). You have found an amazing person in Stephen and it's obvious that you have Tripp's blessing. Congratulations again and I wish you and Stephen nothing buy happiness.

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  107. CONGRATULATIONS!!! I don't even know you but I've had this overwhelming feeling this post was coming. You deserve this happiness and I know Tripp is excited for you. You and Stephen have been through so much together and if you can get through all of that, you will be together forever. God bless you both

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  108. I am so, so happy for you. You said Stephen was an amazing selfless man... well, those are the same words I've used to describe YOU! I can't begin to express how highly I think of you and how much I think you deserve this wonderful new chapter. I am so glad you've found one another.

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  109. CONGRATS!!! That is the sweetest thing ever!!!

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  110. yea!! i am so happy for you! and that picture with the butterfly is amazing and i know tripp is so proud and SO happy for you!!!

    you deserve some HAPPY and i am so glad you found someone to share your life with!

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  111. Congratulations! Wonderful news. You deserve some happiness. Isn't it amazing that I write like I know you and I've met you in person? I feel like I do know you. We are both angel mommies. My son passed away when he was ten weeks old from a heart defect. I too cherish all the little signs my youngest son is sending to us. I too think of butterflies, but also everytime I see a beautiful sunrise or sunset...I just know it's my little man sending his love.

    XOXO.

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  112. Congrats, you two! I'm so happy for you both, and wish you nothing but a lifetime of health and happiness. :)

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  113. Sweet, gentle Tripp. How very like him to let you know that he was right there with you. Congratulations on your engagement. You deserve happiness.

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  114. I'm so happy for you! Those pictures are awesome!

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  115. This post has me in tears. I am do amazingly happy for you Courtney. You deserve to have happiness in your life every single day. He has been thru the worst with you, he has been your rock, and your soft place to land. I am so very happy for you. I can't wait to see weddi h pictures :)

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  116. So happy for you and your family! God has a special plan for you and it is a beautiful one!
    Congratulations!!!

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  117. Congratulations Courtney! I had tears of joy for you and yoour fiance, The pictures are beautiful <3

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  118. Congratulations on your happy news!!Praying for your happiness and good days to come!!
    Best,
    holly:)

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  119. Yaaaay!!! Congratulations Courtney & Stephen!!!! So very, very, very happy for you both!!! The Butterfly was just beautiful and a perfect touch to such a treasured moment in your lives!!!

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  120. Congratulations to you all! I am so happy for you, you deserve all the happiness in the world! And yes, your special angel was right there with you- sharing in your joy. God is so good!

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  121. Congratulations to all of you! I am so very happy for you- you deserve all the happiness in the world! And yes, your special angel was right there with you- sharing in your joy. God is so good!

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  122. So glad for this joy in your life. The butterfly sitting on Stephen's hand is just a miracle. Best wishes for a lifetime of love!!

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  123. I am elated for you Courtney! You deserve only the best and I think you have it. God sure does work in strange ways and He always gets the job done. Hugs to all of y'all. And yes, Tripp is drumming a new song for his mom and step-dad with his approval.
    Edmay Mayers

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  124. That is so great! Congratulations, you deserve to be happy with someone who has been there for you through it all!

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  125. Congratulations! Such exciting news! Wishing you both a lifetime of love together xo

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  126. Congratulations!!!! This is an amazing gift from God!

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  127. My biggest congratulations to both of you! I saw the ring and was so happy, scrolled down and saw the butterfly and a huge smile came on my face. We released monarch butterflies at my best friends funeral and I think of her every time I see one. To see the monarch butterfly on your hands and Tripps name on the bracelet just gives me chills. God bless you and always know that Tripp was there with you in that happy moment. Right there in your hands.

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  128. That's so great, Courtney. You deserve it. Congrats.
    Love and many prayers.

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  129. Congratulations! You deserve so much to be happy:) Cheers!!

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  130. Congratulations to you both! It's obvious you have both been blessed with beautiful partners. :) I don't know you personally, but this warms my heart and I am so, so happy for you. The picture with the butterfly is amazing!

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  131. Truly amazing picture. One to cherish... Congratulations on your engagement. Truly deserved by both of you!

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  132. Congratulations! You totally deserve this bit of happiness. I'm sure Tripp had something to do with it and is just as excited as you!

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  133. Hi Courtney,

    I am so happy for you that you have found the man of your dreams.
    I am wishing all the best in your life.
    I was so amazed to see that butterfly. It's really a sign of Tripp's approval.

    Tripp really wanted her mommy to be happy.
    May God Bless you all!

    Regards,
    Nina

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  134. I follow a few blogs and I somethings wonder how I can feel so close to some people i don't know and probably will never know.. But trust me when I say I am sitting here blubbering with happiness for you and Stephen.. How exciting for you.. and those butterflies surely were Tripp sending his approval.. and the ring is beautiful!!!!

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  135. Congratulations!!! I am so very happy for the both of you. I know that this was all a plan that God and Tripp worked on together :)

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  136. So happy for you and Stephen! I'm glad you are blessed to marry a man who was there during your struggles as Tripp got sicker and understands how your time with him is part of what makes you the beautiful strong woman you are today.

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  137. How wonderful! Congratulations, and prayers for a life of joy, commitment, integrity, and endurance. May the Lord bless and protect this union.

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  138. Congratulations!! Wishing for many years of happiness for both of you. When I saw the butterfly on your hand, I am absolutely positive it is Tripp's spirit.
    My husband used to kid me when we walked--every time we saw a butterfly, he would look at me and ask "Who is that?" because I always believed that butterflies are spirits. The day after my husband died, I had to call AAA to change a flat tire on his car. While the tire changer guy was changing the tire, I sat on the front porch---a beautiful red butterfly landed about 3 feet from me and sat there the whole time the tire was being changed. As soon as the tire was changed, the butterfly gracefully flew off. I have tried to find that same butterfly on the internet and have been unsuccessful finding one exactly like it. This was the end of October in Michigan when there normally are no butterflies.

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  139. Oh sweetie honey I am SOOOO overjoyed for you! I always feel like I can get to "know" people through photos and instantly I felt a great vibe from your new love, he is strong, faithful, and loving and deserves one amazing and inspirational woman...a woman who also deserves it all! Can't wait to see your journey continue to unfold from afar!!!!! All my love and congrats!

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  140. CONGRATULATIONS! I am so happy for you. Also, would you please say a prayer for me too? I lost my beautiful daughter on July 16 on her 30th birthday to a hit and run driver who has not been apprehended. I am so devastated and sad. If anyone is interested, google "Claire Rose Hit and Run Santa Monica". There were many news reports. My life is upside down now but I draw strength from the Lord.

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  141. Congratulations on your engagement! Wishing you much happiness!

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  142. Congrats!! Your ring is so beautiful! I can see the happiness in your smile :)

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  143. this warms my heart!!! im so happy that you've found a man whi has already been through the worst time in your life, and is now ready and wanting to spend amazing times with you...
    tripp is ready to play music for your ceremony from Heaven... :)

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  144. {AHEM - AS I CHOKE BACK THE TEARS!}

    I am so elated for you! As grief stricken as I was (and still am to this day) to hear that God brought Tripp home back in January - on the opposite end of the spectrum I am THAT thrilled for you about your engagement, and that it is to Stephen. Do I know him? No. Do I know you? No. But, I like countless others, have hung on every word and thought that you express(ed) on your blog for the past 1.5ish years. As of recent I have pondered (try not to doubt) God's "reasoning" why 2 very close people in my life have recently been diagnosed with Cancer, I am greateful for your story that strikes down any questioning that I have about God's love for us. Seriously! I think back through your posts over the past year and am reminded just how much God never leaves us or forsakes us, even in the midst of my questioning Him? I love the fact that He brought Stephen into your life while Tripp was here as opposed to later down the road. I can imagine that He was laying the groundwork for the marriage that He knew all along was to come... allowing Stepen to get to see just what an angel Tripp was(still is!), to see the joy that Tripp brought to your life, to be there for you when you needed an earthly rock in human form to lean upon at life's worst imaginable time, and to show you that in spite of there being a major hole in your heart that He will one day in His time bring joy to you again. I just learned of this engagement news while glancing through facebook and when I saw Prayers For Tripp post, I just lost it. Isn't it just like God to remind us of WHO HE ALWAYS IS through a single blog photo stating I"M engaged - indicating that someone that I have prayed fervently for for the past 1.5 years now has a genuine smile on her face! I know that things are bittersweet right now with your thoughts and emotions. I will continue praying for your peace and for the days ahead for you and Stephen to have a wonderful marriage. There are no words to say how happy I am for you! God bless you Courtney!
    Kelley in Baton Rouge

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  145. Congratulations to both you and Stephen! <3

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  146. I'm shedding yet more tears! Only this time they are tears of happiness! The butterfly picture is one of the most beuatiful things I've ever seen. Tripp was right there with you as he always will be. x

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  147. The smile on your face is awesome. Congratulations.

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  148. I am soooo happy for you, Congratulations!!!
    You deserve it, Tripp must be so happy for you too!!! Lots of love from Spain

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  149. Congratulations! Your future husband is the lucky one. You are the best Mommy I know. Please just be happy you deserve it. Tripp wants his Mom happy.

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  150. Congratulations!!!!!

    That most be one of the most amazing pictures I have seen in long time. I am so happy for you two and that pic shows that Tripp is following you in every step you take.

    HUGS Malin

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  151. Congratulations!! In Italy when a butterfly comes around like that it is believed to be relative who has passed. No doubt it was Tripp.

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  152. You don't know me, but I've been following your sad, but beautiful story for a very long time. I've never commented on your blog even though I've prayed for you and Tripp many many times. I just have to say congratulations to you. You're so deserving of everything good and pure. I wish you many years of happiness with this wonderful man that God sent to you at just the right time. Your strength is an inspiration to me as I travel down a road w/ my own special needs son. God Bless.

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  153. So happy for you Courtney. I am so glad that God has placed a loving, supportive and giving man in your life!!! Of course Tripp approves! That was such a beautiful photo!

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  154. That is the greatest news! That butterfly was sent by Tripp, I just know it. Congratulations all around.

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  155. OMG, congrats. So happy. Crying tears of joy for you. God Bless you and Stephen, we all know Tripp approves. Can't wait to see pics of the wedding.

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  156. Wow - that is great news! He sounds like a wonderful man and I am sure Tripp loved him as well! I'm thinking your little man is relieved that you are being cared for and would whole-heartedly approve!

    Please don't stop blogging, you are loved by so many out here in cyberspace!

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  157. Congratulations Courtney! I am so happy for you. I love how God has a way of making his presence known. Tripp is still looking over you. I love those pictures!

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  158. You are being blessed and you so deserve it. Since Tripp could not physically be with you, he sent another of God's creatures to let you know how he approved. God bless.

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  159. Dear Courtney: I am so, so happy for you and Stephen. You are so blessed to find this wonderful man to spend the rest of your life. It brought tears to my eyes to see the butterfly in your hands. I know I will never look at another butterfly without saying, Hello Leah, I miss you so much little girl.
    Congratulations on your new lifes path. I am positive the best is yet to come to you. You sure do deserve the best in life. Love and Peace Leah and Tabby's Nana

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  160. Congratulations!! Love that he has been with you through it all - may God abundantly bless both of you!

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  161. Courtney, so very happy for you! I agree, that butterfly was sent by your little man!
    God Bless you as you start your lives together!

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  162. Oh this is just wonderful!!!! I'm so happy for you both. Selfish me, I didn't want to open the email alert thinking it would be tear-inducing and make me sad today. And it WAS tearful, but for a very HAPPY reason! Yeaaaa! God bless Stephen who seems to be an extraordinary man (KEEP him! I got a good one too!) and love to you both.

    The butterfly pic was just incredible! Tripp was right there with you on a special day. A similar thing happened to me once. My paternal grandfather, who was an interesting and quirky man, died when I was about 14. He was an adventurous and no-frills kinda soul all his life who loved carving/painting birds in his spare time. He picked this hobby up when he was a hobo during the Depression. Directly after his funeral, my mom, sister and I got separated from the limousine convoy and could not find his grave site. At a crossroads in the large cemetery, a small but brightly colored bird I had never seen before landed in front of us on a headstone. It tweeted and chirped then flew in a circle a few times...we followed it's flight and found Grandpa. :-)

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  163. Congratulations! Best wishes to you both!

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  164. Congratulations!!!!! I can't wait to read more details about your wedding!! (Please keep posting!)

    xo,
    A

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  165. Courtney,

    I'm happy for you that you found a good man. He is one very fortunate man to have you as his fiance/wife. Congratulations Courtney and Stephen.

    Benjamin

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  166. excellent news!! Great photos!! Congratulations!!

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  167. congratulations, I am very happy for you

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  168. WOW!!!! This is the most wonderful news!!! Nice one Stephen and a great choice of ring!!! You deserve this so much Courtney, no one deserves it more than you. I'm so happy for you all!!! Love and hugs xoxoxoxoxo

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  169. SOOOOO excited for both of you! I know Tripp is very proud of his Momma and totally approves! Congratulations and wishing you so much very deserved happiness. I know it will always be bittersweet, but know that your little man is always sending down angel kisses to show you he is near.

    I always think of you all and pray for your continued strength along the way.

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  170. Congratulations!! I am so excited for you! That butterfly picture gave me goosebumps!

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  171. Congratulations! I love the butterfly picture. I truly believe your baby boy sent it for you and that is so amazing! I wish you the best of luck as you begin this new chapter of your life! You are very lucky to have someone like Tripp watching over you - just as he was lucky to have the amazing mom that you were to him :) Your story tears at my heart and it also brings me so much hope. I'm not sure if that makes any sense but just know you are touching people's lives without even knowing it!

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  172. Courtney -

    I am so happy for you. You have found yourself an amazing man. My first thought when I saw the pic with the butterfly is that your Little Man was with you right then and there to share the joy with you.

    ~ Stacey
    www.littleliamslambs.com

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  173. Happy Happy news! Stephen is a lucky man. Wishing you lots of love as you start on this new adventure together, with your sweet boy smiling down on you.

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  174. I had a giant smile on my face after reading this post! You are both amazing people and I'm sure God sent Stephen to you and Tripp when you guys needed him most. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness - it is well deserved. :)

    I hope you continue to keep us updated on your life. You and Tripp are never far from my mind. :)

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  175. CONGRATULATIONS Courtney, I am so happy for you! What an amazing picture of the your hands and the butterfly. Can't wait to see wedding pictures!

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  176. Congratulations - you deserve someone to take so much care of you.

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  177. Congratulations! May the Lord bless you and keep you both sheltered. I am so glad you found each other.

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  178. Congratulations!!! I am so happy for you!

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  179. Congrats to you pretty girl! Looks like you have an AMAZING guy to spend your life with! Any man that accepts your child and helps you with them is THE one! I got lucky to find someone like that too, so don't let go of him. And I KNOW that Tripp approves because he wants his mommy happy. God bless you both. You deserve happiness girl!

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  180. Congrats, Courtney! You deserve all the happiness in the world!

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  181. this just made my day!!!! :) God is so good!! So very happy for both of you! I know Tripp is smiling down from Heaven. God Bless You both!!

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  182. Congratulations on your engagement!

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