For years, my husband and I have walked a journey that no couple imagines they will face: infertility. We have never experienced the joys of a positive pregnancy test or holding our child in our arms. We have watched the majority of our friends, family, and church build their families. And we’ve been broken by it. My body is broken. My spirit has been broken. And if I am not diligently and intently immersed in the truth of God’s Word, the enemy is quick to spit lies, and I am quick to listen. The enemy loves broken bodies. He loves broken spirits. And infertility is a painful combination of both. As we wait for a child among our broken bodies and minds, the enemy loves to use … [Read more...]
When Mother’s Day Hurts
For many, Mother’s Day feels more like a day of mourning than a day of celebration. It stands as a reminder of what many have lost. Perhaps it’s a woman who lost her child through miscarriage, stillbirth, illness, or tragedy. Maybe it’s a woman who recently lost her mother. Perhaps it’s a woman who is estranged from her mother, or a mother challenged by a rebellious child. It may be an infertile woman who is pleading and praying for the gift of motherhood. Maybe it’s a woman who had an abortion long before she came to Christ. No matter the circumstance, the pain and suffering experienced in your congregation on Mother’s Day may make celebration seemingly impossible. I have been that woman … [Read more...]
#FliptheScript: We’re Happier Than You Think
When we opened up about our infertility journey 5+ years ago, we were suddenly presented with scenarios and conversations we didn't expect to have. We discovered that, no matter how honest we were with our loved ones, there were still lingering assumptions about our lives. In honor of National Infertility Awareness Week's 2018 theme, #FliptheScript, I'm sharing some incorrect assumptions about our battle with infertility. I want to stress, however, that this is where we are today. My heart wasn't always in this place. It has taken years and the grace of God to bring me to these declarations! #FliptheScript: We live lonely, unfulfilled lives. There's a hurtful misconception (often … [Read more...]
{NIAW Week GIVEAWAY!} Pineapple “Strength” Keychain
**Giveaway is closed** In honor of National Infertility Awareness Week 2018, I've partnered with Melissa Oprisko from Stamped by Melissa, who is generously giving away a hand-stamped pineapple keychain. Melissa and I know each other through our fur babies! Melissa's Buddy and my Rudy are both Goldendoodles from the same breeder. She and I also connected through our infertility journeys. After struggling for three years, undergoing multiple medical procedures, and suffering a miscarriage, Melissa and her husband were blessed with their miracle son who is now five. She told me, "There are still times I struggle with the gut-wrenching emotions when I see pregnancy posts. I will always … [Read more...]