Thankful

Infertility has a way of consuming every aspect of your life. Everywhere you look there are families, and pregnancy announcements, and newborn pictures. Appointments and ultrasounds and medications and tests become a way of life. I was going to share the story of our second IVF this week, but Thanksgiving has me reflecting on the things I am thankful for. 

I have the most amazing friends and family. My mom, dad, and sister have always supported Dustin and I in every decision that we have made and everything we have gone through. I have always been able to call on them when I need to cry, vent, celebrate, and ask advice. Even before my family knew of our struggles, they never pressured us to have children. When we shared with them what we were going through after our first miscarriage, I felt like weight was lifted from my shoulders.  

We have a beautiful niece and nephew, and I’m thankful every day that I get to be their Auntie. I was in the delivery room for both of their births; when the doctor announced, “It’s a girl!” and “It’s a boy!”; when they took their first breath. Not a week goes by that I don’t see them, even if it’s just for a few minutes. We are so lucky to have them in our lives. 

Many of our friends have had children during the time we’ve been trying. Although those friends can’t fully understand what we are going through, they are there to go for a walk, grab a coffee, have a drink, and be a listening ear. I also have friends who are going through what we’re going through. Those friends hold a special place in my heart. As with any shared experience, these friends just get it. They’ve been there. They know. They are one of my biggest support systems. I hate that we are going through infertility, but we are going through it together. 

I have wonderful co-workers. When I need to be away for appointments, or when I’m not doing well emotionally, they are there to support me. I have a killer gym family. Not only do I feel better after sweating out my fear, frustration, anger, and sadness, but my gym family always welcomes me with open arms. They help improve my mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing.  

Last, but certainly not least, I’m thankful for my number one… my other half… my best friend… my husband. He loves me unconditionally. He always puts my needs first. We have experienced more together in our 11 years than some couples do in a lifetime. We have a lot of things we do together that we enjoy, and things that have helped us get through tough times. I’ll talk about those more in another post but for today, I just want to say that I’m thankful for you, Dustin. (And our fur babies too 💕)