Reflecting on the year that was

At this time of the year I like to reflect back on the year that was.  The things we did, the experiences we had, and how much our family has changed. 

Last year at this time, I had just had my IUD removed in a "'let's see what happens" kind of move.  We also got the chance at an amazing trip to see our college alma mater go to the Rose Bowl and visit with some old college friends we hadn't seen in years plus make a new friend.  This not long after we had celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary the previous October.

The spring brought us to our decision that Mother Nature wasn't interested in a "let's see what happens" pregnancy, and we needed to once again take aggressive action to grow our family.  It was a decision that wasn't made lightly; after all, no one would fault us for not having more.  Having 2 children is more socially acceptable than ever; but it felt like someone was missing in our hearts and in our home.  So we made the dive again into the world of IVF, but this time documenting our experience in this blog in the hopes that our experience would give someone else hope and support.  The world of infertility can feel very lonely, especially if you choose to keep your journey private. 

We spent the summer preparing ourselves with meetings, testing, and again more meetings.  The summer was also a busy one with many activities for us and our children, including another amazing vacation with my husband's family.

By fall we were ready to go.  My oldest started Kindergarten, my youngest started preschool, and I started the process again.  At the end of September we were once again blessed with positive results and the knowledge that we were that much closer to finding our missing piece.

As winter has started (with a bang here in Minnesota!), I am reflecting on what next year will bring us.  I am roughly 3 and a half weeks away from knowing whether I'll need more blue or can think pink.  We'll start preparing for our new arrival come spring shortly after we watch my younger brother get married.  Come late spring/early summer, we'll finally see what we have waited all year for -- our missing piece of the puzzle.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!  May the holiday season bring you peace, love, and joy; and give you time to reflect on the year that was and look forward to the year that will be.