Not Alone

As many of you know, Blake and I have been in the fight of our life to grow our family. I am so lucky to have Blake’s love and to go through this with him. It’s something I never take for granted. So while these photos are not somber, they speak to the love we share, and continue to grow, even through hard times. We have been trying for 2+ years and 1+ of those years has been with infertility treatments. It’s a journey I shared in this blog post here and continue to share as we battle through. I think one of the most difficult things about going through IVF is that people that have not experienced it have a hard time understanding what it is we have been through. My decision to start blogging about our infertility had a lot to do with breaking down the stigma of talking about it. I want women (and men) to know that they are not alone and this is happening to so many people that just don’t talk about it. I wanted to share my story in hopes of helping others.

When American Greetings reached out about collaborating on the subject, I could not say yes quickly enough. They have launched a video in honor of National Parents’ Day, on July 23, recognizing not only how tough it is to BE a parent but also how tough it can be to BECOME a parent. It’s part of their “Give Meaning” Campaign. This could not have resonated more with me. They honor celebrating real life and their compassion for letting aspiring parents know they are not alone truly warms my heart.

I sat and watched this video at my desk. The tears rolled down my cheeks and my heart felt that tingle…this was me. This is all of you that reached out to me with your thousands of similar stories of struggle. The video captures so beautifully just some of the struggle of infertility. The constant disappointment… the days when you have to be strong at a best friends baby shower. All of it is so hard. At the end of the video, a friends small gesture shows how just a little bit of effort can help those struggling. I know its impossible for some to understand the devastation and heartbreak of infertility, but I hope this video can share a glimpse that small gestures to let someone know they are not alone mean the world and can change someones day. Support is what we all look for in these times of struggle and I hope that sharing this moving story will spark a thoughtful conversation that influences and inspires others to act.

You can read more about the Give Meaning campaign here. If you want to join the conversation, share a real moment that touched your heart with #GiveMeaning

It really means the world that American Greetings would allow me to share this message and powerful video with you all. Our fight continues, and it’s because of all your emails, DM’s, social media messages, and continued love and support that we feel stronger each day and ready to fight our battle. And always remember, you are not alone. I am in this with you. Much love and light to everyone, no matter your struggle. 

Do something for someone you love today.

This post is sponsored by American Greetings.
Big thank you for supporting all eat/sleep/wear collabs!