Dylan from Nicole Bronson on Vimeo.
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Happy Birthday, Sweet Child of Mine!
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A Very Happily Ever After
Recently, the man of my dreams asked me to spend the rest of my life with him. And, I said "yes!".
This man loves God, works hard(harder than anyone I know), opens all my doors, prays with me, has insight into who I am and all that I stand for, looks at me with adoration(in a way that I've never been looked at before), knows what makes a successful relationship, realizes life isn't always perfect(he's a two time cancer survivor), and he makes the bad days good, and the good days even better.
This man has also been to Guatemala and has a heart for the people there. We look forward to making a return trip, and serving side by side as a husband and wife team some day.
He's the man I've been praying for, and more. He's not afraid to go to the valleys of grief with me. He doesn't try to pretend to know what it's like to lose a child, or try to fix my "problem". He prays me through the tough times, and talks about Dylan anytime I want to.
His name means "gift from God". And I couldn't agree more. I am honored to know him, to call him my best friend, and to be his wife. I can't thank God enough for bringing this encourager, this rock, this godly man into my life. There have been many instances that I've been brought to tears thinking about all that I've been through, and all that God has given me in this man. We're not perfect as individuals, but with God at the center, we're perfect together.
I thank God for solidifying my faith in Him, in love, and in marriage. I know that whatever storms come in this life, with God's help we will weather them together.
I also want to take this time to encourage anyone out there, that no matter what you're going through, hang on to Him. It WILL get better. Waiting is always the hardest part. The unknown, the despair, the heartache...I've been there. God is more than enough for whatever situation you may find yourself in. I pray your courage is renewed. If God can make beauty from my ashes, He can do the same for you, too. He happens to be very experienced in the whole bringing-what-once-was-dead-back-to-life-business.
Thank you for all of your love, support, and prayers over the past 4 years. They've meant more than you could know.
'The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.'
Genesis 2:18
"He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD".
Proverbs 18:22
This picture was taken at a Jeremy Camp concert, which the man of my dreams surprised me with tickets to.
Meet my Prince Charming. Isn't he handsome?
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This man loves God, works hard(harder than anyone I know), opens all my doors, prays with me, has insight into who I am and all that I stand for, looks at me with adoration(in a way that I've never been looked at before), knows what makes a successful relationship, realizes life isn't always perfect(he's a two time cancer survivor), and he makes the bad days good, and the good days even better.
This man has also been to Guatemala and has a heart for the people there. We look forward to making a return trip, and serving side by side as a husband and wife team some day.
He's the man I've been praying for, and more. He's not afraid to go to the valleys of grief with me. He doesn't try to pretend to know what it's like to lose a child, or try to fix my "problem". He prays me through the tough times, and talks about Dylan anytime I want to.
His name means "gift from God". And I couldn't agree more. I am honored to know him, to call him my best friend, and to be his wife. I can't thank God enough for bringing this encourager, this rock, this godly man into my life. There have been many instances that I've been brought to tears thinking about all that I've been through, and all that God has given me in this man. We're not perfect as individuals, but with God at the center, we're perfect together.
I thank God for solidifying my faith in Him, in love, and in marriage. I know that whatever storms come in this life, with God's help we will weather them together.
I also want to take this time to encourage anyone out there, that no matter what you're going through, hang on to Him. It WILL get better. Waiting is always the hardest part. The unknown, the despair, the heartache...I've been there. God is more than enough for whatever situation you may find yourself in. I pray your courage is renewed. If God can make beauty from my ashes, He can do the same for you, too. He happens to be very experienced in the whole bringing-what-once-was-dead-back-to-life-business.
Thank you for all of your love, support, and prayers over the past 4 years. They've meant more than you could know.
'The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.'
Genesis 2:18
"He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD".
Proverbs 18:22
This picture was taken at a Jeremy Camp concert, which the man of my dreams surprised me with tickets to.
Meet my Prince Charming. Isn't he handsome?
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A God Ordained Wedding, Rainbows and All.
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Our Love Story
It started in February of 2011. I had just begun the adventure of being a hairstylist at a new-to-me salon. Switching employers was a total God thing. It was as if He said "Go", and the door flew open to an exciting opportunity to work for a Christian owned, education focused, client centered company that has given me so many awesome opportunities and friendships than I could ever have dreamed of. I am thriving and learning new things everyday. I never knew a salon liked this existed in my town.
On my very first week at the new place of employment, a friendly stylist (who I would later be her maid of honor) walked right up to me, introduced herself, and asked if I was single. I said "yes". She said, "Good, because I have two guys for you, but you'll need to choose because they're roommates". I was shocked. My new friend of course showed me both guys' pictures. I had thought to myself, "ooh...the one with dark hair is super attractive". I informed the matchmaker standing before me that I am an old fashioned kind of girl. Feel free to give them my number, but they have to initiate contact.
6 weeks went by with no communication from either eligible bachelors.
I wasn't heartbroken. I hadn't known any different.
The plane took off, and I was Israel bound, voyaging on a pilgrimage that would change my life forever.
While on a tour to the Western Wailing Wall, I had heard from God regarding my future as a wife. A little background information on the wall:
The wall is one of the holiest sites to the Jewish people. It was part of King Herod's temple from over 2,000 years ago. In 2 Chronicles 7:1-3, we learn that the glory of God filled the temple. To touch a wall that the glory of God had filled, is an experience that can't be described by human words. Many flock there on a daily basis to present their prayer requests to God.
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In keeping with tradition, I wrote my prayer request on a small, yellow, square shaped piece of paper. The request read:
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On my very first week at the new place of employment, a friendly stylist (who I would later be her maid of honor) walked right up to me, introduced herself, and asked if I was single. I said "yes". She said, "Good, because I have two guys for you, but you'll need to choose because they're roommates". I was shocked. My new friend of course showed me both guys' pictures. I had thought to myself, "ooh...the one with dark hair is super attractive". I informed the matchmaker standing before me that I am an old fashioned kind of girl. Feel free to give them my number, but they have to initiate contact.
6 weeks went by with no communication from either eligible bachelors.
I wasn't heartbroken. I hadn't known any different.
The plane took off, and I was Israel bound, voyaging on a pilgrimage that would change my life forever.
While on a tour to the Western Wailing Wall, I had heard from God regarding my future as a wife. A little background information on the wall:
The wall is one of the holiest sites to the Jewish people. It was part of King Herod's temple from over 2,000 years ago. In 2 Chronicles 7:1-3, we learn that the glory of God filled the temple. To touch a wall that the glory of God had filled, is an experience that can't be described by human words. Many flock there on a daily basis to present their prayer requests to God.
In keeping with tradition, I wrote my prayer request on a small, yellow, square shaped piece of paper. The request read:
REPLACE MY ASHES WITH YOUR BEAUTY.
RESTORE ALL THAT WAS LOST.
I stepped back to catch my breath, and fully take in my surroundings. I was standing on holy ground. The layers upon layers of this wall told a story. And God was the Author. My thoughts quickly flashed through the memories of my own story that God was writing. Could I trust Him? And His timing? Indeed, I could.
My eyes were drawn up and to the left. There was a dove (at least that's what I think it is?) setting on a ledge of the Western Wall. She was all alone. Moments later, her mate had come. All the while, God was at work, making perfect provisions for her.
My heart was put at ease. God had not forgotten me. He had heard my plea, and was (and still is) writing my story.
While in Israel, it was discovered that one of the accompanying travelers was indeed the father of one of the eligible bachelors that my outgoing new friend was trying to set me up with. (In the unfortunate case that I've lost you in my ramblings, see beginning of this post).
Unbelievable! The "coincidence" was too great to ignore. Bachelor #1(the son of the accompanying traveler) gave me a call. We casually dated for a couple of short months...hardly worth mentioning, except that during that time frame, I got to know his roommate(remember Bachelor #2?) very well. I adored his insight and outlook on life. He was a believer and a very hard worker. He was a two time cancer survivor, not taking a single breath for granted. Remember the super attractive dark haired guy?
The friendship we had was only just beginning. Things ended with Bachelor #1, and life went on.
Nearly a year had passed. To my surprise, I received a call from Bachelor #2. When I saw his number come up on my phone, there was a divine moment where I thought to myself: "This is it". I knew what his intentions were going to be...
With the hope of not exhausting you with all the details in one sitting, I will present this story in 2 parts. Stay tuned for the conclusion!
May you be filled with hope and a peace that surpasses all understanding today!
Nicole
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Our Love Story ~ Part 2
Initially, our budding relationship grew very slowly (it took 3 months for him to hold my hand!). We spent countless hours in conversation, respecting each other, and getting to know one another at a deeper level. Once we had exhausted all inquiries of the other's character, integrity, religious beliefs, personal preferences, and everything in between, we had made a mutual decision: We were in love.
With him being 31, me being 28, and all of the experiences behind us, we wanted to get married. It's true what they say. You know when you know. We were both committed to the same things, and wanted to proceed, with God's blessing of course. Many outsiders thought we had temporarily lost our minds. But those who knew us well, gave unanimous verdicts: they had never seen either of us that happy. We brought out the best in each other, and shared many views in common.
5 months after we had reunited, we became engaged. He proposed at one of our favorite spots. I knew it was coming, but had no input into the ring selection. I wanted to be completely surprised.
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Wedding planning was in full swing. We wanted simple, beautiful, and unique as our theme. The date was set for just 3 months after the proposal. I found my dress for $29. I kid you not. It was the 2nd one I tried on, 15 minutes before the bridal shop was closing. I bought it...what did I have to lose? When God is at work, He doesn't mess around.
The ceremony was set for a Saturday morning, with a breakfast reception to follow. Upon awaking, there were scattered showers. Fear not. The showers preceded the rainbow, which was visible by my beloved and I upon arrival to the farm. When God is at work, He doesn't mess around.
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I walked down the aisle towards my groom. Noticing the sweet tears of awe and gratitude in his eyes, my heart leaped for joy. We were told, though not seen by us, that there were butterflies floating around our heads during the exchange of vows.
The day was perfect. Like only God could make it.
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God is in the business of restoration. It can be easy, at times, to take His gifts for granted. But when my focus shifts back to Him, and His goodness, and His faithfulness the outpouring of thanksgiving and gratitude flows from my heart. A cord of 3 strands is not easily broken. Thank You, Jesus.
With him being 31, me being 28, and all of the experiences behind us, we wanted to get married. It's true what they say. You know when you know. We were both committed to the same things, and wanted to proceed, with God's blessing of course. Many outsiders thought we had temporarily lost our minds. But those who knew us well, gave unanimous verdicts: they had never seen either of us that happy. We brought out the best in each other, and shared many views in common.
5 months after we had reunited, we became engaged. He proposed at one of our favorite spots. I knew it was coming, but had no input into the ring selection. I wanted to be completely surprised.
Wedding planning was in full swing. We wanted simple, beautiful, and unique as our theme. The date was set for just 3 months after the proposal. I found my dress for $29. I kid you not. It was the 2nd one I tried on, 15 minutes before the bridal shop was closing. I bought it...what did I have to lose? When God is at work, He doesn't mess around.
The ceremony was set for a Saturday morning, with a breakfast reception to follow. Upon awaking, there were scattered showers. Fear not. The showers preceded the rainbow, which was visible by my beloved and I upon arrival to the farm. When God is at work, He doesn't mess around.
I walked down the aisle towards my groom. Noticing the sweet tears of awe and gratitude in his eyes, my heart leaped for joy. We were told, though not seen by us, that there were butterflies floating around our heads during the exchange of vows.
The day was perfect. Like only God could make it.
We are an aunt and uncle to now 5 nephews and a niece. We love them to pieces.
A perk to being an only child is that my mom is one of my best friends.
I have a new 2nd mom. She lovingly asked if she could "adopt" Dylan as one of her grandsons. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. It meant more than she could ever know. She is a phenomenal, hands on grandma. I can hardly wait to see her as a grandma to one of our own some day.
And remember my outgoing friend, the "matchmaker"? She and her husband were our witnesses. They are amazing friends, and we so value their support. An interesting statistic, I believe she has successfully matched 3 couples that are now married. She has a gift.
LOVE. May we never take it for granted. It's not always easy, but always worth it.
God is in the business of restoration. It can be easy, at times, to take His gifts for granted. But when my focus shifts back to Him, and His goodness, and His faithfulness the outpouring of thanksgiving and gratitude flows from my heart. A cord of 3 strands is not easily broken. Thank You, Jesus.
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Sowing Seeds
"Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously".
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2 Cor 9:6
"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows".
Gal 6:7
When my husband and I got married, we set out to pay off our debt. Fast. Our goal was to be completely debt free by our first anniversary. We are both quite frugal, tithe regularly, and share when we can with others. As of last week, we can officially say that we are DEBT FREE! And a month early! This is nothing short of a miracle. When we were faithful with little, God was faithful with much. He has blessed us every step of the way.
I heard a wonderful sermon quite some time ago. The catchphrase of the message was: "Where there's a need, sow a seed". When you are waiting on God to fulfill your need, give a little of what you are waiting for to someone else. This is an act of faith of course. And, it doesn't make much sense to today's society, but it's how God works. We can sow our seeds, and trust that God will bring the harvest.
My husband makes so many sacrifices, on a daily basis, for our team. I am so grateful for him and his willingness to forfeit a little now, to gain much for our future. God has been so, so, so good to us!
I hope today's post encourages you to keep on persevering towards whatever goal(s) God has placed on your heart. Sometimes the waiting, the silence, or the struggle seem like they'll last forever. But, your breakthrough could be JUST around the corner! God has victory in store for you! Trust Him.
One of the many sacrifices my husband has made was selling his beloved bike. We have some amazing memories with it, but nothing feels better than being DEBT FREE.
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A Post ~ Five Years in the Making
I have prayed nearly every day for the last five years to be writing this post. After 5 years of pleading in prayer, 10 months of battling infertility (more on that in a later post), and 11 weeks awaiting genetic test results: I am beyond grateful and thrilled to have this opportunity to introduce you to Hudson Matthew! Without a doubt his 13th, 18th, & 21st chromosomes are completely normal!!! Praise only to God! He is due to arrive on 4-4-14. We don't take a single day with him for granted.
If you feel so inclined, I would totally appreciate your prayers for continued health for me and for Hudson. That he would grow to be full term, born alive and without any defects, sickness, or disease.
There is much more to say, but for now we are just in awe of what God has done for us. At 9 weeks, he was measuring big! Beyond Blessed!
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The First 20
I would be lying if I claimed that the first twenty weeks of this pregnancy were anxiety free. So I won't even try. After carrying my first baby for 38 weeks, while planning for his birth and burial at the same time, I could only dream of being naive with my second pregnancy. But all that aside, it is by God's grace that I am able to report news of a healthy, growing, kicking, moving, baby boy! The first 20 weeks have flown by! With every step forward, God gently reminds me of His sovereignty, and love. God is more than enough for any and all situations.
My husband and I chose to undergo genetic testing with this baby. All that is involved is a simple blood draw from me. I say simple, but I had 7 viles of blood drawn. I don't easily get grossed out by the sight of blood or needles, except when it is my own. Adding to the mix, there was a lot riding on that simple needle poke: was it going to be a repeat of my first pregnancy? or would we get news of a baby with perfect chromosomes? My sweet mom met me at the lab the morning of the test, with my favorite cookies in hand, and jokes lined up to distract me from the process! She knows me so well, and has made the first twenty weeks of pregnancy much more easy for me to endure.
Also at 10 weeks, my husband and I celebrated our 1 year anniversary. He surprised me with a trip to a bed and breakfast, and with a new coach purse! He spoils me so much, and I am so grateful to God for giving me this man. There is no one else I would want to share this journey of life with.
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With Thanksgiving upon us, we have so much to be thankful for. In all actuality, it's not about what God can do for us, or give us. He's already given us all that we need in His Son. The work has been done. All that is required of us is to believe and receive. Easier said than done, I know. Wishing you a blessed holiday week!
My husband and I chose to undergo genetic testing with this baby. All that is involved is a simple blood draw from me. I say simple, but I had 7 viles of blood drawn. I don't easily get grossed out by the sight of blood or needles, except when it is my own. Adding to the mix, there was a lot riding on that simple needle poke: was it going to be a repeat of my first pregnancy? or would we get news of a baby with perfect chromosomes? My sweet mom met me at the lab the morning of the test, with my favorite cookies in hand, and jokes lined up to distract me from the process! She knows me so well, and has made the first twenty weeks of pregnancy much more easy for me to endure.
Also at 10 weeks, my husband and I celebrated our 1 year anniversary. He surprised me with a trip to a bed and breakfast, and with a new coach purse! He spoils me so much, and I am so grateful to God for giving me this man. There is no one else I would want to share this journey of life with.
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| It was around 12 weeks, that we received the call I had been praying for for over 5 years. Our baby BOY had perfect chromosomes! I took the call, and already had 2 outfits wrapped and waiting. After hanging up the phone, I handed this one to daddy to open. (We were both quite shocked that it was a boy. All along we had thought it was a girl! Oops!) |
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| We made it to 20 weeks! Around this time, I started to relax and breathe a little easier. We invited both of Hudson's grandmas to the 20 week ultrasound. It was the first ultrasound that my mom had ever seen. She cried when seeing Hudson for the first time. It was an amazing moment. I have never been so thrilled to hear the word "normal" before! |
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| This is the best 3D image we could get of Mr. Hudson. Apparently, he doesn't like to be still for very long(exactly like his daddy!). We also weren't able to get an open faced shot because he had his face scrunched up against his pillow(AKA the placenta), and had his fist up near his face(exactly like his mommy sleeps!). |
With Thanksgiving upon us, we have so much to be thankful for. In all actuality, it's not about what God can do for us, or give us. He's already given us all that we need in His Son. The work has been done. All that is required of us is to believe and receive. Easier said than done, I know. Wishing you a blessed holiday week!
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Pregnancy Update
Wow! These last few months have been the busiest yet! My husband and I closed on our first house last November. The previous owners are building a new one, and had been renting the house from us for 3 months. They moved out a week sooner than expected, and the whole situation has been such a God "thing". We had been praying and searching(and waiting!) for just the right house to cross our path. This one meets all of our needs and our wants! We're totally feeling God's Hand in our lives. He has blessed us beyond belief. Needless to say, the month of February was hectic. It was filled with the big move, 4 baby showers(thrown by very generous family & friends), maternity pictures, and doctor appointments. We're all settled in now, and awaiting our peanut's arrival.
I had a total of 3 separate ultrasounds throughout the pregnancy, and at each one Hudson refused to give a glimpse of his whole face. His hand was up by his face on all occasions! I can appreciate the fact that he knows what he likes. :) He is measuring "perfectly" at each appointment. At 37ish weeks, I was dilated to 3cm and 70% effaced. We're hoping he comes any day now.
Over the last 5 years, I had no idea if I would ever be at this place today. This place of joy, peace, hope, and longings fulfilled. I can't say that I was the most patient of Jesus followers this whole time, but I can say that He is faithful...even with my imperfections. It is my prayer that if you're someone who is in the "waiting" stage of life, that this post will refresh your hope. Jesus can make all things new! Nothing is excluded or too far gone for Him to repair, restore, and replenish. All the glory to God for His faithfulness and this season of abundant blessing He has us in!
Here's a picture catch up:
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*Maternity Photo Credit: Julie Plain Photography
Thank you so much for all of your prayers! They have certainly been felt!
I had a total of 3 separate ultrasounds throughout the pregnancy, and at each one Hudson refused to give a glimpse of his whole face. His hand was up by his face on all occasions! I can appreciate the fact that he knows what he likes. :) He is measuring "perfectly" at each appointment. At 37ish weeks, I was dilated to 3cm and 70% effaced. We're hoping he comes any day now.
Over the last 5 years, I had no idea if I would ever be at this place today. This place of joy, peace, hope, and longings fulfilled. I can't say that I was the most patient of Jesus followers this whole time, but I can say that He is faithful...even with my imperfections. It is my prayer that if you're someone who is in the "waiting" stage of life, that this post will refresh your hope. Jesus can make all things new! Nothing is excluded or too far gone for Him to repair, restore, and replenish. All the glory to God for His faithfulness and this season of abundant blessing He has us in!
Here's a picture catch up:
Thank you so much for all of your prayers! They have certainly been felt!
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He's Here!
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3 Weeks Old!
Hudson's first week in pictures!
There's nothing more attractive than seeing your husband dote on his look alike son!
4 days old. We brought daddy donuts to work this day.
Week 2
Week 3
We waited til now to introduce the pacifier. He wasn't too interested at first, but is starting to get the hang of it.
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Hudson Newborn Pics
A very special thank you to Julie Plain Photography for these priceless pictures of our miracle baby!
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Mother's Day 2014
This Mother's Day has been unlike any other. Honestly, the last five have been awful. They were painful reminders of what I once had(but lost too soon), what I yearned for in the present, and what I was beginning to doubt I would ever have in the future. But this Mother's Day? This year was much, much different. It represented answered prayers, unspeakable joy, renewed hope, tears of longing for my son in heaven, and tears of gratitude for the son in my arms.
One day, I will share the story of our fertility struggles. I've gone to write the post many times, but haven't had the courage to hit "publish". But, for anyone reading this that is currently battling (and it is a battle...in every sense of the word) infertility, know that you are not alone. Know that God will grant you your heart's desire. Know that what is impossible with man, IS possible with God! And don't let anyone tell you any different.
This Mother's Day, my dreams came true. I held my own flesh and blood in my arms. He is alive. He is healthy. And, he's completely adored. All of that I owe to Jesus. Thank You, Lord for this perfect gift!
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One day, I will share the story of our fertility struggles. I've gone to write the post many times, but haven't had the courage to hit "publish". But, for anyone reading this that is currently battling (and it is a battle...in every sense of the word) infertility, know that you are not alone. Know that God will grant you your heart's desire. Know that what is impossible with man, IS possible with God! And don't let anyone tell you any different.
This Mother's Day, my dreams came true. I held my own flesh and blood in my arms. He is alive. He is healthy. And, he's completely adored. All of that I owe to Jesus. Thank You, Lord for this perfect gift!
Hudson is not a morning person. He comes by that naturally.
I am so grateful to have had the last 7 weeks home with my boy:
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Two Months!
Hudson was not a huge fan of having to get shots at his 2 month checkup. If the truth be told, his mom was near break down, too. So hard to see him upset!
Thankfully, he quickly got over it.
We thank God for a healthy, happy, & growing boy!
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Our Journey To Fertility
I've never been one to beat around the bush, so staying true to who God made me to be, I'll just say it. I have PCOS. I was diagnosed close to 12 years ago. I have always had maybe 1 or 2 periods a year. My doctors had chalked it up to being so active(I was a dancer and soccer player), and said to "enjoy it". So I did. Then, the dream of being a mom came into focus.
PCOS is a condition in which ovaries produce follicles that never grow to maturity, or being released. They stay attached to the ovaries as "cysts". Hence the name Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome. There are all sorts of uncomfortable symptoms associated with it, including weight gain, lack of periods, infertility, and more. Having this condition, and working in an OB-GYN office for 6 years, I was well versed in it. And, I knew that it, unfortunately, can make pregnancy very difficult to achieve. I didn't want to waste any time.
My doctor and I had a plan in place shortly after I married my husband in September of 2012. We tried naturally for 3 months. Nothing happened. I went on a medication called Clomid in December of 2012. I had a terrible, terrible experience with that drug. There were days I found myself on the couch crying, devastated, and unable to cope. But I trudged on. Motherhood isn't easy, right? I would bear any discomfort, endure any amount of sacrifice, if it meant a baby in my arms. December came and went. The medication did not even cause ovulation, which is what it was supposed to do. My normally endearing husband kindly asked me to never go on that medication again. I couldn't have agreed more. We went back to the drawing board.
Meanwhile, friends and family all around me were becoming pregnant. Well meaning friends and family were unknowingly pouring salt on our wounds, asking us when we were going to have kids. Because that's a natural question to ask newlyweds, right? Oh the heartbreak. Oh the devastation. Oh the strain and pressure that was put on our marriage. I carried so much shame and guilt. Why was God "punishing" me? I felt so isolated and crushed. It was an hour by hour struggle to be happy for my loved ones who were falling pregnant so easily. It was a struggle to not speak my mind when they would complain of weight gain or morning sickness. Jealousy constantly threatened to steal my peace.
Back to our strategy. We tried the holistic route. I went to a holistic doctor, and began quite an extensive herbal regimen. I was praying, and pleading. Still...nothing.
I scoured online research, blogs, and web forums. I came across an herb called "Vitex" AKA Chastetreeberry. I took the maximum recommended amount. It worked! I got a period within 30 days! Never was a period so welcomed in all the world! I continued that herb and also started tracking my basal body temperature. A very strong, clearly noted ovulation was being displayed. Hooray! My doctor was impressed with the results, but still no conception. I was also taking Metformin, a drug to treat diabetes. Symptoms of diabetes can also show up in patients with PCOS. Metformin helps to regulate blood sugars, which can also help to level out hormones. So, I took Metformin and the Vitex for 3 months.
I was struggling internally. I would have loved for God to just show up, and part the Red Sea before my eyes. To grant me a miracle pregnancy with no drugs involved. I totally think He is capable of that. However, that's not the direction I felt pulled in or called to. Walking through the Christian aisle of the local library, a book entitled She Did What She Could caught my attention. It centered around Mark 14:18, referencing the woman who poured a very expensive perfume on Jesus' feet. Just short of hearing an audible voice, I strongly felt the urging to also take a relatively new drug to the fertility world called Femara. I had done the research. It is actually a treatment for breast cancer, but one of the side effects is increased fertility. I felt God telling me to do what I could, and trust Him for the rest.
Upon discussion and agreement with my husband and physician, I took it. Ovulation was indeed confirmed by an ultrasound, and conception followed! Praise God! It worked the very first month!
I was out to lunch with my co-workers in Chicago when I suddenly felt very ill. I had to excuse myself to the bathroom. My body was showing all the signs that indeed I was pregnant, but my mind was cautious to accept it. A pee stick confirmed it. My prayers, my pleading, my lifelong dream had come true!
Of course I had to take more tests, you know, just to be sure. The very same day I had prepared to share the news with my husband, he had news of his own to share. He had made the final payment on a loan, making us debt free! The same day we discovered we were parents, God enabled us to repay all of our debts! He is so amazing!
Around 9 weeks, I had slight spotting. My joy came crashing down. It was one of the most fearful moments of my life. I will never forget my husband's response. He said, "It was God's baby first. We have to trust Him no matter what happens". Man, I love him. He is so grounded and steady. Another ultrasound confirmed all was well with the baby. We had genetic testing done at 10 weeks, and the rest is history.
God is good, and promises children to His children. Be encouraged. He is faithful and true.
I hope this story encourages you, especially if you are on a similar path. Stand firm, your baby is on its way!
A little picture update on our miracle baby:
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Happy Holidays & (Belated) 6th Birthday, Dylan!
I apologize for the delay. I've been battling the seasonal cold, and my youngest has been fighting a mild case of pneumonia. Thankfully, I think we're on the up and up now.
This Christmas was a dream come true! It was everything I have ever hoped it would be...
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This Christmas was a dream come true! It was everything I have ever hoped it would be...
The festivities began on Christmas Eve. In keeping with tradition, we celebrated with my parents. We had them over for dinner, dessert, and gifts! Hudson was spoiled, to put it mildly.
Hudson wore his Christmas p.j.'s for the occasion.
He got the Vtech Smart Shots Sports Center from his grandma & grandpa. If Hudson is anything like his daddy, he'll be an all-star athlete, succeeding at whatever he puts his hands to.
Christmas morning was a quiet one at home. We had pancakes, bacon, and eggs for breakfast. My husband read us the story of Jesus(the REAL reason for the season!!!), and then Hudson opened presents from us.
Hudson loves Elmo!
December 28(Dylan's Birthday) was a quiet one...just how I like it. We celebrated with blue colored cupcakes, sporting the letter "D". I had picked out 6 white roses in honor of what would have been his 6th birthday. I enjoy looking at them, thinking of my sweet firstborn. We threw mini white roses on Dylan's grave as we said our final goodbyes. Interestingly, when I purchased the roses this year, the total came to $7.00 exactly. Dylan lived for exactly 7 perfect hours. God still gives me gentle reminders that He has not forgotten Dylan.
His little life has changed mine forever. I live more fearlessly than before. I love like it's my last day on Earth. I take bolder steps for Jesus. I don't take a single moment with my loved ones for granted.
For the first time in 6 years, this holiday season was all that it was supposed to be. Jesus. Family. Babies. Time together.
Happy birthday, my precious firstborn. I can hardly wait for the day we're reunited. I can't wait to introduce you to your stepdad and baby brother. You are never forgotten, my sweet boy.
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“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen”.
Just when we didn't think any year could be better than our year last year, God goes and wows us again! Here's the scoop:
We had been praying for a certain amount of money to cover our insurance costs for a second baby. God answered. He gave us the EXACT amount we had asked for through our tax returns this year. We called right away to set up an appointment to begin taking fertility medications again for Baby #2. Little did we know, God had already started the process of knitting together our next baby. No fertility meds were needed! Surprise!
We want you to know that God is NOT dead. He is very much alive, and active, even in our world today! We are living proof of this. He has redeemed our lives from the pits. He has turned our mourning into gladness. What was once only a prayer, has been brought forth into a very real dream come true. We give all of the glory to God! What He's done for us, He can and will do for you, too. Whatever your struggle, He wants to help. Please let Him.
Without further ado, we are beyond thrilled to introduce you to: Our DAUGHTER!!! Both my husband and I teared up at the words “It's a girl” at our 12 week appointment. She has perfect chromosomes, and received another clean bill of health at the 20 week baseline ultrasound. Oh, she also happens to be due on my birthday(November)! God definitely gives more than we could ever dream of asking for on our own.
For some reason, my husband and I have never had a girl's name chosen, not even with our first baby. So, she doesn't have a name yet which is so unusual for my type A personality, I know. I am thinking we will just wait to meet her to decide, and hope it's decided on before we leave the hospital.
I would totally appreciate your prayers for an uneventful pregnancy, and another safe delivery over these next 18 weeks.
Praying for God's blessings over your lives, too. ♡
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