I recorded this episode weeks ago because it was on my heart, and is a topic that we don't talk about enough. The combination of the winter weather, things going on politically regarding infertility/IVF, and more can lead many people to feeling hopeless and like they are in a dark place. Today's episode may be triggering and is likely not suited for younger listeners. If you are having thoughts of self-harm please do reach out to get help. There are people that are willing and ready to listen. Just be reminded that you are not alone. I am sending a big comforting hug your way!

Resources

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - Call. Text. Chat. (988lifeline.org)

(888) 623-0744-Resolve National Infertility Association

Handling pregnancy announcements before, during, and after the holiday season can be overwhelming, heart breaking, disappointing, frustrating, painful, and so much more. It can take a lot to be happy for those that are celebrating this happy news/season in their lives. As a woman that struggles with multiple miscarriages, secondary infertility, and challenges to having another child on my own hearing/seeing pregnancy announcements often feel like someone pouring salt on an open wound. I am learning to embrace how I am feeling and not trying to hide the tears at times. I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, but at the same time I am tired of hiding my pain. It is ok to take it just one day at a time! I am sending big hugs your way. 

Today's episode features guest Joy Acaso, an anxiety support coach and licensed psychotherapist, who shared her experience with miscarriage and conceiving afterward.  She discussed the challenges she faced, including managing postpartum anxiety and balancing work and family life. 

I can't believe that 2023 is quickly coming to a close. To be honest reflecting on the past year is hard. The things that didn't happen in my life that I wanted to happen often overshadows all of the good things that happened. There were so many things that I can celebrate this year, blessings beyond which I can count. I am sorry if things did not turn out the way that you wanted or expected during 2023. I hope that 2024 is a better year for all of us. Thank you for coming on this podcasting journey with me. I will be taking a break for a couple of weeks, but I will be back at the end of January 2024. Talk to you soon.

There are many things that happen in life that can build up, and also chip away little by little at our self-worth. My past miscarriages and current struggles with infertility both negatively impact how I view myself. On the challenge days and seasons may you be reminded that your self-worth is not tied to your ability to conceive. That you are so much more than your accomplishments. That you have value and worth!

My conversation with guest Alycia Washington was a reminder of the importance of finding community and letting others help during the hardest times in our lives. Alycia Washington is a mother, wife, speaker, and so much more! During this episode we discuss her miscarriage, difficult pregnancies with her 2 sons, and finding herself again after being a parent. 

I have learned that many people may not know how to support a friend/family member/co-worker/stranger after they have experienced a pregnancy loss. This is a time of year when family interactions during get togethers will be more common. When the office holiday parties just keep coming... During this episode I discuss the do's and don'ts when it comes to supporting someone that is or has experienced a pregnancy loss. 

Recently I have been reflecting on the roles of a foster parent. My first experience as a foster parent did not go as planned, but I don't want to lose hope just yet. I recently met a family that reminded me of family, of community, and of home. I held a one-month-old baby that helped my longing for a child, but that reminded me that though it has been a challenge to conceive again that I still want to grow my family. I know that this holiday season be rough, but may you be able to hold on to hope.

Bible Verse

Psalms 68:5-6