October 31, 2016

A Letter to Our Family & Friends

Dear Family & Friends,

Words cannot express our love and appreciation for you all.  Your prayers, thoughts, good vibes, whatever it may be, we felt so much support from each and every one of you.

Going through In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) is very hard physically and emotionally.  It is so helpful having a support team.  Whether you are family, friends, or an acquaintance, you are a part of our team.  We could not do this alone, and you are a huge part of our life and story.

This morning I went in for the HCG blood draw, to find out if I was pregnant or not.  The nurse told me that they would call me with the results in the afternoon.

Sadly, they called and told me that the test came back negative.

We have been full of frustration, confusion, anger, and devastation.  I haven't been able to talk much, but have been able to cry and scream.  I know as the days go on things will get easier,  but it will take some time.

As of now, we don't know when we will continue with another round.  We will be meeting with Dr. Foulk (our fertility specialist) this coming month on November 21st; we hope to learn more about what issues may have caused the FET to be unsuccessful and to learn what steps lie ahead.

Although this isn't the result we were hoping and praying for, we believe it's all in the Lord's plan and timing...and we choose to accept that.

My dad shared a scripture with me that was perfect for the timing and situation today.  "Wait on the Lord: be of good courage and he shall strengthen thine heart; wait, I say, on the Lord." (Psalms 27:14)

Thank you again for being there for us.  We are so grateful for all of your love and support.

Love,
Ali and Scott

October 27, 2016

Patiently Waiting

Some of you may have seen this little video I made on one of my "Princess Days" last week after the transfer.  The "Princess Days" were basically the post-op directions, which meant I had to be a couch potato.  I didn't complain about that...it is nice every now and then just sit around and read and watch a show or movie all day.
Here's a small glimpse into what the day of the transfer was like for the two of us.  



On Saturday we decided to take a drive to meet up with Scotts's sister and her family in Midway.  We went to the best creamery I've been to since living in Idaho...and I have been missing that amazing ice cream fresh from those creameries!  After having a tasty little treat, we went and drove around looking at the beautiful homes there.  My Goodness!!!  I will admit it that I have a few dream home up there, and if Scott and I stay in Utah for the rest of our lives, we are moving to Midway!

After my Mom heard I was up in Midway/Heber not sitting at home on the couch being a "couch potato" she gave me those Mom eyes, we all now when we see them.  Haha.  So when I got home, I put her at ease by doing something she told me I needed to do every day to make those little embryos stick.


Now, we keep waiting until next week to find out if I am officially preggers.  Yes...I feel like it is taking for-ev-er but soon enough the day will be here that we can't wait for.

Until the next update!



October 14, 2016

Next Step: FET

You might be wondering, what does FET stand for?

Frozen Embryo Transfer.  That's right! Next Thursday, October 20, is the BIG day!

That means I'm back on a schedule with all the medications again.  To give you glimpse of everything that I'm using for the Frozen Embryo Transfer, here is everything...
Last week I started taking two estrogen shots a week, and that will continue.  Tomorrow I'll start taking a progesterone shot, which will continue daily.  Then Sunday and Monday are big days with the Z-pack and steroids (those only go for a few days of next week).  Then, it's Thursday, the Transfer Day!

If things go well and the embryo(s) take - we are implanting two - I'll continue shots for 10 more weeks.  I know that's a lot to keep doing, but it will all be worth it!

I still can't believe that the transfer day is here!  Just last month we were thinking we would transfer, and plans changed, for my health and a successful transfer.  Now, it's really happening and I'm getting all the butterflies about the whole thing every time I think about it.  This is such a big step and will completely change our family and future.  I am anxious to know how everything will go and what the end result will be.

I know this isn't much for now, but next week it is a BIG week and I'll share with you all as much as I possibly can!

October 7, 2016

A Few of My Favorite Things

This time of year is one of my favorite times of year.  Who doesn't love fall?! The beautiful colors, the cool breeze, wearing warm and cozy sweaters and scarves...the list could go on and on and on.
During the stressful and busy times of life, I like taking the time to think and reflect on a few of my favorite things.

The Alpine Loop in Utah is absolutely beautiful this time of year.  Scott and I took the time during General Conference this last week to drive my sisters up through the Alpine Loop.  I don't think words can express the beauty up that canyon, so here's the pictures I got on the drive.




Speaking of General Conference Weekend, I love knowing that there is a living prophet today.  He speaks to us and gives us the guidance and direction we need today.  Thomas S. Monson spoke as well as apostles and other leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  The words spoken we so powerful and gave me such a boost in my spirits.
One of my favorite speakers talked about Joy and how powerful it is.  Joy is incredible and can heal and bless your life and others as well.  I can't imagine life without joy.  There are so many things like fall, family, friends, school, baking, and more that bring joy into my life each and every day.


Another thing that I love, is loving so close to a place very close to my heart.  Temple Square.  I spent 18 months as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on the incredible Temple Square.  Anytime I have a chance to walk around those grounds, I reflect back on those days and remember the sweet people I met and all the incredible experiences I had.



One last thing I love doing, all year long, is working out! I always love trying new things, especially classes.  If you haven't heard of the new class HIGH, you're missing out! It is such a fun class and you get the best workout too! I have made some great friends and look up to so man of the teachers for the love and dedication to healthy lives.  I was lucky enough to snap the quick (sweaty) picture with two of my favorite teachers, Metta and Rochelle.  They have helped me in so many more ways than I ever thought a gym class teacher would.  They are more than just a teacher...they're the one's who give me strength, support, bring happiness into my life, make me feel good, and more.  If you know these two ladies consider yourself lucky, and if you don't you need to meet them! 



Find what makes you happy.  What are your favorite things? Figure out what they are and make sure you always have something in your life that makes you happy and brings joy into your life each and every day.