WINNING INFERTILITY

This post has been weighing heavily on me. As I sit to write this down, I write it not just for me, but for you because if you're reading this you're either 1) intrigued about our infertility journey and success or 2) you're in the thick of infertility yourself and are either looking for to share your frustrations with or are looking for some guidance or hope. PS: this is another long post.

BLOG FACELIFT - SEQUINS AND DIRT

Oh how I've missed blogging. Life has been so busy that I haven't had a chance to really figure out my direction for the blog. Then it hit me! I should just continue making my blog about our life but it needed a face-lift - something simple and easy. So here we are. Nothing crazy right? Well, I've decided that I want to talk about a few areas of our life.

First, Motherhood. I am now officially the mother of 3, 3 and under - 3 year old boy, 1.5 year old, and a newborn baby girl. So naturally, I have lots of tips, tricks, and ideas that can help any mom. My goal is to promote motherhood happiness. There are so many reports of postpartum depression, so I want to change that number and help moms feel proud of the choices they make. I'm not perfect by any means, but if I can support just one mom and help her through her journey, then I will!

Next, I want to cover fitness. Before getting pregnant for the third time in 3 years, my husband and I were working out and I love sharing my journey in hopes of motivating others. This time around, I am focused on getting rid of my c-section pouch. I decided a while back that I wanted to focus on a Lazy/Dirty Keto lifestyle because it's a little easier to achieve then strict Keto. So I'll be sharing recipes and my journey as well.

I also want to cover our home decor/remodeling. Last year, November 2018, we built our first home and while I absolutely adore our home, there are a few changes that I want to make. Our style is Farmhouse/Fixer Upper. I love me some Joanna Gaines, so don't be surprised if you see that style throughout our remodeling posts.

Lastly, Lifestyle. This one is more just a general day-to-day. My obsession with leggings, boutiques I shop, makeup/hair trends or styles, traveling, overcoming infertility, budgeting and my other obsession (Dave Ramsey) - literally anything, and everything!

Stay tuned! Lots of good stuff coming soon.

NEW DOCUSERIES - DOCUMENTING DISNEY

There is so much I want to share with you!!!


First off, for those that have been following me for a few years now know that I battled and defeated unexplained infertility. We welcomed our first little bouncing baby boy on August 23, 2016. What you don't know, because I failed to update this blog, is that we welcomed our second bouncing baby boy on May 1, 2018! It's been a whirlwind! First, we had no idea that we would ever get pregnant with our first - mainly because Dr's advised that it wasn't possible without IVF. However, we had some tricks up our sleeves, and within 5-6 months, we were naturally pregnant. Then, we found out just 1 day before our first son's first birthday that we were expecting again!

We are blessed!

I know I've already said it, but I really do have so many things I want to share with you.

However, this post is going to be specifically about our new Blog Docu-Series called
"Documenting Disney."

We have FINALLY booked our family vacation to Disney World. I have planned and researched, and planned and researched, and was able to score a 7 night, 8 day stay on Disney World property for less than $2,000 for our family of four. In addition, we also have the Disney dining plan which means all of our meals are covered!

Since Disney World is a hot topic in most households, I thought I'd share all of the things I've learned. I have literally been planning and researching Disney for over 2 years and after hours and days, and weeks, and years, I have all of the information you need.

So, stay tuned for that!

And stay tuned for my 2018 recap post where I'm dishing the details on our crazy amazing 2018!

OPK | CYCLE DAY 16 : CLOMID YEAR 2 • ROUND 3 {09.25.2015}

 Technically, you will not see an OPK from CD 16 because I stopped testing after my positive OPK. Typically, when using the ClearBlue Digital, after a positive you are no longer able to test so I figured I would use the same "process" with the Answer tests. After today, I will only have one more day of BDing and then Sunday, CD 18, I will begin Progesterone as well as the Two Week Wait. Anyways, here is the last OPK and cycle update.

 

OPK | CYCLE DAY 16 : CLOMID YEAR 2 • ROUND 3 

 

*top to bottom* 

CD11 (11am) - negative, very faint

CD11 (6 pm)- negative, extremely faint

CD12 (11am)- negative, line is getting darker but is still faint

CD12 (6 pm) - negative, very faint

CD13 (11 am)- negative, getting darker but still faint

CD13 (6 pm)- negative, very faint
CD14 (11am) - negative, darker than CD 13 but faint

CD14 (9pm) - negative, very faint
CD15 (5am) - negative, waiting for the positive knowing that O is close
CD15 (10am) - positive, as dark as the control line
*ovulation took place on CD15; last OPK @ 10am*

*side by side comparison of morning OPKs*

In this photo you can see the progression to O. They were getting slightly darker but not nearly as dark as the morning of CD15 when I ovulated.
 

***********Cycle Update Below***********
 

Fertility Chart

This cycle I tried to pay attention to the signs my body was giving me in terms of my CM. The day my temperature dipped is also the day that I received a positive OPK so I know O took place between 11am on CD 14 and 10am on CD15. My temp will need to rise for two more days before the Fertility Friend app will recognize that CD 15 was O day.

Ovia Fertility Monitor

I think I've been on "12 days until pregnancy test" for about two days now. Every day, the Ovia app tries to update the information so I never know what it's doing but I do like that it gives you cycle information and uses your cycle data to give you notes about certain things that take place.

Sperm Meets Egg Plan

•{Pineapple Core}

Start on Cycle day 16

9/25
*start only after positive OPK*

•{Two Week Wait}

Cycle days 18 thru 30

9/27 thru 10/09

•{HPT}

Cycle days 30 thru 35

10/09 thru 10/14

•{Progesterone}

Start on Cycle day 18

9/27


 

OPK | CYCLE DAY 12 : CLOMID YEAR 2 • ROUND 3 {09.21.2015}

I'm thinking I may do updates on the OPKs every other day. So post on CD 12 to give an update on CD 11 and CD 12; post on CD 14 for an update on CD 13 and CD 14; post on CD 16 for an update on CD 15 and CD 16; last OPK post will be on CD 18 to give an update on CD 17. Does that make sense? If not, that's ok, just come back daily for updates and blog posts.

So E and I have bets going to see what day I will ovulate. I guessed CD 13 and E guessed CD 15. We will see who wins...winner gets a backrub!

OPK | CYCLE DAY 12 : CLOMID YEAR 2 • ROUND 3 

 *top test* 
CD11 (11am) - negative, very faint

*middle test* 

CD11 (6pm)- negative, extremely faint

*bottom test* 

CD12 (11am)- negative, line is getting darker but is still very faint

 

 

***********Cycle Update Below***********

Fertility Chart

 I am pleasantly surprised to see that my temps are between 97.2 - 97.7. Very unusual for them to be that kind of "normal." (Round of applause for Clomid for helping with this.)

Ovia Fertility Monitor

This app is frustrating at times because I never feel it's right. I know the app is not familiar with Clomid and how it works, so hopefully it will update accordingly when I get my positive OPK.

 

Sperm Meets Egg Plan
•{Clomid}
Cycle days 2 thru 6:
9/11, 9/12, 9/13, 9/14, 9/15

•{Baby Dance}
Cycle days 9 thru 17:
9/16, 9/18, 9/20, 9/22, 9/24, 9/26
updated

•{OPKs}
 Cycle days 11 thru 17:
9/20 thru 9/26
updated - twice a day (1) @ 11am & (2) @ 6pm

•{Two Week Wait}
Cycle days 18 thru 30
9/27 thru 10/09

•{HPT}
Cycle days 30 thru 35
10/09 thru 10/14

•{Progesterone}
Start on Cycle day 18
9/27

 

INFERTILITY IS... {09.17.2015}

Infertility is...

Watching your husband playing with your friend's baby and
wishing you could give him one of his own.

Telling nurses to please take blood from your right arm because the veins in your left arm are all gone because of all the IVs you've had.

Avoiding people you haven't seen for a long time because you
don't want to hear the question, "Do you have any kids yet?".

Feeling very left out when your friends start comparing their
pregnancy or childbirth experiences.

Feeling like the whole town is pregnant except for you.

Getting tired of people always expecting you to do things
because "you don't have any kids to worry about".

Waking up in the middle of the night and wishing you could hear your baby crying.

Wishing you could give your parents grandchildren.

Wanting to fall apart if one other person says, "Why don't
you adopt?" Easy, right?

Sometimes avoiding friends who are pregnant or with newborns because you just can't handle the situation at that moment.

Every single time you babysit someone else's kid they go off about how you are getting "practice." I want my own child, I know how to change a diaper. Thanks.

Credits: How to Have a Baby: Overcoming Infertility

********************************************************************************

 

For all my TTC Sisters, I know the road is long and there's never a day we don't wonder or question "why me?" Sometimes God's greater plan is harder to see. Sometimes His plan is never on our time but He is always on time and always at the perfect time.

 

I think we forget that we are not in control. Even when you take medication, go through with IVF, use a surrogate, or adopt, nothing we do is in our hands. Everything is in His hands. I read an amazing blog post yesterday from Oh Baby, Baby's blog. She captured perfectly in one post how important it is to remember that each trial, and every tribulation we walk through has a greater purpose. Every time a cycle fails, a miscarriage takes place, or a baby is born still, it's completely up to Him. He knows what He is doing for us and we must be reminded everyday that His plan for us, which may take longer than we'd like, is always for the better.

*Read Oh Baby Baby's inspiring post here! *

 

With every road we walk, every step we take, we must know that God is right there beside us. Isn't it an wonderful feeling to know that someone loves us unconditionally? What an amazing Father we have.

 

WHAT YOU NEED TO CONCEIVE {07.15.2015}

Due to the fact that I have an overwhelmingly large number of readers who are in the TTC world, I wanted to put this up. Keep in mind that E and I are no longer in the TTC world, we have basically taken one huge leap away from that world for a while, but for my ladies that do read this blog, waiting for the TTC posts, here is one just for you.

 

It is crucial that you are taking the correct vitamins for you and your future embryo. Those little eggies need all the vitamins and supplemental boosts they can get. Here are 10 of vitamins you need to conceive!

 

#1 Zinc
#2 Folic Acid

#3 Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

#4 Omega 3 Free Fatty Acid

#5 Iron

#6 Calcium

#7 Vitamin B6

#8 Vitamin B12

#9 Fish Oil

#10 Prenatal

 

Take this list to your nearest pharmacy and stock up ladies, you are going to want all you can get to make that healthy miracle baby.

 

I also wanted to share some other tips and tricks for conception.

 

Pinapple

Although I am not a doctor, I have heard some amazing things about pineapple. If you eat this magical fruit, mainly the core, after ovulation has been determined, you will have a better chance of implantation. You can thank Brolemain, an enzyme found in pineapples, for the help. How much do I believe this? Well, to be honest I'm not sure. I did eat pineapple core with our second pregnancy, in January, which was successful in landing a BFP but I'm not sure how much this factored in. Worth a try though!

 

Acupuncture

I'm sure you've heard me talk about this before, and with good reason. In addition to the pineapple back in January, I was also seeing an acupuncturist weekly throughout my cycle. Not just for fertility, but for relaxation, Acupuncture is so important for balancing systems throughout your body. During a TTC journey, it's easy to get caught up in the frustration and stress, Acupuncture allows us to breathe and calm our body and minds. After all, the most important thing you can do for your future pregnancy is ensure that you aren't stressed.

 

Weightloss

Now, don't hate me for saying this, but weight plays a very vital roll in fertility. If you are even five pounds over your "normal" body weight, your fertility will be negatively affected. Just like the round in January, I was doing all three of these things. I managed to lose about 30 pounds and, although it wasn't easy, we sure managed to get pregnant first cycle after a whole year break. I'm not saying that it's impossible to get pregnant if you are five pounds overweight, but the healthier you are, the better your chances.

 

SMEP Plan

Just go back and look at anyone of my posts from the last cycle in April or the one in January, and you will see that I am an avid believer in the SMEP Plan. I found this little gem searching the web and it has worked wonders for us. Again, we were successful while using this in January. This plan is crucial and can help you and hubby stay on track. Best part is, this plan keeps the man and woman accountable during the TTC journey. It's important that men build up their swimmers, so waiting at least one day for that to build up is so important. Another thing is, it helps remind us to pay attention to dates and timing so as to not miss our small window of opportunity. Find out more about the SMEP Plan here.

 

 

SPEAK UP {05.07.2015}

I am not normally the type of person to "vent" or complain about things. I usually always try to see the bright side of everything, but recently, there has been something weighing on my mind. For my fellow TTC sisters, you know first hand how frustrating it can be when you know you were made to do something so simple as have sex, and get pregnant, and can't do it on your own! It's not only frustrating, it's degrading. It {infertility} goes against everything we were taught in our younger years. I still remember clear as day all my High School teachers talking and preaching about how easy it is to get pregnant. Well, that's not true for everyone. Not for E and I, or the other 1 out of 8 couples out there.

Back to that thing on my mind...recently I was talking with a friend about my 3 years long TTC journey. And as we were talking, she reminded me how she "briefly" struggled. Now, please don't take this the wrong way. But if you only "struggled" for less than a year to get pregnant, then that wasn't really much of a struggle was it? Sure, you probably had some frustration and heartache in there, but less than 1 year verses the likes of couples such as E and I who have had this battle on-going for 3+ years...So, she reminded me about her "brief" months of TTC and how she was so upset and angry. She talked about how she tried X, Y, and Z things and nothing worked until she finally just "gave up." Then BOOM! She was pregnant!

Well here's the thing...let me just let you in on an extremely short version of my TTC journey with E.

For the first year of TTC we had no idea why we couldn't get pregnant but assumed it was due to no ovulation or PCOS. To our surprise, I had no PCOS but was right on the money with the no ovulation part. The Dr put me on Provera to start my period (since I barely ever had one), then drugged me with Clomid and this continued for 5 rounds. We got pregnant after the second round of 100mg Clomid but lost the baby at 10 weeks. Then, we got pregnant again after the four round of 100mg Clomid but lost that baby at 6 weeks. Now, I am facing Provera, Clomid, Progesterone, countless ultrasounds and blood draws, and yet all my tests keep coming back perfectly fine! Guess you could call it "Unexplained Infertility." Well, you can imagine the frustration when people (not just friends and family) say things like: "just relax, it will happen" "oh don't worry, I struggled for a few months too and it happened pretty fast" ect., ect., ect.

I would never wish infertility on anyone, but sometimes it can be so annoying when people don't realize that it just isn't like that for some people. E and I have tried the "relax it will happen" all of 2014 and guess what? I didn't have but maybe 2 cycles with 0 ovulation and surprise, surprise- I did not get pregnant! Sure 1 year maybe isn't enough for the time period people would like to hear but either way we tried it and nothing happened. We can't just sit around waiting for cycles that never happen, trying to get pregnant on cycles where I don't ovulate because I didn't take medication.

Maybe that's the most frustrating part. E and I really have no option but to use medication. We have both been tested and are absolutely fine. No major problems other than Dr's have no idea why we can't get pregnant on our own or keep the baby. At the end of the day, I just want people around the world to realize that infertility is a battle, a struggle, an on-going, endless circle of aggravation, sadness, and pain. It's not fun. No one wakes up and thinks, "I'd LOVE to be able to struggle through infertility for a few years, waste a whole lot of money, and get absolutely nothing out of it but maybe a few miscarriages and heartaches." Most of us TTC ladies wake up thinking, "My only dream and prayer is to be able to carry one, healthy baby to full term." Crazy huh? Half of the TTC community would celebrate every single day of the rest of our lives if we could just get one little baby and yet, there are people out there with two or more just waiting to find ways to get rid of them or complain about how hard it is and how "you should just wait" or "come babysit then you wont want children."

I guess this venting session was really just a way for me to get out all my thoughts. Maybe people need to see the heartache because even though I may seem happy all the time, I can promise you that my heartbreaks just the same as everyone else's. And that goes for the TTC community as a whole. Even the few that get pregnant in less than a year, I know their hearts break too from the sight of those negative pregnancy tests, bad news Dr's appointments, and degrading comments from passers standing by.

Let me just leave on at least a few good notes. 1) I have faith. I have faith that the Lord, my Savior, my God will keep His word for me to go forth, be fruitful, and multiply. 2) I have learned how to be grateful in the good times, and faithful in the bad times. 3) No matter what, keep going! I always remind myself that a dream or goal is worth the wait and the hard work. 4) Sometimes things don't go your way. Too many times TTC sisters turn their backs from God because they can't understand why we aren't getting what we want, when the truth is, God isn't giving us what we want because He has already planned what we need to fulfill our lives. And Lastly, 5) always find hope and grace in the journey. There are so many negative things to be said and thought about infertility, but bottom line is, the journey makes that healthy miracle baby all worth it. And, if you're lucky, will blossom a whole new relationship with your significant other.

God Bless, Baby Dust, and Well Wishes to my TTC Sisters

PROVERA • DAYS 1-5 {04.19.2015}

I promised myself that I would keep the blog updated with fitness, life, and TTC info. I decided to follow the same format I followed back in January. Check out Provera Days 1-5 below!!!

Provera Day 1 ~ 04/15
Cycle Day: --- (cycle has not started yet)

Medication: Provera 10mg

Symptoms: None, I usually do not have very many on day 1

OPK or HPT: ---

Milestones: Nothing...I was still waiting to hear back from my Dr's office about the blood work results

Fertility Chart: Will upload on cycle day 1

Provera Day 2 ~ 04/16

Cycle Day: --- (cycle has not started yet)

Medication: Provera 10mg

Symptoms: More than likely it was from my crazy hard workout at 3am, but I felt nauseous and just strange; I wasn't very hungry all day and just had no interest in eating

OPK or HPT: ---

Milestones: After calling my Dr's office for the third time and two emails later, I finally got an answer from my Dr's office on my blood work results

Fertility Chart: ---

Provera Day 3 ~ 04/17

Cycle Day: --- (cycle has not started yet)

Medication: Provera 10mg

Symptoms: Slight cramping

OPK or HPT: ---

Milestones: I feel really great/positive and looking forward to this cycle

Fertility Chart:---

Provera Day 4 ~ 04/18

Cycle Day: --- (cycle has not started yet)

Medication: Provera 10mg

Symptoms: More cramping but not terrible

OPK or HPT: ---

Milestones: Have been doing a great job of keeping up with my BBT charting

Fertility Chart: ---

Provera Day 5 ~ 04/19

Cycle Day: --- (cycle has not started yet)

Medication: Provera 10mg

Symptoms: None!

OPK or HPT: ---

Milestones: Taking Pre-Natals daily and feel great for remembering

Fertility Chart: ---

TTC HAUL VIDEO & MORE {04.02.2015}

So this is the Rainbow Edition of my TTC Haul! This is a list of the items that help our TTC journey and if you are new to the TTC world, maybe these will help you too! I went ahead and added my YouTube video as well so you can watch. For reference, I went ahead and added the list below...Enjoy!!!

TTC HAUL : RAINBOW BABY EDITION

Provera - 5 Days at 10MG

• This is a prescription drug that is take to help start AF
• Used typically in conjunction with fertility drugs/treatment but can definitely be used without

Clomid - CD 2 thru 6 at 100MG

• This is a prescription drug that is taken to force the body to ovulate
• Used for women who have been TTC for more than 1year if under 35, or 6months if over 35

OPKs - 10 Days using Clear Blue and First Response

• Can be purchased at convenience/grocery stores
• Assists in tracking ovulation
• Works best if used in conjunction with BBT charting and CM tracking

Pre-Seed - CD 8 thru 20 (every other day)

• Can be purchased at convenience/grocery stores
• Use at least 10 minutes before BDing if injecting, of immediately before if using just as an assistant to BDing if dry due to fertility medications

Progesterone - Daily, after positive OPK

• This is a prescription drug that is taken only after ovulation takes place
• Helps produce more progesterone in the body
• Promotes health fetus growth
• *has the potential to eliminate the possibility of miscarriage*
• Only taken up to 10 weeks of pregnancy

 

Remember to keep your heads up ladies! We WILL get our Rainbow babies!

 

 

Wishes, Love, and Baby Dust to all my fellow TTC Sisters out there!

 

 

P.S.: Next Doctor's appointment is scheduled for Wednesday, April 8 at 9:20am. I am looking forward to sharing this "hisk risk", bumpy but blessed, TTC Journey!

 



PROVERA • DAYS 1-5 {01.09.2015}

Last Monday, January 5, I returned to my OBGYN's office after a whole year off TTC duty. It was refreshing to be back in the TTC world, but it definitely brought back memories...good and bad. After my appointment, I filled a prescription for Provera. Provera, in simple terms, is a medication administered by a Doctor to start a woman's menstrual cycle. I took this pill for five days: January 5 through January 9. I wanted to do a cycle update, to key you in on some of the things that took place during those five days. This will hopefully help anyone who is looking into getting on Provera or anyone that may be about to start taking Provera. Here are my five days of updates...

Provera Day 1 ~ 01/05
Cycle Day: --- (cycle has not started yet)

Medication: Provera 10mg

Symptoms: None, I really didn't expect any since I took the pill around 8pm

OPK or HPT: ---

Next Dr. Appt.: Not scheduled yet

Milestones: Feeling confident, I was so nervous taking the pill but I swallowed it and I feel like that is a pretty big milestone so far

Fertility Chart: Will upload once cycle begins, starting on day 1

Provera Day 2 ~ 01/06

Cycle Day: --- (cycle has not started yet)

Medication: Provera 10mg

Symptoms: Feeling residual from yesterdays but a little sore boobs and a few cramps throughout the day but eventually subsided

OPK or HPT: ---

Next Dr. Appt.: Not scheduled yet

Milestones: None today

Fertility Chart: Will upload once cycle begins, starting on day 1

Provera Day 3 ~ 01/07

Cycle Day: --- (cycle has not started yet)

Medication: Provera 10mg

Symptoms: Same thing, just sore boobs

OPK or HPT: ---

Next Dr. Appt.: Still not scheduled

Milestones: Nothing...boo!!!!

Fertility Chart:---

Provera Day 4 ~ 01/08

Cycle Day: --- (cycle has not started yet)

Medication: Provera 10mg

Symptoms: Boobs and horrible tight, pinching cramps right around 5:30pm, headache hit around the same time as the cramps

OPK or HPT: ---

Next Dr. Appt.: Nope, not yet hehe

Milestones: I did remember to take my temp this morning, finally!!!

Fertility Chart: ---

Provera Day 5 ~ 01/09

Cycle Day: --- (cycle has not started yet)

Medication: Provera 10mg

Symptoms: Boobs feel heavy and soreness is on and off throughout the day, cramps have only hit about three times today and it was not nearly as bad as Thursday, also I've had a headache all day but have felt no sickness and a good amount of energy so I know it's not getting sick, possibly Provera

OPK or HPT: ---

Next Dr. Appt.: Not quite yet

Milestones: Feel pretty proud to have successfully remembered to take a prenatal every morning, I also remembered to take my temp this morning YAY, and today was my last day of Provera HIP HIP HOORAY!

Fertility Chart: ---

OBGYN | RECAP {01.05.2015}

This afternoon around 3:30pm was my much awaited visit with my OBGYN, who I haven't seen since our miscarriage back in October of 2013. Nerves, butterflies, excitement, and even a little bit of questioning our decisions went down. I arrived to the office and immediately felt sick to my stomach. I could feel the butterflies swirling around reminding me of the same drive we made when we would find out our baby gained his or her wings. It was also the same drive we made when I had to go through the dreaded D&C Procedure. 

After I checked in, I sat calmly and continued to remind myself that this is our year and we will get pregnant with our healthy rainbow baby. The nurse called me back and asked me what I was wanting to speak with the Dr. about. I let her know it was to continue fertility treatment and she walked me to another waiting room, this one was the same one we sat in when we waited for the ultrasound. I waited for another 30 minutes and finally it was time to see my doctor. He was very welcoming and I told him that E and I had been gone for so long because we just needed some time to "reset." He understood and explained that miscarriages are hard for anyone and it was understandable for us to have taken a break. I told him that I wanted to begin Clomid again and he understood. We talked for a few minutes before I handed him E's semen analysis. He immediately said "wow!, he is seriously good to go." I just giggled because that's the same thing the fertility specialist said. He gave me a prescription for five 10mg of Provera and ten 50mg of Clomid to be taken twice a day, so 100mg a day for five days. The only thing he changed was the days in which I will take Clomid. Used to be, I would take Clomid on days three through seven of my cycle. Now I will be taking it on days two through six. Before I took my prescription note, he said "next time I see you, you will be pregnant." E and I wholeheartedly believe that January will be our month. 

To all my TTC Sisters, I want to wish you the best of luck and I know in my heart that this is our year to get our healthy babies. 

Baby Dust and God Bless

The XYZ Box {10.11.2014}

I really wanted to write about this box after finding out about it from a fellow vlogger, who happens to be the creator. Right now, if you order the box, 10% of proceeds will go towards Making Strides Against Breast Cancer (as it is breast cancer awareness month), another 10% will also go towards The Zygote Foundation for the Advancement of Fertility Research to help build funds for grants for infertility. When you purchase your monthly subscription box, you will receive pregnancy and ovulation tests, one beauty item, one comfort item, and one stress relief item at minimum. Below is a photo of this months box.

This particular box included: 1 first response pregnancy test, 5 wondfo pregnancy tests, 5 wondfo ovulation tests, 1 thank you card, 1 2015 monthly pocket calendar, 1 pink rubber duck for breast cancer, 1 nail polish, 1 milk chocolate candy bar, 1 package of charmin to-go toilet seat covers, 1 package of fall themed tea light candles, and 1 fall themed glass tea light candle holder.

This is a great product because for women who are on their TTC journey, sometimes the little things make a big difference. I have been on the lookout for a TTC box, and when I came accross it, I had to have it! Best part, as you know. I love to POAS (pee on a stick) and this box will provide monthly ovulation tests and pregnancy tests...PERFECT! I also really like the fact that there are other fun items in the box to keep the TTC couple at peace during their TTC journey. If you would like to find out more, or order your XYZ Box, visit www.xyzttc.com. Let me know if you order yours and what you think! 

Well Wishes and Baby Dust

***Disclaimer: I am not a paid blogger or spokesperson for the XYZ Box, nor do I personally know the creator.***

PCOS Diet Day 5 Week 2 {10.10.2014}

PCOS Diet Day 5 Week 2

Weight (day 1 week 1 morning): 174.6

Weight (day 3 week 2 morning): 

---

Weight lost: ---

Food today:

B- boiled egg, green grapes, and mozzarella stick

S1-  pineapple

L- grilled chicken salad with olive oil and red wine vinegar

S2- none

D- Cheat night! But watched how much I ate

S3- none

Energy: feeling great! Loving all my new TTC products! Really making me feel positive about this cycle

Anything else: not at this time, just really excited about the possibility of getting pregnant (fingers crossed)

*********************************

Well Wishes & Baby Dust

PCOS Diet Day 4 Week 2 {10.09.2014}

PCOS Diet Day 4 Week 2

Weight (day 1 week 1 morning): 174.6

Weight (day 3 week 2 morning): 

169.2

Weight lost: 5.4 lbs.

Food today:

B- egg and green bell pepper omlete

S1-  pineapple

L- grilled chicken salad with olive oil

S2- pumpkin seeds

D- Cajun rotisserie chicken and squash cooked in coconut oil

S3- black olives

Energy: tired since we didn't go to bed until midnight

Anything else: 5 lbs down, with no exercise, still feeling very confident about this cycle and keeping my fingers crossed for a bfp 

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I'm really looking forward to tomorrow's post, so be sure to check in tomorrow! Have a wonderful evening!

Well Wishes & Baby Dust

TTC Essentials {10.09.2014}

Hello Ladies!!!

Today, the focus is going to be all about TTC Essentials! I’m not going to spend time typing up a story…instead, I have added the video for your viewing pleasure. This is obviously just a few of the things that I suggest. The PCOS Diet is a MAJOR part of this TTC journey, these are just “boosters” to help push that little sperm and egg to meet and stick. So enjoy the video!

I will be posting a video using my first OPK (digital style-whoop whoop!) on CD 8 which is October 12, this Sunday! Keep in mind that the box does have 10 tests so I will be using those until October 21. I will keep you posted on as details come up but for the most part, this is what I’ve got for you. I hope that you are trying a few of these things! If so, let me know how it is going and definitely let me know if you get your BFP.

Well Wishes and Baby Dust

PCOS Diet Day 3 Week 2 {10.08.2014}

Stay tuned because I have a great post for PCOS, or really any TTC couple. Also, Friday I will have a fun post for more inspiration this Fall! 

Here are my stats for this Week 2 so far...

PCOS Diet Day 3 Week 2

Weight (day 1 morning): 174.6

Weight (day 3 morning): no weight taken

Weight lost: ------

Food today:

B- egg and green bell pepper omlete

S1-  orange

L- leftover Genghis Grill and pineapple

S2- orange

D- chicken, mushrooms, and zucchini all cooked in coconut oil. 

S3- black olives

Energy: not terrible. Still a little tired even though we went to bed early but I'm starting to think that it may be my period that makes me tired. But I was also very focused.

Anything else: had my acupuncture appointment today, and after the appointment my period got a little heavier so it must be working! 

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If my period does not go away tomorrow, I will only be charting my BBT and will not start the OPKs. As soon as AF goes away, I will being using the OPKs. For those that will be joining me for this months TTC, this is for us...

Well Wishes & Baby Dust

PCOS Diet Day 2 Week 2 *Quick Update* {10.07.2014}

PCOS Diet Day 2 Week 2

Weight (day 1 morning): 

174.6

Weight (day 1 morning): 

did not weigh

Weight lost: ---

Food today:

B- boiled egg, green grapes, and mozzarella cheese stick

S1- pineapple

L- grilled chicken salad with olive oil & vinegar

S2- almonds

D- Genghis grill...yay! And it's still healthy 

S3- none

Energy: soo soo tired, headache all day, backache pretty bad but I was very focused and completed all my work and more! 

Anything else: period is coming to an end, probably tomorrow, I will be picking up ovulation tests tomorrow afternoon. 

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I will being charting temperatures and taking daily ovulation tests and will add the deets on the blog for you. 

Well Wishes and Baby Dust

PCOS Diet Day 1 Week 2 {10.06.2014}

Good evening everybody! 

Thank you for stopping by. I just want to give you guys a quick update so here it goes...

PCOS Diet Day 1 Week 2

Weight (day 1 morning): 

174.6

Weight (day 1 morning): 

173.2

Weight lost: 1.4

Food today:

B- boiled egg, green grapes, and mozzarella cheese stick

S1- pineapple

L- grilled chicken salad with olive oil & vinegar

S2- pumpkin seeds

D- chicken, mushrooms, and green beans cooked in coconut oil 

S3- none

Energy: ehh! I have been feeling a little tired today and more irritable then usual but I am getting stuff done

Anything else: not at this time...I have my acuity it's appointment coming up...YAY!

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Will be posting some fun stuff pretty soon...stay tuned!

Well Wishes and Baby Dust

Meal Prepping, Planning, & Organizing

Today we will talk about Meal Planning, Prepping, and Organization! 

Let's start with...

Meal Planning! 

This is always fun for me because I love being organized and if I have a schedule, I usually can stick to it. Follow along with my photos to see how I meal plan.

1)

First I start with the pervious weeks planner.

2) 

I cross out what I don't need for this week (usually because I have left overs) and then I circle things I will need to double up on. You can also see that I will write how many times or how many of those items I will need. 

3) 

I write down my grocery list based off of my highlights, circles, and numbers. 

4) 

I plan my meals for the week. The top meal is dinner, below that is my breakfast and off to the side are my snacks for that day. The hubs usually grabs lunch so I don't make him anything.

5)

& now it's time to go shopping! 

Pretty simple for meal planning. Now on to...

Meal Prepping!

Basically I will go down the list of lunches and snacks and pre-pack everything. I do not pre-cook dinners, however I will pre-cut and pre-package my veggies. Here are some samples of what I package...

Here is my green bell pepper and egg omelet, seasoned with Cajun seasoning. 

This is my favorite meal prep breakfast! 1 boiled egg, green grapes, and mozzarella string cheese. (My typical breakfast if you've been following my PCOS Diet Days)

And I do make the hubs eggs and bacon...so delicious...I'm so jealous!! Hehe 

Now let's move to the final topic...

Meal Organization!

I love my fridge! Probably one of my most favorite things. It is so organized and I'll explain how I organize it. 

Alrightly, so obviously at the bottom we have two drawers left drawer is veggies, right is fruits. (Pretty basic lol)

Above that is drinks! (BTW we had more gallons but I left them in the car)

In the little drawer I keep cheese sticks, bacon, and any extra things that might be hanging around.

Next is the breakfast and lunch packages. Far left is my breakfast packages, next to that is the hubs' breakfast packages, beside that is my lunches which are salads and grilled chicken, and then finally far right is chicken for dinners. 

Top level far right are my pineapple packages, I do have a few more days of lunches on the top, but to the far right, is all of our chopped veggies in individual containers. 

Well ladies, that is all I've got for Meal Planning, Prepping, and Organization. I hope this inspires you. Before I end, I always cook all the food (boiled eggs, scrambled eggs, bacon, and my grilled chicken for the salads) the day I go grocery shopping. I also chop up all the veggies that day as well. It makes dinners so easy when I just have to cook the chicken or fish and throw the veggies in a pan. Makes meal time so easy! I hope you enjoyed this and I hope it helps you! 

For those interested...here is a Meal Plan chart that you can use: http://www.theprojectgirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/mealplanner22.gif

Well Wishes and Baby Dust