Staying Positive

So, as many of you know or have guessed, Mike and I had another disappointing month in the world of fertility. This was the most crushing negative, since we had indications and feelings that we were finally successful. After a few days of feeling very down and depressed, I have decided that I am going to stay positive and look on the bright side at the great things we have. I have started to exercise, get out of the house more, and let go of the negative thoughts and feelings.

With Thanksgiving just a week away and my attempting to look on the positive side of life.
Here is a few things that I am thankful for:

• The fact that Mike and I both have good paying, secure jobs that we enjoy
• The fact that though I have lost a lot in the way of family these last few years, I have a Mom that is extremely interested and involved in my life
• The goods friends that I have made here in Cheese town and the strengthened friendships with people back in MI (Absence really does make the heart grow fonder)
• Our wonderful new home that shelters us from the wind and cold in a time when so many people are homeless
• My wonderful husband who has been with me for 10 years now and has supported me through every storm and in every mood, be it rational or not
• Last, but not least, the fact that though we may not have everything that we want, we have a lot. There are many people out there who are going without the basic comforts that we take for granted.

This list is going to be my new focus as we continue trying for the family that we so desperately seek. Thanks to everyone for your continued thoughts, encouragement, and (this is really hard for me) PRAYERS.

Today is a "RAINY DAY"

The day is cold, and dark, and dreary;

It rains, and the wind is never weary;

The vine still clings to the moldering wall,

But at every gust the dead leaves fall,

And the day is dark and dreary.

My life is cold, and dark, and dreary;

It rains, and the wind is never weary;

My thoughts still cling to the moldering Past,

But the hopes of youth fall thick in the blast

And the days are dark and dreary.

Be still, sad heart! and cease repining;

Behind the clouds is the sun still shining;

Thy fate is the common fate of all,

Into each life some rain must fall,

Some days must be dark and dreary.

Weekend Raod Trip

This Saturday Mike planned a great road trip for us to go on. First we started out with a tour of the Jelly Belly Factory in Kenosha. This was really fun and included free candy and a train ride through the factory. Everyone loves themselves a Jelly Belly!I named this guy Jelly Belly Bob. He is a sour cherry JB, which is the number one in the USA.

Here are Mike and I wearing our oh so cool hats and posing with Jelly Belly Bob. Following the JB factory Mike and I had a great time shopping at both the outlet mall and the artsy, fartsy town of Racine. I know my husband is the greatest. LOVE YOU BABE!!!

GOOD NEWS!!

I just heard from my friend Diann, who's not quite 2 year old daughter Madeline had her tonsils out this morning. The news is very good!! Madeline is out of surgery and resting comfortably, "cuddling with Daddy". Though she will have to spend the night at the hospital at least the procedure is done. Rest well little one. Love Kate

Encouragement Please

So, I know that this sounds pathetic, but with us moving away from family and friends and me not having any siblings, I need some encouragement. As some of you know Mike and I have been trying for about 7 months to have a baby without any success. This is very disheartening, especially for me working in a clinic and seeing all the pregnant women, half of them not even wanting to have a baby. Added to this is the fact that though we are very happy for our new nephew, but somewhat jealous and wondering why it can't happen for us. So if anyone has any encouragement or inspiring words please share them. Thanks for letting me pour my heart out. Kate

California here we come!!

So Mike and I are going to get an early Christmas present. Mike's company is sending him to California to train some other employees the second week in December, and I get to go along!!! We are going to leave Dec 14th and return on the 21st. Neither of us has ever been to the West Coast and are really excited to take a vacation. We will be staying in southern California, near San Diego. If anyone has been there, or know anyone who has, we would appreciate any info. Looking forward to the sun, fun, and time away. Kate

Another Birthday Shout Out

I would like to send another birthday shout out to my little guy Owen. The big "O" is 4 months old today. He is growing up so fast already. Here he is reading a book with Dad.

Look at that concentration. He's going to be a smart one!

Happy 2 week Birthday Peyton Delaney Sanford!

I thought that everyone would enjoy a picture of Peyton Delaney Sanford. She is the 2 week old daughter of Jack and Lori Sanford (Hiligan). I recieved this photo last night and since she is 2 weeks old today I thought that I would share. ENJOY

Isn't she a serious little thing.

Busy Weekend!!

This past weekend was a very busy one for Mike and I. We started out with a 4 hour drive back to MI on Friday afternoon. We wanted to get their early to visit our favorite "Little Monster" Owen. He was actually only dressed like a monster and as always was a adorable angel.

Saturday was a very special day that started with Mike and my first visit with our new nephew Cohen. Though Cohen is proving to be quite a fussy baby, he took to me right away and was content to lay in my arms and "talk". The hour visit went by much too fast and before we knew it it was time to head to our next engagement.

The original reason for our trip back to MI was to attend the wedding of Amber Frost and Ben McClain. Amber is one of my sorority sisters and was a bridesmaid in our wedding. It was a beautiful wedding and really fun reception. A huge CONGRATS goes out to the new Mr. & Mrs. McClain. Mike and I were blessed to share in your special day.