NTTTCR: Getting to know you

Rachael07.07.07 · March 2009

1) How long have you been posting on the TTTC board? Since I got my diagnosis of PCOS-Jan 08.

2) If you have started seeing an RE, what prompted you to go? Switched insurances so I'm not sure who I am going to be going to now, but I went bc I was getting frustrated with my old ob/gyn

3) Where are you from, and have you ever met up with girls from the board that live in your area? born and raised in Chicago but am currently in WI for another 6 months or so (DH's job). I've met a few IRL through theknot, the Jknotties from July 07, and another I went to h.s with. I'd love to meet up with more if the opportunity came up though!

4) Do you share your IF struggles with friends and family or keep it to yourselves? I share, some more than others of course

5) What's the craziest TTC advice you have been given? To use Mucinex...um not going to help me ovulate kthanx

...and a few off topics for good measure...

6) What type of music do you listen to? I love rock, classic, heavy metal, hard rock...and I also love country

7) What are your favorite tv shows? Any CSI / L & O. Rescue Me (!!!), Without a Trace, Grey's, a bunch of HGTV shows

8) What kinds of things do your DH and you like to do together? Softball, go to concerts, drive each other crazy ,

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hey Katie! I'm glad you came out of lurking to post. How did your first trip to the RE go? Did you feel like you were able to come out of it with a plan? Many of my friends are getting pregnant with their second children, and it's bothering me a lot. I had a plan, and IF was not a part of it! Nobody has ever used the adoption line on me, though they probably will now that I jinxed myself. What kind of camping do you do? My parents were not very outdoorsy, so the first time I went camping was with my best friend and her family. They had a pop up camper and stayed at a camping resort. DH informs me that is NOT camping. His idea of camping is hiking about 10 miles to your spot and then setting up a tent. He cooks our meals with a portable stove, which someone said looked like a bunsen burner. I couldn't stop laughing after they said that. In my opinion, camping is camping whether you hike in or set up alongside the road. What kinds of places have you traveled to?

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hi Liturgical! You've been here as long as Krissy has. Again, I feel bad that you both have had to stick around for that long. I've been wondering what it takes to move from "newbie" to a "bronze" poster. I'm hoping it's about 500 posts. I'll move up shortly if that's the case! One of my friends told me that I should try the "reverse cowgirl" position. She got KU from it and thought it was the ultimate advice. I'll give almost anything a try, so we did...I'm still not PG. What kinds of projects are you working on around the house? DH and I had so much that we thought we wanted to do with ours. When it was all said and done, we only ended up redoing the bathroom. We have renters in it now, but I'd love to put tile in the bathroom and hardwood floors in the kitchen. Right now the ENTIRE house is carpeted. I have never been so annoyed. Worst decision EVER! Yay, you are another Lost fan! I'm sad that it will be coming to an end next year. I have enjoyed watching it with DH. We typically don't like the same programs. He's all about Bear Grylls and Les Stroud. I am all about Lauren Conrad and American Idol contestants. Polar freaking opposites-LOL!

flutterby918 · March 2009

Yay this is a great idea!!

1) How long have you been posting on the TTTC board? Most recently I started posting in late 2008 - but I have been lurking for over a year now

2) If you have started seeing an RE, what prompted you to go? It took me awhile to admit it in my heart that I needed one. And I still wasn't too "into it" when I started going, but the first visit was late July 08

3) Where are you from, and have you ever met up with girls from the board that live in your area? We currently live on the central coast of California. I haven't met anyone, but I would be willing to!

4) Do you share your IF struggles with friends and family or keep it to yourselves? My mom, dad, and older brother know. My younger brother has an idea, but doesn't really understand. My H's family does not know, other than what they may have deduced on their own. A couple of my closest friends know and I am trying to be more open about it because I believe that people need to be more informed and I DON"T need to feel ashamed.

5) What's the craziest TTC advice you have been given? Umm haven't really been given any crazy advice,but I have read some strange stuff on the internet, lol

...and a few off topics for good measure...

6) What type of music do you listen to? Pretty much anything other than death metal, lol

7) What are your favorite tv shows? House, Greys Anatomy, J&K+8 (although it's getting annoying)

8) What kinds of things do your DH and you like to do together? Shop, go to the beach, hike, just hang at home, go to movies, hang out w/friends

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hi Lisa! Man, there are too many of you that are here from the beginning. When did this board actually come about? I'll bet you're a bit frustrated that everyone you have met has moved on, but that makes me confident that your time is coming. I see that you're doing IVF8 with a donor. I wish you the best of luck with that. My memory is failing me, but when will you start that up? I hope to see your BFP!!! What part of New Jersey are you from? I just got back from Parsippany. We ate at some pretty cool restaurants there. One of them was Charlie Brown's Steakhouse, which looks to be a chain. Do you like that place? DH had lobster cakes, which I tried for the very first time. They were pretty darn good! And we had pineapple upside down cake for dessert which was to die for! I'm pretty broad as far as my music and television tastes go as well. I only mentioned the pop and Christian thing, but there's not too much I won't listen to. And when I actually sit in front of the tv for a bit, I'm usually able to find something interesting. I recently watched Wife Swap for the first time. It was very amusing!

mybobble · March 2009

1) How long have you been posting on the TTTC board? about 2 months after the board started

2) If you have started seeing an RE, what prompted you to go? after ttc for 10 months I was referred for tests, been working w/ the re ever since

3) Where are you from, and have you ever met up with girls from the board that live in your area? NH, never met w/ anyone, my local used to have lots of gtg's but they have all moved to a "private" board and don't post on the board any more

4) Do you share your IF struggles with friends and family or keep it to yourselves? my mom and sisters know, dh's family knows to a point, I have shared some stuff w/ certain friends

5) What's the craziest TTC advice you have been given? go out and have an affair, that's how I got pg, she was DEAD serious!

...and a few off topics for good measure...

6) What type of music do you listen to? almost anything except for rap, hip hop and country

7) What are your favorite tv shows? Survivor, Grey's, Private Practice, Hell's Kitchen

8) What kinds of things do your DH and you like to do together? due to his schedule it's hard to really spend time w/ him but when he's home it's nice to be w/ him whether it's making dinner or snuggling on the couch

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Lawren, that is so awesome that you are named after your grandfather/dad! I can imagine that you get a lot of misspellings, but I feel your pain. My maiden name was Palazzolo, and NOBODY can get that right. I thought I would have an easier time with Crane, but I get asked if it's with a "C" or a "K" or if it's Crain. Then there's the whole Jen/Jenn issue. I sign things as Jen, but my mom and other relatives tend to write out Jenn. I guess it's all the same at the end of the day, but it puzzles me. They've watched me spell it JEN for years now! I'm not too concerned about my MIL at this point. She was a real holy roller when I first met her, but she's simmered down quite a bit. I actually think she's become a lot more normal, and I hope that never changes. I'm looking forward to seeing you on here as well!

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hello again other Jen!

What time is your HSG scheduled for? I hope you'll see this before you leave, but good luck!!! DH and I were actually in Disney in December. It was a bit colder than I would have expected, but it was a lot of fun. We did all of the Christmas things and had a really nice time. I cannot wait to go back when we have children, though I'm thinking I would really like to plan a girls trip there next year. DH and I don't have any vacations coming up, but we are moving across the country so that will be a new adventure in itself. I've never been to Spokane, and now I'm about to become a resident. I'd really like to go to Vegas, so we'll be looking into that pending the whole TTC thing. I'm one of those people that backs off from planning vacations "just in case."

becca2325 · March 2009

1) How long have you been posting on the TTTC board? Almost a year. We've been TTTC longer, but I didn't come here then.

2) If you have started seeing an RE, what prompted you to go? 1 year of no success

3) Where are you from, and have you ever met up with girls from the board that live in your area? Live in Chicago, originally from Minneapolis. Yes we had a national TTTC get together in Chicago in October. It was a blast!

4) Do you share your IF struggles with friends and family or keep it to yourselves? My family don't know, we told DH's family once we started IVF, only a few close friends know.

5) What's the craziest TTC advice you have been given? It's easy- just have sex 14 days after your period and you'll get pregnant. (It worked for her that way...)

6) What type of music do you listen to? Love Keane, Muse, and pretty much anything that's not cheesy.

7) What are your favorite tv shows? Anything on Food Network, American Idol, ANTM, J&K+8

8) What kinds of things do your DH and you like to do together? Dinner, watch movies at home with our puggies, go to shows/concerts, have freinds over and play Rock Band/Guitar Hero

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hey Smiling! You are another person with an absolutely gorgeous dog!!! (Can you tell I'm a dog lover???) I'm thinking about starting a blog for my IF journey. I really don't know why I haven't. I've had a Live Journal account for over 6 years now, and I talk about it a little bit in there but have found that my friends just don't get it. I know 2 groups of people - those that are not even close to thinking about having children and those that already have children but didn't deal with IF. I don't know if it makes them uncomfortable or what, but nobody really posts to those entries. I felt like I was talking to the wall, which was why I am so grateful for this board. Nobody feels your pain better than somebody that has been there. Do you have any favorite Christian artists? I love Sanctus Real and The Afters. Oh, who am I kidding? If their music has a beat, I really love a lot of the artists. If the music makes me feel something, then I'm all about it. How do you like North Carolina, and what part are you from? DH has a cousin that lives in Leicester, and I love going down to visit her. There is this great place in Asheville called the Mellow Mushroom. I'm pretty sure they have the best pizza ever. Have you been there before? If not, I highly recommend it! They are all over the place down there!

HazelEyes730 · March 2009

1) How long have you been posting on the TTTC board? I've lurked a lot posted here and there. Trying to be more regular

2) If you have started seeing an RE, what prompted you to go? I had endo found in my colon so I started seeing the RE then.

3) Where are you from, and have you ever met up with girls from the board that live in your area?Michigan and no

4) Do you share your IF struggles with friends and family or keep it to yourselves? I share it with family and close friends. Just not all the details and dates of this IVF. and not on facebook either. I don't mind people knowing. I love the support and it stops people from asking the "so when are you having kids?" That got annoying.

5) What's the craziest TTC advice you have been given? Not really sure but I did have a "friend" right after I told her my tubes were going to be removed and we were doing IVF that I should try relaxing. I went off on her. It was not a pretty moment but she deserved it. This is one person I wish did not know anything oh well.

...and a few off topics for good measure...

6) What type of music do you listen to? Pretty much anything that sounds good to me don't have a certain type.

7) What are your favorite tv shows?Bones, ER, How I met you mother, Big Bang theory.

8) What kinds of things do your DH and you like to do together?We love sports so we watch a lot of that. DH lucked out there. Take walks, play games, hang out with friends, movies. Can't wait for nice weahter so we can start the garden!

Rachael07.07.07 · March 2009

hmmm, I'm beginning to feel left out, no reply from Jen to me! lol.

Goldengirl16 · March 2009

1) How long have you been posting on the TTTC board?

Since July when we got DH dx.

2) If you have started seeing an RE, what prompted you to go?

No sperm.

3) Where are you from, and have you ever met up with girls from the board that live in your area?

Midwest and no.

4) Do you share your IF struggles with friends and family or keep it to yourselves?

I share with my parents our diagnosis, but nobody else knows. Friends and family just know we're having troubles.

5) What's the craziest TTC advice you have been given?

Just relax!

...and a few off topics for good measure...

6) What type of music do you listen to?

Country usually.

7) What are your favorite tv shows?

Bachelor, Grey's, Desperate Housewives

8) What kinds of things do your DH and you like to do together?

Watch movies, go to dinner, cabin time!

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Elizabeth, you are the one person that I can remember from both of my times on this board. I don't think there is a single person here who is not rooting for your BFP! I vaguely remember BOTB. I may have posted there before we were termed TTTC. But blah@that board. If my memory serves me, I think it was enough to make anyone insane. You made a really far move across the country too! What brought that about? Can I tell you something? I love that you have been very open about your journey. I know I haven't been around for all of it, but I feel like I have gotten to know you on here. I always appreciate your advice and input and, as I said, I cannot wait for you to get your BFP! That whole buying furniture thing is a definite new one to add to the list. Was she speaking of regular furniture or baby furniture? How on earth did you react to that? I am not a huge wine drinker, but I do like this one dessert wine. It's called Brachetto d'Acqui, and it is fantastic! I wish we weren't going to be separated by mountains. I would love to meet up after I move out to Washington. I started posting a bit on the Seattle Babies board, and they actually do a TTC/PG check in. I haven't found anyone from Spokane yet, but we'll see what happens.

Gina070605 · March 2009

jlcrane78:
Hi Gina! I am sorry to hear about your m/c. I can only imagine how difficult that must have been, and my heart goes out to you and your husband. I'm glad that you are able to share things with others in spite of your pain. I'm also glad you came out of lurking. I think I would be looking for a new ob/gyn if mine ever said something like that to me. I've tried all of the stupid unhelpful advice. I've had drunk sex, I've had sober sex, I've had vacation sex, I've tried positions that have gotten OTHER girls pregnant. I've listened to it all, and nothing has helped. I'm unemployed right now, and you would think that I would be about as stress-free as they come since I don't have to put up with horrid bosses and/or rude co-workers. The whole relax thing is one of my least favorite comments. I am relaxed DAMMIT! If relaxation was all it took, then I would have had my BFP 6 months ago. But whatever. Anyway, where do you go hiking? DH and I hiked a little bit of the Kittatinny Ridge this past weekend. We didn't get to go very far because we didn't have our normal boots and hiking gear, but the parts of it I saw were pretty!

We live about 5 minutes from Waywayanda state park. It's pretty much out back yard, lol. So we always bring out big pup for long walks/hikes in the woods and on the trails.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hi Jamie! What is your beautiful furbaby's name? What a sweet face! Did your ob/gyn put you on Clomid or anything, or did they just send you to the RE after your diagnosis? You're in luck that you live in New Jersey. It looks like there are plenty of women on here to meet up with. I'd really love to help coordinate more get togethers. Maybe a few of us can work on getting a list around and try to match up people in the same area. I recently met a new friend from this board, and I can't tell you how awesome it felt to have a common bond with someone in real life. I'm excited to see there is another Hills fan on this board. I'm horribly addicted and absolutely love Lauren Conrad. The new season premieres on April 6! I'm sad that this is going to be the last season. I feel like I am losing all of my favorite tv shows lately. Who knows? Maybe by the time my shows are all off the air I will be PG and gearing up for years of children's programming-LOL! There will be lots of Disney movies being watched at our house!

mimi525 · March 2009

You have an excellent point about DH not riding a bike! I think we will skip it this summer. I have never done the ghost hunting in real life, but I have seen an apparition of a woman (sad) and have experienced many paranormal things Surprise . Yes, can you believe I got advice to use a turkey baster from an old friend! I laughed!

Good luck!

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hello Luvs! Every time I see your siggy, I think of how much you remind me of this girl I went to school with. You look so similar! Anyway, I LOVE 80's music too. You may or may not appreciate this story, but last night Hall and Oates was on Dancing with the Stars. My best friend texted me to let me know, and my mom was yelling at me to come watch. I grew up absolutely crushing on Darryl Hall. (I found out yesterday that he's going to be 63 years old this year, and suddenly I feel kind of gross about that!) I ended up watching them perform and was excited that they did "Maneater" and not some new garbage. What 80's bands are you into? There are a lot of Lost fans on this board. I've never seen any posts after the episodes air, but maybe I just missed them. I love to discuss the show with other fans. I see that you started your first cycle with Femara recently. I am sorry to see that you m/c the baby, but I wanted to share yet another one of my inspirational stories. I have a friend that went on Femara and m/c the first time around too. 2 cycles later, she became PG again and gave birth to a beautiful daughter back in October. I'm confident your BFP is just around the corner, so hang in there! I'm rooting for you all the way!

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hi May! I am glad that your doctor was able to detect and remove the endo. It seems like you are pretty confident you will be able to get PG now, and that's exciting! When will you be moving forward with the next step? I'm glad you are educating others about IF. I still feel like it's a taboo topic, and it will be nice to see the day when it's not viewed in that way. Have you ever snapped at your mom? I had a few moments where my mom said things that really bothered me, and I let loose. I love her dearly, but being able to get things off of my chest definitely helped her to see things from my side. It's great that some people are able to become PG on their own after being told they couldn't, but I definitely think we need to be proactive about things in the meantime. The only time I will resign myself to letting nature take its course is when DH and I have exhausted all of the options that we have been discussing. I'm just not a fan of sitting and waiting. Patience is not my finest virtue!

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hello to another Jennifer aka MrsEck! So your ob/gyn didn't do b/w on you? I don't feel so bad now. Mine sent me for an HSG and hubby for an SA, and both were decent. Hubster's SA was just shy of normal but supposedly no cause for concern. I was really frustrated because I didn't even understand the value of getting b/w done until this past summer. I feel kind of robbed because I have spent all this time being sad and childless, and there may just be an easy fix. It's my own fault for not doing my own research, but I naively thought that my doctor would steer me in the right direction. I have made a vow to educate my daughters the way I wish that I was educated. I hope to save them a lot of potential heartache, especially if this whole IF thing is passed down. So hanging out with babies is a TTTC remedy, eh? LOL! That figures that the advice came from a guy. Is his theory more hormones=more sex=greater chance for PG??? I have always wanted to do a wine tasting. There was a winery out in Kalamazoo that DH and I had intended on going to but never made it out there. We'll have to make that a priority at some point. I would love to try wines until I found one that I liked. I like DMB too! I had a friend that saved up money and went to every show on his tour once. Can you imagine how much fun that would be?

MrsEck · March 2009

Can I just say- I think it is awesome that you are taking the time to respond to every single poster. You rock.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hey Lulu! I was very glad to post this! It's been a fun morning for me getting to know everybody. I am grateful for all of the responses. So you went for 10 months without AF!?! Wow! What BCP's were you on, if you don't mind me asking? I was on Alesse, and I have always believed that it screwed me up. I was never regular like I should have been, and I kick myself for not asking more questions. The irregularity should have thrown up a red flag, but I was very clueless back then. That is some interesting advice to drink cream straight. Does that even taste good? Not that you've tried it, but I'm just trying to think of that in my head. I love that you love gushy love songs!!! I sing my heart out to Chicago and Richard Marx, just to name a few. I'm a sucker for a good love song, no matter how ultimately cheesy it is. I like watching the Food Network too. I love to eat, and I've even attempted a few of the recipes on there. Some have been successful, while others will definitely need more work. It's kind of a bummer, though, because it is often expensive to go out and buy all the ingredients that you need. DH wants to go to culinary school if we ever win the lotto. Highly unlikely, but I love the idea of learning how to make fabulous dishes. The most unfortunate part would be all the weight I would gain-LOL!

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hi Katie! How do you like charting on Ovusoft? I use FF, but I am curious to hear how other charting software works. That's horrible that your ob/gyn wouldn't diagnose you. It's good that you are being proactive, and I hope that your RE is being much more helpful! It's about time we get you up and out of here. I remember seeing a few from the Cinci crew, so that's good that you have been able to meet up with others. You know, I think it's good that you haven't said anything to the people you work with. I feel like that was one of my biggest mistakes at my former job. I was telling a PP that one of the women I worked with attempted to relate to me, and it was actually more offensive than anything. I suppose it's one thing if you are good friends with some of the people that you work with, but I also know that work can be a gossipy place. Sometimes you can tell one person something and the entire office will know it by the end of the day. It's not worth the extra added grief. Who are your favorite country artists? I don't listen to country that often, but I do like Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood, and Rascal Flatts.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hi Jackie! It looks like you are dealing with some pretty challenging MFI. How does your husband handle that? Does he feel bad that the problem is on his end? I'm asking because this is something that has come up in conversation with my husband before. He's what I like to call a guy's guy, and he once told me that he wouldn't get a vasectomy when we were done having children because it would take away his manhood. I'm not saying that to make him sound like a jerk or anything, but I think it's a common sentiment among men. My own IF is likely due to me, but somehow DH feels like seeking treatment is admitting defeat to the fact that he can't get me pregnant. It's a definite pride thing. Was your husband always on board for in-vitro, or did you get some resistance from him? As for the girls you have met on here, I think it's time you joined them on the other side. I think I saw that your IVF is not until October or so, but keep us posted so that we can send lots of thoughts and prayers your way! I'm so glad I asked the craziest TTC advice question because it has provided me with lots of amusement today! The camping theory is another new one. If that was all it took, I'd be octomom right now! Definitely kidding about that, but I've been camping more times than I can count and still no BFP. Did you ever see the show MythBusters? I'm going to come up with a new show called TTTCBusters! For what it's worth, I don't think you and your DH are boring at all. I think it's nice to take the time to sit and talk and share things together. I would love that, but DH is in field service so there are a lot of nights spent apart.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hi Rachael! You're a 7/7/07-er! That was a very popular wedding date. One of my friends thought about getting married on that day but decided that it was too long to wait and got married in 2005 instead. I see that you are doing a Clomid cycle right now, so good luck to you! I know what it's like to be frustrated with your ob/gyn. I'm hoping to find someone really good in the Spokane area. I was given a recommendation for an RE from someone on this board, but I'm still trying to find an actual ob. If I had my way, I'd only see the best of the best from here on out. I'm 30 years old and feel like I'm rapidly losing time. I do not want to doctor jump. That's really cool that you have met so many people from the board. I'm nervous about making a move across the country, but I am hoping I can meet people from Spokane somewhere on The Nest. It may not be here on this board, but hopefully somewhere. What does your DH do that brought you to Wisconsin? Are you anxious to get back to Chicago? I smiled when you wrote that you and DH drive each other crazy. That is so my husband and I! We are polar opposites, which works great for some things but not so great for others. I think we do our fair share of driving each other crazy too!

may2806 · March 2009

Jen, that's so sweet of you to respond to everyone! I do feel that having the surgery was absolutely crucial for me - but it doesn't necessarily mean I can get pg now because of the damage the endo may have already done to my eggs After the surgery I was on an unmonitored break cycle, and pretty sure from temping that I ovulated, but BFN. Now I'm into my first monitored cycle post-lap so we'll see... I may be headed to IVF sooner than later, though.?

I don't usually snap at my mom because those stories sometimes do give me hope... but only to a point. My MIL, on the other hand, keeps saying she knows it will happen...and I'm like, um, no you don't! I don't actually say that cause she means well, but ugh!?

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hi Flutterby! What's wrong with death metal? Just kidding! I'm not much of a fan either. I'm so proud of you for believing that you don't need to be ashamed about IF. The fact that you are informing others is going to really help future TTTC-ers. Despite the fact that I can feel horribly alone at times, I have noticed an overwhelming amount of people that have IF issues of some sort. It's almost scary in a way, because I wonder what is causing it to be so common? Is it just that we are more open about it now, or is there a bigger problem? Was it weird for you to talk about your IF struggles with your older brother? I have a younger brother, and he knows that I want a child but I don't really talk with him too much about things relating to IF. He's seen my horrible jealousy bug come out on more than one occasion and blows me off by telling me that my time will come and to quit whining. He's nowhere near thinking about having children, which probably adds to his lack of sensitivity. Tell me about some of the strange stuff you have read on the internet. I try to stay away from other sites because I get too much of an information overload and start making myself neurotic. I like the tv show House too, but I haven't watched it in forever. Am I missing out on anything good?

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hey Bobble! Gosh, you've been here for awhile too, huh? I see that you posted "when your DH is home"...what does he do? Mine just took a job as a field service engineer, which means he'll have to spend a lot of time away from home. It definitely concerns me, especially since TTC has been challenging enough for us. He assures me that we'll make it work, but it sucks when work gets in the way of having a family. I have to say that Gordon Ramsay scares me. I used to think he was no worse than Simon Cowell, but I think I was way off. I don't watch the show, but does Gordon ever say anything nice to the people on Hell's Kitchen? The person that told you to go out and have an affair caused my jaw to literally drop. I was never serious about this, but I used to tell my husband we should get divorced and then have him knock me up. It seemed like everyone I knew was unmarried and PG. I joked that we were going about things the wrong way. I'm actually going to send you a quick PM to finish the rest of this conversation...

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hey Becca! I can't believe I missed out on the national get together. Where did you meet in Chicago? I would have loved to have gone!!! So you are still unexplained after everything, huh? That sucks! I'll bet you are so frustrated. I'm currently classified as unexplained, but I am praying that will change after I get the b/w done. All I want is an answer because then I will feel like I'm that much closer to making my dream a reality. I see that you are gearing up for your next IVF. Are you a little less nervous now that you know what to expect or just as nervous as before? I love that you have friends over to play Rock Band/Guitar Hero. DH and I have some really good friends in Kalamazoo that are always throwing house parties where Rock Band is involved. The only thing I can stumble through is playing bass on easy. I refuse to sing in front of others, and I suck at the drums. But I think that game is a ton of fun, and I'll have to get it for our new place so that we can have people over to play too. How many puggies do you have? My friend has 2 of them and I laugh whenever she talks about them snorting and snoring and everything in between. They seem like fun dogs!

flutterby918 · March 2009

jlcrane78:
Hi Flutterby! What's wrong with death metal? Just kidding! I'm not much of a fan either. I'm so proud of you for believing that you don't need to be ashamed about IF. The fact that you are informing others is going to really help future TTTC-ers. Despite the fact that I can feel horribly alone at times, I have noticed an overwhelming amount of people that have IF issues of some sort. It's almost scary in a way, because I wonder what is causing it to be so common? Is it just that we are more open about it now, or is there a bigger problem? Was it weird for you to talk about your IF struggles with your older brother? I have a younger brother, and he knows that I want a child but I don't really talk with him too much about things relating to IF. He's seen my horrible jealousy bug come out on more than one occasion and blows me off by telling me that my time will come and to quit whining. He's nowhere near thinking about having children, which probably adds to his lack of sensitivity. Tell me about some of the strange stuff you have read on the internet. I try to stay away from other sites because I get too much of an information overload and start making myself neurotic. I like the tv show House too, but I haven't watched it in forever. Am I missing out on anything good?

I totally agree w/you on wondering what we are doing societally that is making IF so common. Did we just not realize it before because it seemed as if people WERE having lots of babies (back when BCP's weren't readily available and families were large) and then it cut back but it was BECAUSE they didn't "want" as many children and/or the availability of BCP's? Or is it something in our environment? Its hard not to wonder, I mean - my mom got pregnant 4 times (one miscarriage) pretty easily, my grandmothers both had children, my H's mom has three healthy (out of 4 pregnancies) children. Its worrisome to say the least.

It was not strange to tell my older brother about it at first. Emotional, sure, but my family is pretty open. He understands periods and cramps and all that, he is married so he deals with his wife (lol at the way I worded that), but he is not as aware about IF. He is sympathetic, but there is a somewhat double-edged sword effect too. He is a pastor and I find it diffifult (now that we are doing IVF) to talk to him about it because of how I think he will react and what I assume he thinks, based off of other conversations that we have had. We have discussed it, but it was not the best conversation. Sigh

Otherwise, as I said I am trying to be more open and trite as it may sound, the necklace that I bought from Tarahville is helping me. People comment on how pretty it is and ask about it and I am willing to tell them. I got one for my mom too and she is using it to explain to women that she works with about our issues too. its great because it opens doors and it gives me a lot of comfort. I wear it bascially everyday. :-)

Wow, this is getting long - BTW thank you for doing this!! I see that it is consuming your whole day, but it means a lot to me that you are taking this first step! And as for House --- I love it, but it's irritating me because there keeps being breaks between new episodes. Otherwise it's still good. Took me a bit to get used to the "new" grouop, but I still enjoy it. You should look back into it. It's on Monday nights at 8 I believe.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hi Hazel! Woohoo for a Red Wings fan! I LOVE my hockey, and I think it helps that we have such an awesome team. Have you ever met any of them? I used to have a huge crush on Vladimir Konstantinov, and I was devastated when he was in that limousine accident. It really bothers me that his career ended as the result of him trying to do the responsible thing. What part of Michigan are you from? It looks as if you had some very disappointing HSG results, and I'm sorry that the doctors had to remove your tubes. I am hoping that your IVF is just what you need to get the job done. Where are you having it done at? I'm not sure where my cousin went for hers, but she is due next month. I know there are some really good places here in Michigan. My friend is going to one in Flint, and it sounds like they gave her pretty good odds. I think that IF shows you who your true friends are, and it's kind of sad when they aren't nearly as supportive as you need them to be. I'm sorry that your "friend" made such an insensitive comment. I would have went off on her as well. Hopefully everyone else is giving you lots of love and support! What are you going to grow in your garden this year? I don't have a green thumb by any means, but I would love to try and grow some cherry tomatoes and squash when we get a place of our own again.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Rachael07.07.07:
hmmm, I'm beginning to feel left out, no reply from Jen to me! lol.

You silly girl! I have been working on this post all day. I never realized it would blow up the way it did. I'm excited though because it's been awesome learning about you all...did you see that I replied back??? Forgive me???

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Hey Golden! I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis. That must have rocked you and your DH. How did he feel about going the donor route, if you don't mind me asking? My husband has made it very clear he's not willing to examine that option. He's not willing to examine IVF either, so we are really quite limited in what we will be able to do. I'm trying to remain positive. In our case, the problem appears to be on my end. Are your parents pretty supportive of everything? What did you think about the way this season's Bachelor turned out? I didn't watch it until the last episode, so I missed out on getting to know the contestants. It seemed so awkward watching him cry so much about letting Molly go. I never dreamed he would turn around and break things off with Melissa so quickly. The last time I really watched the show was when Andrew Firestone was the Bachelor. He was a hottie, though I heard he's a real douche. Sorry, that's one of my favorite derogatory words to use-LOL! Cabin time sounds like a lot of fun. My aunt and uncle have one and invite us out on occasion. I would love to have a cabin of our own someday.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

Gina070605:
We live about 5 minutes from Waywayanda state park. It's pretty much out back yard, lol. So we always bring out big pup for long walks/hikes in the woods and on the trails.

Our black lab LOVES to go hiking with us. Now that he's full grown we are getting him his first backpack this year. We can't wait to take him on the trails again once we move. It's going to be awesome!

flutterby918 · March 2009

Jen, I forgot to mention - I am from MI originally and we recently moved cross country just like you will be. Good luck, it's stressful, but exciting too. I have been to Spokane once for business and I loved it. It was in Sept, and it actually reminded me of "home" when I was there.

AND! Go Wings!! My H and I are huge fans, that is one of the things he misses the most about living out here, the spotty Wing coverage that we have.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

mimi525:
You have an excellent point about DH not riding a bike! I think we will skip it this summer. I have never done the ghost hunting in real life, but I have seen an apparition of a woman (sad) and have experienced many paranormal things . Yes, can you believe I got advice to use a turkey baster from an old friend! I laughed!

Good luck!

Don't write off the bike riding just yet! There are many types of saddles that will allow DH's troops enough air and space to breathe. Just make sure he gets out of his bike pants right away when he gets home. I don't think little hour long rides here or there will hurt. My DH does these long trips that last 2+ hours, and that's when I start to get concerned. He's going to stick with the mountain biking for now because he says that he doesn't actually sit in the saddle for those rides. He tried to take up running so that he could get some exercise outside of his road bike, but it's thrashing his knees.

MrsRyan61804 · March 2009

1) How long have you been posting on the TTTC board? Sadly since it started. I was on BOTB before this.

2) If you have started seeing an RE, what prompted you to go? I knew I had PCOS and after a few months of TTC my ob/gyn referred us to an RE.

3) Where are you from, and have you ever met up with girls from the board that live in your area? NJ, no the GTG's have always been at times when I am unable to go.

4) Do you share your IF struggles with friends and family or keep it to yourselves? Yes, we have been very open from the begining

5) What's the craziest TTC advice you have been given? Oh, we've heard them all...."just relax", "go on vacation", "get drunk", "stop thinking about it"! But the best was probably from a co-worker she said, get divorced, quit your job apply for welfare, and buy a trailer. You'll be knocked up in no time!

...and a few off topics for good measure...

6) What type of music do you listen to? i'm not picky everything but classical, and heavy metal

7) What are your favorite tv shows? LOST, Greys anatomy, Private Practice, Brothers & Sisters

8) What kinds of things do your DH and you like to do together? Travel, although IF has put a damper on that. Go to dinner, shopping, hiking with the dog, sitting on the couch watching tv together.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

MrsEck:
Can I just say- I think it is awesome that you are taking the time to respond to every single poster. You rock.

I just don't want anyone to walk away from here feeling like nobody will listen or that nobody cares. I hope that everyone that has taken the time to post to this message will feel free to page me when they need someone to talk to. If I don't have the answers, I will help you find someone that does.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

may2806:
Jen, that's so sweet of you to respond to everyone! I do feel that having the surgery was absolutely crucial for me - but it doesn't necessarily mean I can get pg now because of the damage the endo may have already done to my eggs After the surgery I was on an unmonitored break cycle, and pretty sure from temping that I ovulated, but BFN. Now I'm into my first monitored cycle post-lap so we'll see... I may be headed to IVF sooner than later, though.
I don't usually snap at my mom because those stories sometimes do give me hope... but only to a point. My MIL, on the other hand, keeps saying she knows it will happen...and I'm like, um, no you don't! I don't actually say that cause she means well, but ugh!

Well, I am sending positive thoughts your way that many of your eggs are still salvageable and you will get your BFP. It's definitely a good sign that your temping seemed to indicate ovulation. Please keep us all posted on how things go for you with this cycle.

I know what you mean about the stories giving you hope at times. I recently watched the movie Facing the Giants, and it gave me a whole wealth of inspiration. Unfortunately, it was just a movie. Most movies have happy endings. This is my real life, and I feel like I need to do something about the IF.

jlcrane78 · March 2009

flutterby918:
I totally agree w/you on wondering what we are doing societally that is making IF so common. Did we just not realize it before because it seemed as if people WERE having lots of babies (back when BCP's weren't readily available and families were large) and then it cut back but it was BECAUSE they didn't "want" as many children and/or the availability of BCP's? Or is it something in our environment? Its hard not to wonder, I mean - my mom got pregnant 4 times (one miscarriage) pretty easily, my grandmothers both had children, my H's mom has three healthy (out of 4 pregnancies) children. Its worrisome to say the least.
It was not strange to tell my older brother about it at first. Emotional, sure, but my family is pretty open. He understands periods and cramps and all that, he is married so he deals with his wife (lol at the way I worded that), but he is not as aware about IF. He is sympathetic, but there is a somewhat double-edged sword effect too. He is a pastor and I find it diffifult (now that we are doing IVF) to talk to him about it because of how I think he will react and what I assume he thinks, based off of other conversations that we have had. We have discussed it, but it was not the best conversation. Sigh

Otherwise, as I said I am trying to be more open and trite as it may sound, the necklace that I bought from Tarahville is helping me. People comment on how pretty it is and ask about it and I am willing to tell them. I got one for my mom too and she is using it to explain to women that she works with about our issues too. its great because it opens doors and it gives me a lot of comfort. I wear it bascially everyday. :-)

Wow, this is getting long - BTW thank you for doing this!! I see that it is consuming your whole day, but it means a lot to me that you are taking this first step! And as for House --- I love it, but it's irritating me because there keeps being breaks between new episodes. Otherwise it's still good. Took me a bit to get used to the "new" grouop, but I still enjoy it. You should look back into it. It's on Monday nights at 8 I believe.

Yay! You write novels like me! That's awesome-LOL! No need to thank me for this post. It's been a blast sitting here responding back to everybody. I never thought I would get so many responses. Before I forget, I did scroll down and see your other post. I may be asking you questions about making such a big move in the near future. I'm nervous but very excited. I've been hearing many great things about Spokane. It will be nice to have a fresh start.

I know what you mean about the differences in generations. My grandparents on my dad's side had 6 children, and my grandparents on my mom's side had 5. My mom had absolutely no difficulty conceiving my brother or I. The same holds true for DH's side of the family. Both sets of grandparents had many children. DH's mom had him and his sister with no problems. Ultimately, you would think we'd be good to go, but that's not the case.

I can definitely see how having a pastor for a brother would open up a lot of challenges in discussing IVF. When DH and I approached the IVF conversation last week, he immediately sent out an email to our church and I cringed. They are pretty liberal as far as churches go, but I have yet to find a pastor that is onboard with the procedure. I respect what the church has to say, but I feel this is a personal decision that should be made by DH and I and not some outsider. I'd like the option to agree to disagree if you know what I mean.

I think it's cool that both you and your mom wear the necklaces. My mom is still very naive about a lot of things, but she's like a sponge when I start educating her about different stuff. She's learning a lot, and I think it's a step in the right direction when we can share our stories and help others become more knowledgeable about our struggles. I'll say it until I'm blue in the face that my daughter(s) will not go through all the pain and heartache I have because of a lack of information or attitudes of indifference from people. And hopefully the terminology of an infertile will never even have to cross their minds. That is my ultimate wish for them.

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