tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90093251021569714962024-03-12T21:30:55.528-07:00Happily Andrews AfterTracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-56624762208389074412020-04-13T19:31:00.002-07:002020-04-13T19:45:11.918-07:00Our Life with BB has lived with us for a little over a year.<br />
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Ya'll. It's been a roller coaster.<br />
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There is nothing about life that looks the way it did before.<br />
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There is nothing about life that feels the way it did before.<br />
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We are suddenly parents to a teen. Teenagers are hard. Autism is hard. Kabuki syndrome is hard. Mood disorders are hard.<br />
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But we are making it.<br />
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We have finally settled down as far as appointments go. And thankfully, my family is able to help get her to some appointments, like speech, when our jobs keep us from being able to go.<br />
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We still struggle with some of her behaviors and knowing the best way to handle them. We have seen an improvement but we still have a long way to go as a family. We, as parents, have a lot to learn. And in turn, we have a lot to teach B.<br />
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We are still learning about services that may be available for her. And then we have to decide what services may benefit her the most, that will fit in the time that we have. She can only handle so much and we can only handle so much. There comes a time where we all become physically and emotionally drained.<br />
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I would appreciate any tips for services/activities/camps in the comments, or any books that you would suggest to read.<br />
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Some things I have found helpful, and I hope to share more in a blog post:<br />
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1-Family and Friends- Just being able to call/text/go on a walk/drink a cup of coffee with. They have always been able to listen..<br />
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2- Spending just a few moments alone- taking a walk around the block, sitting on the back porch at night with a cup of coffee, or getting out of the house to run an errand. Just feeling like I have even just a few moments to myself makes a huge difference in my mood and attitude.<br />
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3- Self care- when I choose to take care of myself--eating good foods, drinking more water, getting fresh air, taking a walk, or doing some stretching, I feel better. When I feel better, I am a better parent.<br />
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4-Prayer and just sitting in silence- It doesn't have to be a long time. but sometimes turning all the noise off and just siting. It can be in my car on the way home from work. Sometimes its while I am doing dishes. I also pray. A lot. I can pray while I doing just about anything else. I can not emphasize this enough-- I would not have made it through without it. At all.<br />
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What are your coping mechanisms? I would love to hear them. Please leave them in the comments below.<br />
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My hope for this is blog, and connected instagram, is that it will encourage someone who may be going through these same situations. Please feel free to leave comments below and see my instagram @tracyrandrews<br />
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I look forward to hearing from you and sharing with you!<br />
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~ TracyTracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-89568349508054636242019-09-04T18:01:00.000-07:002019-09-04T18:01:38.323-07:00B has been here with us about 6 months now.<br />
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Ya'll. Just in case you didn't know.<br />
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Parenting is hard.<br />
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I know this is not a revelation to most of you. But we didn't ease into it. There wasn't nine months of expectation and dreams of what it would be like to hold a newborn in our arms. We did not have to do the diaper changes, or nights without sleep. It's hard in a different way. When you are parenting a child with special needs, there is a list of things you never thought you would have to think about. Some nights I lay and stare at the ceiling and think of all the things that were challenges that day, and all the successes. I think of the list of things that needs to be done tomorrow, and try to make mental lists of things to not forget. I am barely keeping all the appointments straight, and I am watching my leave balance at work decline steadily. It makes my desire to be able to stay at home even stronger. Just to be able to manage all the things that need to be done. One day I know I will be able to.<br />
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In a way, it seems that B has always been here. And in many ways she always has been. She has always been included in family events, and she has always been included as a grandchild, and I've always called her, "my kid." We are excited to make plans for the upcoming fall and holiday season, future vacations, and just seeing the progress made in the next few months.<br />
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Parenting IS hard. But it is so WORTH it.Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-46286464225074804632019-06-19T19:40:00.000-07:002019-09-04T17:21:23.500-07:00Full hearts, tired bodiesAbout twelve years ago, I received a call that would change my life, and I didn't even know it. Twelve years ago, a little brown haired girl walked up the sidewalk, and into my house, and honestly into my heart.<br />
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For the next 7 months, there were a lot of days that I didn't know if I was coming or going. We organized schedules of therapies, home visits, family visitations, and medical appointments. We actually became pros in a very short amount of time. We kept notes of every day activities and notes of medical appointments. We went to meetings at the school, we went to foster care meetings, and staffings. </div>
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Some days ended in joy, some in tears, but almost all ended with exhaustion. Bedtime for her was 8pm, and I think most days, I was dead asleep by 8:30pm. I was exhausted. </div>
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At the end of the seven months, two days after Christmas, I packed all the toys, clothes, shoes, and recently bought Christmas presents into my 2005 Grand Am and took that little brown haired girl to her new home. I walked her in, unloaded the car and sat on the floor with her and told her how wonderful things were going to be in her new home. And then, at the end of our time together, I walked down the sidewalk, as she cried and asked me to come back, with my head down, and barely holding it together. I got in my car, drove to an empty parking lot. I turned off my phone and I just sat in the car and cried. Sobbed. I literally felt that my heart was being ripped out of my body. I had never had my heart break like that. </div>
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The blessing for me and my family, is that this child didn't leave us completely. We have been gratefully involved in her life since the day that she walked into ours. Some seasons more than others, but always there. </div>
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About 90 days ago, life changed again. This not-so-little-girl has moved back into my home. And its very possible, this time it will be permanent. </div>
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We are walking a different path than we ever imagined, but we are so grateful that B is here. She's an amazing child. She has overcome so much and she just keeps going. </div>
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I can't wait to share more, but for now, our hearts are full, but our bodies are tired. In the most wonderful way. </div>
Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-10080273125283883762019-05-10T20:09:00.000-07:002019-05-10T20:09:06.111-07:00Happy Mother's DayHappy Mother's Day to all the moms out there.<br />
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I don't just mean the biological or adoptive mothers. I'm talking about ALL the moms.<br />
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Maybe you're a foster mother, or a step- mother. Maybe you're a spiritual mother, or someone who is in a mentoring roll to others.<br />
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You are all mothers. Its not just about biology. It's about the heart.<br />
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I hope you all have a wonderful day. Find the precious moments that you can to cherish.<br />
<br />Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-623732217435163532019-04-25T13:58:00.003-07:002019-04-25T14:00:06.270-07:00What Infertility Means .... to me...<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This week is National Infertility Awareness week. I thought I might take a moment and just express what infertility feels like to me. While at times I do feel sorry for myself, this isn't a pity post. Just an awareness one, and one that comes from my heart. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I truly believe that God makes families in many different ways. It can be biologically, fostering, adoption or maybe He choses that your family is just to be the people around you. Although I know that its sounds cliche, but I believe that God's plans for me are better than what I have for myself. I do not know if I will ever have a biological child. I hope too. Very much so. But, I also know if in my life, it is only ever my husband, dogs and I, that I can be happy with that as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">However, there are days where the ache for a child can be almost overwhelming. When it seems like every woman at the grocery store is pregnant, or when invitations for baby showers, gender reveals and first birthdays arrive. This does not mean that I am not genuinely happy for those friends and family, I certainly am. And I sincerely hope that they know that. But it also makes my heart ache and I ask myself, "why not me? why not us?" I don't have the answer to why it isn't Steven and I. Only that I have to trust in God's timing and His plan for my life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Infertility also means that there are no surprises for us. Everything is planned. I have a calendar where I have to check everything. Blood work every 21 to 30 days. More exams than I could have ever imagined. Waiting for test results. Waiting to test. Waiting to know. Infertility means medications. Every. Single. Day. I'm not talking about prenatal vitamins, although it means those to, but other medications that will force my body to do what it should do naturally.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Infertility means that family and others, who mean well, ask when we are going to have a baby. And I have to tell them, I don't know. Maybe soon, maybe never. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Infertility means grieving every month, when pregnancy is not achieved. Sometimes, for me, it means avoiding things like gender reveals, baby showers and the like. Because, try as I might, I can not help but to feel sad as the games are played and gifts are opened. Sometimes the sadness is more than others. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At times, for me, infertility means self doubt when I wonder if God hasn't given me a child because He knows that I would not be a good mother. Or that maybe it is because I lack some kind of personality trait needed to be a good mother. It has also meant, for me, that instead of loving my body for what it can do and does every day, that I focus and hate what it can not do or doesn't do, and with this, treating my body like it is hated, instead of loved. I am working on this. It is a process. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Infertility also means trusting God. And believing that no matter what, He is good. I think it has brought me a place to where trusting God is a must. I don't have any other choice. I trust that He has plans for me, I trust that they are good (Jeremiah 29:11) , and that God, in his omniscience<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">, can and does see this situation from all sides. He knows what has been, and He knows what is now, and He knows what is coming. This has been a gift from infertility. I do not think that I would trust Jesus and be seeking Him the way that I am, had it not, in part, been for this journey. It has brought me times like last month, when we had just found out that we were NOT pregnant again, and my heart just was hurting. I was listening to the radio on the way to work, crying and praying. And I said to God, "What about in the Bible, all those women that you gave children? What about Sarah, and Hannah, Elizabeth, Rachel and the others? Why can't I have the same miracle? "(okay so slight pity party.. but ya'll, it was a rough morning).</span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And I had this thought spoken to my heart.... "but what about all the other women that I didn't give children to, ones you have never even heard of? Does that not mean that I still didn't work a miracle in their lives? Does it make me any less capable? Does it make me any less loving or good?" And I had to reply, "No, Jesus, not one bit." This brought me hope, and comfort, and actually changed my whole day around. Infertility has meant that I have CHOSEN to trust God. He knows my heart, and I am learning more and more about His. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Out of all the negatives, this has been the greatest lesson of all. </span><br />
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<br />Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-77227884556233520272019-04-01T10:36:00.000-07:002019-04-01T10:36:31.038-07:00Ain't it Funny How Life Changes... So many things have changed, even in the last 2 weeks. Steven and I are doing great. We have settled into life so well. I just realized last week that it has been almost a year since we moved into our home. We are loving the space in the yard and worked hard last summer to clean up the yard a bit. We will have to do some more this year, but its coming along very well. <br />
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In December, we adopted a new dog. A true blue bluetick coonhound. She's such a sweetheart. She has some nervousness that we are working on. We have named her Peyton, and she gets along great with our other two dogs, Jarvis and Loki. Crate training/potty training is the biggest challenge, but we are making some progress! <br />
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The battle against infertility continues, but we continue to be hopeful. Knowing that God can make families in many different ways. <br />
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We actually have had my god daughter come to stay with us. It has been a life adjustment, but things are going well. I think everyone is a little tired, but, we wouldn't trade it for anything. She is a great kid, and is a lot of fun. We truly enjoy watching her learn, and we have been working on her spelling words. I think sometimes I am more nervous about her spelling tests than she is. Her confidence is growing and we can't wait to see the progress that she will make. <br />
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Overall, life is good. We are blessed. And we are thankful.<br />
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God is good all the time, and all the time, God. Is. Good.<br />
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<br />Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-6582988236644668692019-02-24T14:52:00.001-08:002019-02-24T14:52:30.553-08:00Sundays are for....All things relaxing...naps, coffee, crock pot meals, reading and even watching Hallmark movies...<br />
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We overslept this morning, and did not have time to get ready to get to church. I am so thankful that our church streams the service online, so that if you can't be there in person on a Sunday, we can watch online. I love my church, so we don't make the viewing online a routine thing, but it is nice to have in times like this morning or if you are sick.<br />
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It has been really rainy here this week, and although the sun is shining some today, its extremely windy. I'm a little worried about power outages, but for now, we are good. I try very hard not to complain about the weather. No one can control it. We only can control our reaction or moods to it. But, cheese and crackers, I am very much over the rain. Our yard is just a muddy mess and walking the dogs almost requires giving them a bath.<br />
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February is my least favorite month. I don't get hyped up for Valentine's Day, and the weather in February always seems so glum. I am thankful that it is almost over.<br />
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I'm looking forward to March, and warmer weather and birthday celebrations. We have a weekend getaway planned for March too, and I am very VERY excited for that.<br />
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I am also ready for planning the summer vacation, and just all the activities that are offered for outside during the spring and summer.<br />
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What is your favorite warm weather activity?<br />
<br />Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-65939073537536885442018-10-15T10:30:00.001-07:002018-10-15T10:30:38.853-07:00Let Me Tell You 'Bout My Best Friends...My husband is my best friend, and my favorite human.... but long before I ever met him, I had my best girlfriends in the world.<br />
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I had met Beth and Tasha years ago, in college. We were classmates with the same major and so we almost always had the same classes. We were friends, but not like kind you hang out with regularly. One spring break, there was a small group trip to Gatlinburg, and by the time we left, I knew I had made my lifelong friends.<br />
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We have seen each other through so many things. We don't have to talk every day to know that we are there...but I definitely think that as we have gotten older, and have had more life events, we talk more. They are the most supportive, honest, funny, and both humble people you will ever meet. They both are hard workers, love their families and so smart it will amaze you!<br />
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As much as we have in common, we have many differences.<br />
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Beth is a farm girl, who is surrounded by cows, dogs, and the most beautiful farm land that you will ever see. It has often been my quiet place to go when my heart has been broken, or if I needed to just get away from my world for a little while.<br />
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Tasha is our traveler! She loves going to the beach, taking a cruise, and she is always on the move. I don't think she spends the weekends sitting at home, ever! Two beautiful children, and a husband that make up her world, she is also extremely close to her sister and parents.<br />
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These two women help make me a better women, wife, and friend. I honestly think more of them as my family (and, its nothing for each of us to invite the others to family events), than my friends, and I couldn't love them anymore if they were my sisters!<br />
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I know, with out a shadow of a doubt, that God himself picked these two to be my friends, and my sisters by choice!<br />
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The picture below is from my wedding in October 2017...it sums up our friendship perfectly...and is one of my favorite photos from our wedding.<br />
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and now for a more formal photo:</div>
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I hope that everyone can have friends as wonderful and special as these two!</div>
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<br />Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-63036685937421319132018-10-02T13:38:00.000-07:002018-10-02T13:38:11.042-07:00Fall Bucket ListWhat are your favorite Fall ideas?<br />
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We always go to a pumpkin patch, and corn maize. Those are just two every year traditions. Every year I say I am going to host a Halloween party, and this year we actually have the space, but I think I am just going to participate in our church's Trunk or Treat.<br />
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I want Steven and I to pick a theme and really go all out for it. I have 30 days to plan it, so I need to find a good theme and start getting the decorations together. I am thinking Mary Poppins and Burt? or Anne of Green Gables and Gilbert (which no one would get), or maybe even a character from Once Upon a Time. Not sure yet. I'm open to suggestions. Just as long as they aren't anything scary.<br />
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Here's our fall bucket list:<br />
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Corn Maize/Pumpkin patch/Hayride<br />
Carving Pumpkins<br />
Watch "The Wizard of Oz"<br />
Go to a football game (We have our tickets! Go Vols!)<br />
Head to the Peaks of Otter for some fall scenery and a picnic<br />
Visit some fall festivals<br />
Fall Camping?<br />
Coffee by the fire pit...many times (will this weather ever cool down??)<br />
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I want to fill every weekend with something to celebrate my FAVORITE season.. what else should I add?Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-84183593293289337222018-09-30T13:37:00.002-07:002018-09-30T13:37:58.895-07:00What does a weekend look like for you? I am usually go, go , go, and getting my lists done. However, these last two weekends, I don't feel like doing anything. I make a list of things to do, and then I accomplish none of it. I don't know if I am just tired from the summer, or if the weather is changing and is just making me tired, or what.. but I have got to get on a ball! We have the holidays coming up and they are always a big deal for decorating and food preparations, so, the things I have planned, I need to get done.<br />
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The last two weekends, I drag myself out of bed, drink coffee, and lay around until football games come on. Blah...<br />
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Today, we did manage to run some errands and do some laundry. But now, its dinner in the crockpot and Hallmark Channel movies.<br />
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Anyone else feeling a little blah??Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-27373840944461845572018-09-19T10:24:00.001-07:002018-09-19T10:32:57.329-07:00If I had a nickel..If I had a nickel for every time I thought about making a post, I would be rich.But it is always at the times where I can't. Not to mention that our computer died, so I'm trying to figure out to maintain it without one. Tablets and phones just aren't great for blogging. There really aren't any really great apps. But, I've caught a few minutes, so, here is an update on where we are...<br />
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We are pretty settled... Our year anniversary is coming up next month. I don't know how a whole year has passed so fast. Life just goes on every day, no matter what, doesn't it?<br />
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Our jobs are good. Holding steady and changing all at the same time. Next week, I begin to work from home some. Which just strengthens my desire to eventually be a stay at home mom. I never thought I would want that. But, I do. Its a goal we are working towards... and on that note..<br />
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No... we aren't pregnant.... We actually aren't even trying right now. I had a small out patient surgery in July, to treat a hyperplasia. Its not cancer, but its what can turn to uterine cancer if not treated. So, we are taking 6 months to treat it. We are 1 month in to the treatment. We are very hopeful that this will be successful and that at the end of the 6 months we can begin trying for a baby again.<br />
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On the upside, this time has allowed me to get a stronger handle on my health. I have lost almost 20 lbs. That last pound is hanging on for all its worth. Twenty pounds is my first goal. It has also allowed me to come off almost all my medications, and the one that is left, has reduced its dose by half. I feel better than I have in years.<br />
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We are looking forward to all things fall... football, cooler weather, pumpkins, and all our fall adventures.<br />
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What do you like best about Autumn?Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-35333652400839502242018-05-22T10:28:00.002-07:002018-05-22T10:28:45.235-07:00Infertility Battle: The Beginning<br />
Lots of people know about my journey with Fibromyalgia. But what a lot of people don't know about is that I have struggled with infertility as well. It has been something that has been a battle since I was 23 years old. There have been so many wishful moments, followed by sad moments, and stressful moments. <br />
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When I met Steven, and we first started dating, I made it clear to him that before things got too serious, he needed to know that I struggled with infertility and that biological children may not be possible for me, and that if he thought about being serious with me, he needed to think really long and hard about that. Being the man that he is, he said pretty much said he loved me and not my ability to have or not have children, and that there are plenty of children who need homes and people who will love them. Bless him. <br />
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As soon as we got married, we began our battle with infertility together. I am older than Steven by about 12 years so, according to our doctor, our years left to try to conceive are dwindling... or rather, my years... Steven has plenty. <br />
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What we are up against is the condition called PCOS. Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome. All these tiny cysts form on my ovaries, preventing an egg from being released. It prevents ovulation. No ovulation, no pregnancy, no menstrual cycles. Its a mess. My hormones are a mess. I also have Endometriosis. Which in a nutshell makes when I do have a menstrual cycle, very painful. I have had 2 surgeries in my early 20s for that. It comes back though. <br />
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So long story short, this is what we are battling against. <br />
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The upcoming weeks and months are going to be filled with decisions and a lot of hurry up and wait. Its going to be a roller coaster of emotions, and goodness help us, emotions. <br />
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But, this is part of our Happily Ever After story. And we are living day to day in it. Some days good, some days bad, but always loving each other.<br />
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<br />Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-29469624344142968462018-02-07T10:46:00.005-08:002018-02-07T10:48:02.394-08:00Moments<br />
I have thought the last few days in the direction of where I wanted to take my blog. What did I want focus on in my writing? Did I even want to write anymore? There are a few topics that come to mind, and they are all part of my life, and any given day, the focus changes. I could talk about our focus to get out of debt, my struggles with Fibromyalgia, PCOS, and migraines, or just being newlyweds and our day to day life, like when we stay home and eat dinner on the couch and watch Law and Order: SVU. <br />
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I really don't know that there will be one solid focus. I just would like to be more consistent in posting. I think of topics, but it seems to be when I am driving or right before I fall to sleep, and within a few moments, they are forgotten. <br />
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So, here is an update on where we are now, and maybe I can use this as a place to jump from in the future...<br />
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Steven and I have settled into a nice routine of married life. The week is filled with work, house work and things of that sort. We have enjoyed some weekend "dates" of walking the antique stores. It is one of our favorite things to do. Sometimes we just stay home and nap and watch movies. We are probably the oldest young people I know. But we love to just be at home with our pups. Funny how things change. <br />
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Steven is almost done with his apprenticeship, and we are excited to see where that will lead him in a few months. If only I could talk him into attending the graduation. He has worked hard and I wish that he would go and celebrate his accomplishment. Either way, there will be celebrations here at home for him. <br />
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I am still working at the same place. Almost 3 years now. I like my job and the people there. Dealing with the constant pain and fatigue of Fibromyalgia is exhausting. Mentally and physically. It's also hard when you feel like a burden to people or that they are tired of hearing that you don't feel well, or that you have to cancel plans, again. I've pretty much gotten to the point where I don't make a lot of plans out of fear that I will have to cancel them. If you ask how I feel, I will say, "fine." This is my norm. I am so jealous of those who have boundless energy and truly have their health. But I am also thankful that I can still work, and I have joys in my life. I have picked back up on my reading and I hope to add some other type of hobby as well, just have to figure out how to either knit or crochet. <br />
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Our families are overall well, we are loved and we love them. <br />
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What topics would you like to see from this blog? I would love to hear from you! Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-5592912314241539962018-01-01T22:30:00.001-08:002018-01-01T22:30:12.331-08:00#GoalDiggerI used to make New Year's resolutions every year. Go to the gym, lose weight, eat healthy, etc. However, I gave that up many years ago. I think it sets up really high expectations for yourself and then, if you can not keep up the resolution, then it can set up feelings of defeat or failure. <div>
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This year I gave myself a goal...not a resolution. My goal is to take better care of myself. I'm not going to say, "oh, I'm going to lose 30 pounds" or "I'm only going to eat healthy"...because ya'll, that does not work for me. But what I can say is, "I'm going to put myself first over some things and take care of myself." </div>
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This wasn't a decision that I came to easily. I thought about it for weeks. I thought about if I could really commit to taking care of myself. The last couple of years, I haven't really done that. I put things ahead of what I needed to do for myself. </div>
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So, 2018, is about taking care of myself. I've already begun easing out of some of the responsibilities that had my focus elsewhere, and that caused me stress. I'm looking forward to trying out some new things that I've been interested in as far as hobbies, and picking up old hobbies that I love, like reading, again. </div>
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I think 2018 is going to be a very interesting year for our little family! </div>
Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-54960556870783443202017-12-12T11:04:00.003-08:002017-12-12T11:04:47.924-08:00The Stockings Were Hung...There are 13 days left, well 12 1/2, before Christmas. This is one of my most favorite times of the year. And, as I grow older, I am becoming more and more low key about it. I still do the lights and the tree, and my ceramic trees of course.. but I found my decorations are more things that are the things that are flashy or trendy, but more things that are classic and that I can still enjoy in 50 years. The things in my home for Christmas are things that mean something to me. Special ornaments from our first Christmas together, and from this year, our first married Christmas. I have ceramic trees that remind me of the one that my grandmother had when I was growing up. They really are beautiful, and I hope to add to my collection over the years. <br />
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Steven and I have also decorated with the Moon and Star vintage glass that we collect. Its a simple, but festive touch throughout the house. The glass reflects the lights of the tree and its a beautiful, simple, decoration for the season. <br />
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The newest item that I can't wait to add is a starter set of the wire light balls. A dear friend made me a starter set out of the chicken wire and I need to add lights. There are 4 of them, so I would like to 2 clear, and 1 red, and 1 green. They are really outdoor decorations that you hang in trees, so I need to figure out where to hang them, but I may put them inside for this year.. or until we have trees in the yard! <br />
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I'm not nearly down with the shopping, but I'm not stressed about it. It will get done when it gets done. I'm more into enjoying my favorite Christmas movies, singing Christmas carols, spending time with my family and friends, and this weekend... baking! <br />
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Its really going to be A Merry Christmas...Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-28908526584042755682017-11-16T10:25:00.000-08:002017-11-16T10:25:38.844-08:00We are SOOO married...And it's great! It was a perfect day. We didn't have a videographer, but now I wish we had, just so I could relive that day a thousand times. There isn't one thing I would have changed. The honeymoon was perfect as well. Everyone should go to the beach in mid-fall. We even enjoyed getting in the ocean a few days. We shopped, we ate, (boy.. did we shop and eat) and we just enjoyed spending uninterrupted time with each other. And if you ever get a chance to eat at a Paula Deen restuarnt, you should do that as well. Might be the best meal we had on the honeymoon. Steven enjoyed a brewery and a distillery, and I enjoyed visiting the tasting room of my favorite winery, Duplin. It was just the best time. And it was so hard to come back to real life!<br />
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We do not have any of our pictures yet, but I cannot wait to see them. Steven made a great rustic guestbook frame for our wedding guests to sign and for us to display our wedding pictures in, so I can't wait to get them back and have them displayed on the walls for years to come.<br />
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Most nights are filled with just regular life stuff. Dinner, clean up and getting ready for the next day. We have a tv show that we watch online so we catch up on that. Its nice to just not have a lot to do. <br />
And its okay with me if it stays this way for a little while longer. Winter is a hard season on my fibro, and it wears me out. So, going to bed at 10pm or earlier, does not hurt my feelings at all!!<br />
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Its a good life.... And I'm so thankful!Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-74104649739475304602017-10-05T10:44:00.004-07:002017-10-05T10:44:47.696-07:00Singe Digits!The wedding is only 9 days away! 9 DAYS AWAY! We are in single digits ya'll!!!<br />
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I am so excited! I can not wait. <br />
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Not just for the wedding that we have spent the better part of the last year planning, but for spending the rest of my life as Mrs. Andrews. <br />
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I think we have a beautiful life ahead of us. <br />
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<br />Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-60400473923537099442017-09-18T07:07:00.001-07:002017-09-18T07:07:50.369-07:00Opinions are like Elbows.... This weekend, I engaged in a discussion on social media about tattoos and faith. I honestly wish I had kept my opinions to myself. Not because I think that they are wrong... but because there are some people who are so closed off to any ideas other than their own, that they will not listen. I wish I could post screen shots of the conversation, but the original poster of the topic has taken it down. I'm not going to get into thoughts of the debate here, but I will just say this. I have tattoos. Three of them. And I think Jesus loves me just the same as those who do not. <br />
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But opinions are like elbows right? Most everyone has them. Just like points of view, or sides to the story..... Everyone wants to be heard... That's really what social media is now, right? A platform for other's views... It used be fun. It used to be just when people took pictures of their kids doing funny things, or what they made for dinner, or their Christmas tree decorated in front of the window. <br />
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Oh, I'm not saying that people should use it for more serious things. Not at all. I'm just saying that these days, its seems like everything is serious. Every. Single. Thing. <br />
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Maybe I just need to unplug from it for a while. After all, I only have less than 4 weeks to my wedding. I have a lot of things to do. Time more wisely spent, correct? <br />
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I'm just saying.. maybe a little bit of balance... not every thing has to be so serious all the time. Balance, people... balance... <br />
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But that's just my opinion.. and we all know.. opinions are like elbows.. most everyone has them....Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-17909172954813242662017-09-07T10:13:00.001-07:002017-09-07T10:13:21.207-07:0037 DaysWe have 37 days until our wedding. <br />
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I cannot wait.<br />
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I am so ready.<br />
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But I keep thinking of things that need to be done. <br />
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That's normal, right?<br />
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This morning, when I walked outside, it felt like fall, and I loved it. LOVED it. I keep looking at the picture of my wedding gown... I can no wait until I can see how it all comes together. <br />
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My biggest worry is that the reception will be boring. And I will hate it if it is. So, here's hoping the DJ is as fabulous as I hope he is and that its fun! <br />
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The days are passing so fast. <br />
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It will be here before I know it. And I'll be on my honeymoon before I know it. And then I'll be back at work before I know it. <br />
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I hope there are tons of pictures so I can have it all remembered. <br />
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37 more days....Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-47208262536458713322017-07-30T19:43:00.000-07:002017-07-30T19:43:01.477-07:00This weekend has been full of wedding hustle and bustle. We are in the home sketch, with less than 75 days to go! I can not believe that we are this close to our wedding and being husband and wife. Time goes by so quickly! After this weekend, and a lot of the big things that were accomplished, I feel a lot less anxious about the actual event. Everything is coming together so nicely, and I have had wonderful people come along side me to help. I could not do this without them.<br />
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The next chapter of our lives is so full of possibilities and we have a lot of choices to make on where we want to go and what we want to do. Steven will finish up his apprenticeship in the next 10 months, and then we will have to decide to either stay in my hometown, or move back to his. Or, will we go somewhere new for both of us. We have talked about all of these possibilities and we have one plan so far, but we are open to others if they are better for us.<br />
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I love talking about how the future and what we may do...Steven is more of a "let's see where we are at" kind of person. That's okay. I need that sometimes to bring me back down to earth from dreamland. I don't care what city we live in, as long as we building a life together.<br />
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This is such an exciting time in our lives. It makes me feel young, and hopeful. I hope that we have many, mnay, many years to share life together.Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-50944846369739040982017-07-26T13:09:00.000-07:002017-07-26T13:09:12.105-07:00A Different Direction...For a long time, I've thought about how I could do something to reach out to others who, like me, live with a chronic illness. Its not a secret to my family, or my friends, or even my coworkers that I have a chronic pain condition. But what could I do for others who, like me, at times feel alone, or trapped inside our own bodies? So, I've decided to blog about it. Probably a lot. I'm not going to change my blog name, because I will still blog about my life in general. Let's face it. Fibro touches every part of my life. Every single part. Every single day. I've always struggled with where I wanted this blog to go, what I wanted it to say, and this just feels right.<br />
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I don't know if it will help anyone else, other than me. Just putting my words out there. I hope that it will. I hope that others will know that they are not alone. This is not a pity party. Its just life as I live it.<br />
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I also hope that others, who maybe have friends, family or even just know someone who has fibromyalgia, will get even just a small glimpse of what a life with fibromyalgia is, on the worst days and on the best days.<br />
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And maybe one day, others can share their stories here as well. <br />
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I invite you to follow along. Not every post will be easy, or cheerful, but I promise it will be honest. <br />
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Thank you for reading... and welcome to this journey....<br />
<br />Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-20209242625409361312017-05-01T07:57:00.003-07:002017-05-01T07:57:45.544-07:00My Biggest RegretIt's probably not what you think. It's not a job, or a relationship, or wardrobe choices...<br />
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it's not something I purchased or didn't purchase, or somewhere I went or didn't go. </div>
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I am fairly young, and as long as I am alive, I will continue to make choices the best I can.<br />
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My biggest regret so far in life is not being present in the moment. Not cherishing the time that I am in, and not soaking up every experience through every one of my senses.<br />
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We live in a fast paced world. We need what we need and we need it yesterday. We run at a break neck pace to keep up with schedules that are crammed full of errands, chores, bills to pay, and places to go. We also live in a world where we are so focused on posting life to our social media that we aren't present for the moments in our lives. Or, we constantly have our phones out and we are scrolling while talking to someone or while we are doing another task. We are so interested in what another is doing that we are missing out on our own lives!<br />
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I am so very guilty of this. I miss out on fully participating in conversations, or in enjoyable moments, because I'm too busy seeing what others are doing. I feel like I have to carry my phone with me every where. And then I think, this is insanity. No one should be tethered to any device that does not give live. <br />
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So, I'm making changes. I'm deleting apps off my phone that suck me in. I can now only use them on my laptop, which in a turn of irony, can only be used if its plugged in, until I replace the battery, so it stays on the desk. I will vow to leave my phone in another room or in a desk drawer when at work. Or if I have it out at work, because I enjoy listening to podcasts while I'm working, I will place it upside down and at the back of my desk out of site so that I am not as tempted to "grab and scroll". I will focus my time and energy on what I am doing. I think I will find that I am more efficient and find more joy and less worry through this. A real conversation with friends. Watching a baseball game, or enjoying a movie, going for a walk and actually enjoying the environment around me. <br />
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I'm looking forward to these changes. I'm looking forward to my quality of life improving, while my social media time decreases. I'm welcoming the less stress. <br />
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Happy Monday Everyone!<br />
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Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-3272698278447964932017-04-10T17:24:00.001-07:002017-04-10T17:24:35.801-07:006 More MonthsThere are only 6 more months until the wedding! I can hardly wait.. but ya'll, wedding planning can be a little stressful at times. I'm very happy with all the plans so far, but just when I think something is taken care of, there's another little detail to pay attention to. The great thing is, I know that no matter what, the day will be perfect because it will be filled with a lot of happiness and love. My main goal is to for everyone, including myself and Steven to have fun.<div>
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I still have so much to do, and I need to be better at sitting down and planning. I need lists for my lists. I have a great help in my bridesmaids and I am thankful for them. I can't wait to spend time with them. I think we are going to have a fun time in planning the bridal shower and the bachlorette weekend as well. </div>
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And ya'll....Pinterest..... what can I say... I want to try every.single.idea.ever.</div>
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I actually get a little overwhelmed at the ideas and have to stop looking at it for awhile. Anyone else?</div>
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I wasn't too into getting bridal magazines. I bought a couple and it just seemed like they repeated each other. </div>
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So, I just keep adding to my Pinterest boards, and coming up with all these new ideas. </div>
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In the meantime, I should get started on those lists. The tasks to do aren't getting any less...</div>
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Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-24328599631723533472016-11-26T18:45:00.001-08:002016-11-26T18:45:37.028-08:00Happy Thanksgiving and Stars HollowSteven and I celebrated our first Thanksgiving in our new home. We hosted dinner for a few family and friends complete with with turkey and all the fixings. We followed up with pumpkin pie, and of course football. It was a beautiful day, and we enjoyed it so much. It was also a very busy day, and unfortunately, we did not get any pictures!<br />
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We are not Black Friday Shoppers, so we stayed home and decorated for Christmas! All the inside decorations are up and as soon as we get a chance, we are putting up the outside decorations.<br />
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Today, we did run some errands. I told someone that you know you have reached a new level of adulthood when you look forward to buying a vacuum cleaner. But it was good to get out and spend time together. We enjoyed some Target time, and of course Starbucks, and finished our night out with a stop for pizza at our favorite place, Frank's.<br />
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Two words... "Gilmore Girls." Oh dear, this is my favorite show of all time. I have been watching the new "revival" series on Netflix, "Gilmore Girls, A Year in the Life." I'm on Summer so far, and I only have Fall to go, and I am already dreading the end. I have always wanted to live in Stars Hollow and be Lorelai Gilmore. It is really a fantastic show.<br />
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Once all the decorations are up, I will post pictures!<br />
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Hope your Thanksgiving Holiday was as wonderful as mine!<br />
<br />Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9009325102156971496.post-80378590071657068622016-11-13T09:28:00.000-08:002016-11-13T09:30:02.067-08:00Hi Ya'll!About a year and half ago, I went my weekly friends night out. What had started out as just myself and a friend going line dancing once a week, had evolved into a group outing. And one of my friends, Justin, had invited his co-worker, Steven, and friend to come along. We all enjoyed learning new steps, food, and fun. Steven fast became part of our group. And fast a part of my life. We became friends, and then the rest is history!<br />
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Steven and I have been together for a little over a year. And in September of this year, he asked me to marry him while we were on vacation in the Outer Banks. We are in the process of planning our wedding and planning our life. We couldn't be more excited to start our lives together!<br />
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The wedding is planed for next October, and planning is underway.<br />
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Welcome to our Happily Ever After!<br />
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~~Tracy~~<br />
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Tracy Andrewshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026295593123573883noreply@blogger.com0