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Today's guest post, Deserts Will Blossom is contributed by Lisa Newton of Amateur Nester blog. Check out her website to find more helpful information about infertility, as well as her eBooks too, at www.AmateurNester.com. Thanks .

A Prayer for Facing Another Who is Pregnantfrom the book Dancing Upon Barren Land - Prayer, Scripture Reflection & Hope for Infertilityby Lesli A. Westfall "Faithful God, everywhere I turn, I see a pregnant belly. The very .

Prayer: "Father God, I thank You that You have given Your Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross for all my sins, past, present and future. Father, I draw near to You with a sincere .

by Lesli A. Westfall When I first start leading support groups we'd use a specific book. Other times I created the lesson and shared it within the group. Reproductive Cycle vs. Relationship is just one of .

MALE STERILITY Prayer: "Heavenly Father, Your Word said You formed my inward parts. I am fearfully and wonderfully made in Your image. You made me male and you gave us the command to be fruitful and multiply, .

Almighty, God, it seems as if every time I turn around I am faced with a celebration involving a baby including today, Mother's Day.  In my heart, I don't want to be jealous, angry or .

HAPPY ________ DAY? Hello friends,Happy _______ Day? You fill in the blank. For all of us who live here in the U.S. we know this coming weekend is our Mother’s Day holiday. But for some us, it .

I've concluded over my years of struggling with infertility --- I needed support! Support beyond what was given by my family and closest friends. I needed support from one who is going through it, just .

Plant Your Tears by Lisa Newton Amateur Nester Blog ___________ Today's guest post is from my friend, Lisa Newton of Amateur Nester blog. I cannot recall how I first came to know Lisa --- somehow through the .

Don't forget, if you have a prayer request make sure to post it on our Prayer Wall. Today's Morning Prayer is on Male Sterility. Please share this post if you know of another couple who's struggling .

 ATTN: RESIDENTS OF ILLINOIS YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS FAITH-BASED CONFERENCE! Natalie Flemons says..Fertilizing Your Faith presents "Overcomer Fertility Faith Conference" for men and women who are believing God for a baby via conception or adoption. .

A Prayer for When You and Your Spouse Disagreeby Lesli A. Westfall "Gracious God, my quest to have a child had brought conflict into my marriage. I feel as if my spouse and I are divided. .

I'm starting a monthly series of posts for Infertility Etiquette. The word etiquette originated in the mid 18th century from the French, essentially meaning 'ticket'. Back in the day it was a list of ceremonial .

Today's guest post is from my good friend, Beth Forbus. Beth is founder and leader of Sarah's Laughter - Christian Support for Infertility & Child Loss in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She offers "Daily Double Portions", .

Prayer for Difficult Relationshipsby Lesli A. Westfall "Sovereign Lord, this fertility journey is not easy on my relationship with others. Help me to be silent or to watch what I say. Let no unwholesome word come .

I’m a Christian, I read my Bible and I pray. I am good person and I do good to others. Why doesn’t God answer my prayer for a baby?” Have you ever thought this? I know .

A Prayer for a Broken Heartby Lesli A. Westfall Compassionate Father, my heart is crushed from this infertility battle. My emotions are frazzled. Lord, You said in Your Word you are close to the brokenhearted and save .

For the One Going Through Infertility Forgive often. Educate others about infertility. Teach family and friends what to say and how to say it to you. When on medication, or going through procedures, be gentle with yourself. It is ok .

Morning Prayer for feeling FORGOTTEN  Scripture Reflection: Samuel 12:22, Isaiah 49:15-16, Matthew 10:29-31, 28:20,John 14:18, Romans 8:35-39, Ephesians 1:6 KJV, Hebrews 4:13 NAS from Dancing Upon Barren Land - Prayer, Scripture Reflection & Hope for Infertility “Heavenly Father, I praise .

photo credit Hannah Bunker Three years ago today my book, Dancing Upon Barren Land - Prayer, Scripture Reflection & Hope for Infertility was published. It's hard to believe it was three years ago! I must say, .

Good Results From IVF Egg Donors Over Age 35Pregnancy, live birth rates from older and younger women appear comparable By Mary Elizabeth DallasTuesday, October 20, 2015 TUESDAY, Oct. 20, 2015 (HealthDay News) -- Results of in vitro .

Morning Prayer for DIRECTION from the book Dancing Upon Barren Land - Prayer, Scripture Reflection & Hope for Infertility Scripture Reflection: Psalm 138:8, Proverbs 3:5-6 “Heavenly Father, I ask that You will fulfill Your purpose for my life, my desire .

Once again I'm so grateful to have as a guest post from Kristin B. Meyer, LMSW, Assistant Director of Adoption Services  from Bethany Christian Services.  If you'd like to know more about Bethany's support services for .

A Dazzling Desire in a Dark Placefrom Her Story, His Touch Seriesby Lesli A. Westfall “And we have the prophetic word [made] firmer still. You will do well to pay close attention to it, to a .

The end of 2015 is approaching and for some of you this has been a rough year. Perhaps you've tried everything you can do medically to conceive, including extensive fertility treatments, yet still no baby. If .

We Remember You! October 15th marks Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day, a day where we remember those of you who have lost your child (children) in pregnancy or as an infant. Not only is .

  Today's guest post is from Christ Nueman. She is an infertility survivor and an adoptive mom with a huge hear for those walking the journey of infertility and loss where she is co-founder of A.B.I.D.E. Ministry .

  Waiting "Gracious Father, waiting is hard, especially when I see pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be strong and of .

Will You Join Me? When: Thursday, April 9th, 2015Time: 7:00 p.m. CSTPlace: Right at your own computer or smart phoneTopic: Baby-Related Holidays - How to Handle the Days with Grace In order to take part in April .

Today's guest post is from one of my dearest friends I've come to know on this infertility journey, Roxanne Knott, founder of Grace Filled Waiting, an online ministry devoted to prayer and compassionate encouragement for .

  5th Annual Family Building Conference April 25, 2015in  Kansas City, Missouri REGISTER HERE: www.kcinfertility.org Are you beyond frustrated trying to conceive? Do you need support and encouragement? Would you like to learn ALL of the options available .

Jealousy & Envy "Loving Father, you Word tells me how to love. I know being envious and jealous is not part of Your divine love. Father, I am struggling with envy and jealousy as I see .

Some of you may be a long time subscriber to DUBL or a new comer. Either way, have you ever shopped through our Store Page? If so, you might have seen this book. I have .

   Y'all! This is my friend, Emmy Blakely. Allow me to give you the scoop on her. She is the creative founder behind the event, Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference. I came to know Emmy as .

  Today's guest post, Be Still and Know I am God  is from my friend, Beth Forbus of Sarah's Laughter , a ministry providing Christian support for Infertility and Child Loss. I first came to know of Sarah's .

Shame, Guilt and Condemnation "Father God, I thank You that You have given Your Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross for all my sins, past, present, and future. Father, I draw near to You .

Our guest post today is from Lisa Newton of Amateur Nester blog. In her words, she describes herself as a daughter of Christ trying-to-conceive and hoping to encourage others doing the same. And I must say, .

Waterton Lake National Park .  Alberta, Canada .  Photo Credit: me ********* Sit Awhileby Lesli Westfall Dear Subscriber / Friends, I find it hard to know where to begin, so I’m beginning with this quote:

 “I could get out of .

Secondary Infertility "God of abundance, I'm thankful for the one child You have given me but am struggling with guilt for desiring another. Your Word said there is not guilt or condemnation for those who are .

Facing Another Who Is Pregnant "Faithful God, everywhere I turn, I see a pregnant belly. The very thing I desire is all around me. Help my eyes and my heart to turn upward toward You instead .

Mark your calendars for April 24 - 25th, 2015 for Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference  Laguna Hills, California You may be wondering what is Choose Joy? Well, Choose Joy, IMO, is one of the best .

Daughter Sing SoftlyBy Lesli A. Westfall Along with the visit of winter comes the wet, dull, silent days and gray landscape, even in Southeast Texas. On the other hand, there is always a turn between the seasons. .

  Prayer for the Futurefrom the book, Dancing Upon Barren Land - Prayer, Scripture Reflection & Hope for Infertilityby Lesli A. Westfall Shepherd of my soul, I praise You because You have created me and have a .

Fertility Fact Friday Embryo Adoption Recently a dear friend of mine sent me this article, Infertility Leads Couple to Embryo Adoption.  It's the story of this dear couple, Leslee and Mitchell and their journey of faith through .

Surviving the Holidays Tips for Infertility1. Be Prepared: Discuss with your spouse how you will handle questions about your future family, or how you two will respond with a distant relative who has the baby booties .

Join the Online Support Group "How to Get Through the Holidays" This Thursday, December 18 at 7 p.m CST This Thursday marks Dancing Upon Barren Land's first online support group gathering through Google Hangouts.  The topic, How to Get .

  Girls Night Out! For those of you who live in the Houston, Texas or surrounding areas, will you join us for one of the following events? From personal experience I know how daunting it is to attend .

  Prayer for the Holiday Season "Almighty God, it seems as if every time I turn around I am faced with a celebration involving children. In my heart, I don't want to feel emotional or to be .

A Prayer of Thanksgivingfrom BookofCommanPrayer.net "Accept, O Lord, our thanks and praise for all that You have done for us. We thank You for the splendor of the whole creation, for the beauty of this world, for .

  Welcome, to the new website! Whether you've been a part of the Dancing Upon Barren Land Community for awhile now or are a new subscriber to the blog I just want to say, "Welcome! I'm so .

Today's post is short and sweet. I just wanted to send an encouraging song and a quote for you to ponder. Yesterday, the song "Over All" by Phil Wickham kept playing over in my head .

The month of October marks National Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness month here in the United States. We here at Dancing Upon Barren Land ministry want you to know someone cares, someone recognizes your loss, .

Lacey & Michael and their two sons. Photo credit: Eric Forsythe of Forsythe Fotography Michael and I met in 5th grade Sunday school class; he was the quiet one and I was the social butterfly.  We .

  Prayer for Direction Everlasting God, I ask that You will fulfill Your purpose for my life, my desire for children. Help me not to lean upon my own understanding or rationalize the thoughts in my head. .

 September marks PCOS Awareness month. If you are not familiar with PCOS, otherwise known as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome it is the most common endocrine disorder in females. It can severely block your chances to conceive .

If you've been following along on the blog you've probably noticed a series I've been writing, Living Life While You Wait. Today, marks part three of the series, Seeds of Talent. I've been taking parts .

Last month I started a three-part series of blog posts on Living Life While You Wait - Seeds of Character.  You can read part one here. Here's the second installment, Living Life While You Wait .

  Morning Prayer || Rest || Today, here in the United States is a national holiday, Labor Day. It is a holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September and is a celebration of the American labor .

Support Groups in the Houston, Texas area One thing about this ministry is coming alongside in the form of support groups for those who are hurting through infertility or loss, or seeking adoption too. Below is .

Today, I go for a court hearing. It's not because of an offense I've committed, but to witness a birth. To observe the sign and seal of a beautiful package already delivered to my dear .

for Quiet Confidence "O God of peace, who hast taught us that in returning and rest we shall be saved, in quietness and confidence shall be our strength: By the might of thy Spirit lift us, we pray thee, to thy presence, where we may be .

Masculinity & Infertility Recently I received Resolve, the National Infertility Association's newsletter in the mail. There's a great article included within its' pages Masculinity & My Infertility Journey by Kevin T. Jordan. I found his story interesting and .

Hi there! Apart from my occasional Monday Morning Prayer and Fertility Fact posts I'm creating a series of three blog posts titled, Living Life While You Wait. I'll not only share a bit of my experience, .

Test Results Prayer: Prince of Peace, as I await these results I choose to cast down every imagination---fear, anxiety, and worry--brining them into the captivity of Christ. I thank You that  I have no need to fear .

Fertility Fact Friday ______ "Hey Doc! how much is it?" As I was in the doctor's office yesterday awaiting a pelvic ultrasound I was scrolling through Pinterest on my phone. I came across a pin from an article .

Join us! Social Outings & Support Group meeting Our HOPE - Hearts Of Promise & Expectation Christian Infertility Support groups for Women here in the Houston, Texas area will meet for our bi-annual socials this week. Plus, .

DIFFICULT RELATIONSHIPS The Prayer: “Heavenly Father, this fertility journey is not easy on my relationship with others. Help me to be silent or to watch what I say, and that no unwholesome word will come out of my mouth, .

Join me and my fearless-leader friend, Sarah Nelson of The Foundry as we start the new HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group here in Houston. The group is open to any woman whether you're experiencing infertility, .

This weekend in the United States Father's Day will be celebrated. Even though the following post is not infertility related I believe it will speak to the heart of any woman. Have a great weekend! Love .

Forgotten... As I type the ellipsis, the series of dots behind the word forgotten it reminds me of how we can feel on this journey. The dots representing a trail, something either left out or left off. Have .

Watching Over My husband loves animals.  He has a soft spot for animals and little girls. So soft he is like butter on a hot summer day, he just melts. So every now and again I'll .

Conception What do you do when you've done everything to make a baby? What do you do when you've spent all your savings on fertility treatments? What do you do when the doctors have told you, like they've .

Hello friends, Happy _______ Day? You fill in the blank. For all of us who live here in the U.S. we know this weekend is our Mother's Day holiday. But for some us, it is so .

(a lovely screenshot from my iPhone) "I'm here for you." How comforting are those words, right? Well, I mean them from the bottom of my heart. I truly am here for you. It's been almost 5 years ago, to .

*In just a matter of a few weeks Mother's Day will be celebrated here in the United States. This prayer will be a help to you  during this time. Why not send it to a .

When People Say Insensitive Things Heavenly Father, why do people say unkind things? I've been hurt by their words and insensitivity. Help me not to be offended, angry, or bitter because of what is said. Instead, .

Women of Hope Christian Infertility Support Group Bent Tree Bible Fellowship Carrollton, Texas, 2007 Most of us in and around the infertility world know this week is National Infertility Awareness Week. Prayerfully we are making a difference to .

Waiting Gracious Father, waiting is hard, especially when I see pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be strong and of .

Fertility Fact Friday Spring time has sprung here in Texas!  Our past winter here has been brutal on plants. If you're anything like me you might be itching to dig in the dirt and ready to .

Re-posted with permission from Michaela Evanow I don't know how I come across bloggers/writers, but somehow I do. And every now and again I fall in love with their writing, in essence, their heart. Not long .

Monday Morning Prayer Instead of the usual prayer and scripture reflection for Monday Morning Prayer I thought I'd do something a little different.  I wanted to share in today's post,  "What is Prayer?".  For some of us .

Free Event Join, Sarah Nelson of The Foundry Church in Houston for their free event, this Saturday, April 12th at 10 a.m. Her guest will be Leslee Murphee, licensed therapist who specializes helping couples through infertility. .

Live Oak Tree Independence, Texas Howdy all! That's how we greet one another here in Texas, however, this post isn't about Texas, this blog post is a test. I'm having some issue with my email campaign which .

  Freesia photo credit: Hannah Bunker Hi All! This email is a test. I've experienced a little challenge with my posts going out to my subscriber email list. So, if you've received this via your inbox, could you let .

Forgotten Prayer: “Heavenly Father, I praise You that you were pleased to make me Your own and have accepted me in the beloved family of God because of your dear Son, Jesus Christ. Father, these fertility challenges have made .

L to R: Sarah Nelson of The Foundry United Methodist Church and me, some of my dearest PeePs, JoAnn and Andrea who showed up and surprised me, the marquis at The Foundry and the Book/Resource .

Stopping Fertility Treatments Heavenly Father, as a couple we feel we should discontinue fertility treatments due to or because of _____. We believe when we married, you placed the desire in our hearts to have a .

You're invited to... Having a Heart of Hope - Healing for the Hurt of Infertility Saturday, January 25, 2014 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Foundry United Methodist Church 8350 Jones Road, Houston www.FoundryChurch.org Click Jones Campus and go to Events Foundry United Methodist Church .

A Prayer for the Future “Heavenly Father, I praise You because You have created me and have a perfect plan for my life. I thank You that you desire to prosper me, not to harm me, to give .

Today IS a new day. "...forgetting what lies behind, and straining toward what is ahead." Philippians 3:13

We all know the holiday season can be a stressful time of year. But for the one who is still pursuing growing their family whether through birth or adoption, or who has experienced a recent .

You're Invited! Live in Houston, Texas or surrounding area? The gals of the HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group at Lakewood Church meet for a social twice a year and Christmas is one of those times. It's a .

  When People Say Insensitive Things Yep! It's bound to happen with the holiday season approaching and all it entails. If you are able, for the most part, try to remember most people aren't trying to be .

Fertility Fact Friday Since we are still in November, and since this is National Adoption Awareness Month I thought I'd post a resource on adoption. In my opinion, one of the best Christian resource for adoption .

Holidays Almighty God, it seems as if every time I turn around I am faced with a celebration that involves a baby. I know this holiday season there'll be new babies and new moms-to-be. In my .

Adoption The month of November is National Adoption Awareness month. To honor the month and to encourage those who are in the process of adoption I'm including an Adoption Prayer I've recently written for my book, Dancing .

:: A beautiful poem written by my friend, Joanna Nunez :: Today I should have held you, And wrapped you in my arms. Today I should have heard your cry, A wonderful alarm. Today I should have kissed your neck, And nuzzled .

  Are you needing comfort? Has the imagined identity of becoming a mother left you hurting? Has the grief of a miscarriage, stillbirth or early infant loss kept in you in sorrow? If so, then please come .

Conception “Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

Ideas for Helping those Who are Hurting for Your Place of Worship Infertility Etiquette for Ministry Leaders  

  Along with our regular gathering, HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group we will be holding a special meeting. If you or someone you know has experienced miscarriage, stillbirth or early infant loss then please make plans .

Today's Monday Morning Prayer is a little different than from what I usually post. Whether you're going through infertility, secondary infertility, a miscarriage/stillbirth or a failed adoption attempt I feel the thoughts and scripture from .

Question to Ask When Selecting a Fertility Clinic Helpful Resources from the National Institute of Health www.cdc.gov ________________ These questions will help you learn more about a fertility clinic, its services, and staff.  Procedures and Services What procedures do you currently .

What happens when you cross Dancing Upon Barren Land Ministry and Chik-Fil-A? A Chicken Dance! Come and support a worthy cause by purchasing a meal at Chik-Fil-A THIS WEDNESDAY from 6-10 p.m. *Please tell them your .

News & Events If you are fortunate to live in the Houston, Texas area there a some happenings taking place! Each event is a chance for YOU to get support on your journey and to support .

Waiting “Heavenly Father, waiting is extremely hard, especially when I see so many pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be strong and .

 Empty Crib, Aching Heart A Memorial Service for Miscarried / Stillbirth Infants Saturday, August 24th The service will be held as a session of the Infertility Support Workshop Healing Place Church, Baton Rouge, Louisiana Registration & Info at Sarah's Laughter The grief of .

        I know...Could this logo be any smaller? My bad? Sorry, but it's the only graphic I have! But let me tell ya what this is all about... Infertility Support Workshop Saturday, August 24th, 9-3 pm, Baton Rouge, .

Your Diet I'm sure as you read the words, Your Diet, you probably wanted to delete this post. But wait! Don't do it, keep reading... I chuckle at myself. I'm writing a post and referring a resource .

How many of you have been disappointed by your fertility specialist? As if the infertility journey isn't hard enough, right? I thought I'd post a prayer from another book I found most helpful during my .

Future When our hopes for a baby have been dashed and we are not certain how God will fill our empty arms, here's a prayer to help us along the way. “Heavenly Father, I praise You because .

Miscarriage - Stillbirth - Infant Loss Merciful Father, the loss is heartbreaking. I feel as if I am walking though the valley of the shadow of death and as if I died a little, too. But .

Broken Heart Compassionate Father, my heart is crushed from this infertility battle. My emotions are frazzled. Lord, You said in Your Word You are close to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit. .

When people say insensitive things regarding your fertility issues, doesn't it make you cringe? I'm sure inwardly we are saying, "They literally have no clue! They don't get it!" Which for the most part is .

  "For with God nothing shall be impossible." Luke 1:37 Never give up! I'm still believing, are you?

Vitamin A & Infertility: Women: Vitamin A it keeps the cilia, (the hair like strands aiding mobility) in the fallopian tubes healthy. Men: Vitamin A is necessary for sperm production and production of testosterone. Information provided by www.naturalwomenscare.com. .

FUTURE "Shepherd of my soul, I praise You because You have created me and have a perfect plan for my life. I thank You for Your desire to prosper me, not to harm me, to give .

Vitamins & Fertility Women: Vitamin C and Infertility - a deficiency in Vitamin C during the period of conception and early pregnancy can result in early miscarriage. Men: Vitamin E and Infertility - A January 2011 study .

Today, as Mother's Day is celebrated here in the United States, and perhaps some other parts of the world...I just wanted to let you know... I wish I has some deeply encouraging devotional... I wish I had .

Baby Related Holidays For those who live in the United States, Mother's day is right around the corner. I know how hard it can be. What is one of the most celebrated holidays can be one .

Anger “Heavenly Father, I feel so angry and frustrated about my fertility challenges. I ask for Your divine love to flow through me, for Your love is patient and kind, and not easily angered. Help me to be .

There's a book giveaway over at Pearl Girls today! Click link below, look for The Perfect Window blog post and enter to win! Pearl Girls Today, I have the privilege to have a guest post, The Perfect Window at .

On a Mission! Howdy all! I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying the weekend. It is beautiful here in southeast Texas. However, I'm stuck inside at work, but I've been able to get out and work .

JEALOUSY and ENVY "Loving Father, your word tells me how to love. I know being jealous and envious is not part of Your divine love. Father, I am struggling with envy and jealousy as I see .

Mommies with Hope is a biblically-based support group and website for women who have experienced a loss of a child. This week I've had the privilege of writing a devotional for their Waiting Wednesday Series - .

Fertility Fact Friday _____ Validating Grief  Whether one is going through infertility, or have experienced a miscarriage / stillbirth / failed adoption attempt, it's a fact grief is felt, but seldom validated.  I read it once, "infertility or .

Morning Prayer _______ Recovery from Abortion from Dancing Upon Barren Land ~ Prayer, Scripture Reflection, and Hope for Infertility Book The abortion prayer was added to the book due to the fact many women feel their infertility is a .

GIVEAWAY! My dear friend, Hannah Bunker, and contributing author to Dancing Upon Barren Land is giving away one copy of my newly released book, Dancing Upon Barren Land ~ Prayer, Scripture Reflection, and Hope for Infertility. Only 3 .

For the most part, for Fertility Fact Friday, I usually post a tidbit about health or a new found discovery in the fertility world. However, today, I'm posting on marriage. In fact, a little advice .

Broken Heart “Compassionate Father, my heart is crushed from this infertility battle. My emotions are frazzled. Lord, You said in Your Word you are ‘close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’ .

Support Groups Anyone? If I could take a poll I'd like to ask, "How many of you dealing with infertility/infant loss are attending a support group?" Here's what a Christian infertility support group can provide a safe place .

Hey! I know this is last minute, but this morning I'll be a guest on The Morning Show of Son Broadcasting Network. I'll be answering some questions and discuss my new book, Dancing Upon Barren .

Today, my dear friend, JoAnn and I will be leaving for California to attend the Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference. The conference will be taking place this Saturday at Crossline Community Church in .

  SHAME, GUILT, CONDEMNATION  Father God, I thank You that You have given Your Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross for all my sins, past, present, and future. Father, I draw near to You with a sincere heart .

This is an older post, yet I feel these words are timeless and will speak to your heart today.  Be encouraged. Have a great weekend everyone! Love y’all, Lesli It Still Hurts – Be Real – Just Smile As you .

 Today's Monday Morning Prayer is summed up in a picture. It's Ok to cry.            

Today's Fertility Fact Friday - Apps! Yes, that's right. Mobile apps for infertility and adoption. What a wonderful way to use technology to track your natural cycle, a fertility treatment or have a checklist for .

Lately, in the early morning hours I've been hearing the chirp of the cardinal. Faithful this little feathered friend seems to be. The dawn comes. The singing begins, even in the bleakness of winter. I recall .

The winner of the Giveaway to Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference is... TIFFANIE! Congratulations Tiffanie! ------------- Disappointment “Heavenly Father, it seems as if every month brings about disappointment because I pray for a child and nothing happens! I don’t .

CHOOSE JOY: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference Saturday, February 9, 2013, 11:00 - 6:00 p.m. Laguna Hills, California A one day faith-based conference for women (and husbands) who are dealing with infertility and who are adopting or have .

When People Say Insensitive Things Heavenly Father, why do people say unkind things? I've been hurt by their words and insensitivity. Help me not to be offended, angry or bitter because of what is said. Instead, .

I have a guest post today from Emmy Blakely, the founder of Choose Joy Event: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference. If you or someone you know are experiencing infertility, secondary infertility or seeking adoption then .

HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group Meetings: Lakewood Church Thursday, January 3, 2013 (that's tomorrow!) 3700 Southwest Frwy., Houston, Texas 7:00 p.m., Rm. 4025, 4th Floor [email protected] The Ark Church Tuesday, January 8, 2013 450 Humble Tank Rd., Conroe, Texas (North of The Woodlands) 7 .

Merry Christmas to all of you! Thanks for being a support to the Dancing Upon Barren Land ministry. I hope you  have a fun-filled day opening presents, and celebrating JESUS; the Gift which keeps on .

Baby Related Holidays The prayer below was written for my upcoming book, Dancing Upon Barren Land - Prayer, Scripture Reflections, and Hope for Infertility. The prayer deals with Mother's/Father's Day; baby-related holidays. I have re-written it for the .

Fertility Fact Friday Top 5 Ways to Cope with Infertility Over the Holidays from Fertility Authority http://www.fertilityauthority.com/articles/top-5-ways-cope-infertility-over-holidays

Do you recognize this box? It's an empty fertility meds box. Why would I post a picture of this? This box once held thousands of dollars of self-injectable fertility medicine. Now, it's trash, destined for the recycle bin. This .

Fertility Fact Friday IVF and Sex: How the Treatment Hurts Couples Sex Lives from RESOLVE http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/01/ivf-hurts-women-sex-life_n_2058481.html  

Waiting “Heavenly Father, waiting is extremely hard, especially when I see so many pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be strong and .

Social Outings for HOPE! The holiday season can be rather difficult, so instead of our regularly scheduled meetings at the respective churches, we decided to plan social gatherings for the month of December.  Not to make .

Fertility Fact Friday Environmental Chemicals May Hurt your Chances of Pregnancy from the National Institute of Health http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_131319.html    

Forgotten “Heavenly Father, I praise You that you were pleased to make me Your own and have accepted me in the beloved family of God because of your dear Son, Jesus Christ. Father, these fertility challenges have made .

If you live within the Houston, Texas area please join me and others for HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group  tomorrow November 13th at 7:00 p.m. The Ark Church 450 Humble Tank R. Conroe, Texas (North of Houston) (936) 756-1988 Monday .

Fertility Fact Friday For those of you who have encountered infant loss or infertility I'd like to introduce two resources to you. Small Bird Studios and Still Standing Magazine. Small Bird Studios www.SmallBirdStudios.com Small Bird Studios is a blog written .

Well, it's not that this picture would cause you anger, it's the crazy infertility journey we experience, huh?  This is my friend and contributing author to DUBL, Hannah Bunker. She has a comedic side to .

HOPE SUPPORT GROUP MEETING this Thursday, November 1, 2012 Lakewood Church, Rm. 4025 3700 Southwest Freeway Houston, Texas [email protected] for more info

Howdy all! For the past week the subscriber platform hasn't been sending out the blog posts to your email accounts! So, this is a test to see if it's working.  I hope you are receiving them, .

I'd like to introduce my friend, Beth Forbus and Sarah's Laughter Ministry to you. Beth, is my next door neighbor. Well, not the kind of neighbor who lives right next door but in the neighboring .

This past week has marked Baby Loss Awareness Week here in the U.S. I know infertility is a struggle in itself, but for one who's had trouble conceiving, then experiencing a miscarriage, stillbirth or early infant .

State State Infertility Insurance Laws Here's a list, along with details for insurance coverage for infertility by state. Presently, only eleven out of fifty states have a mandate for infertility coverage. http://www.asrm.org/detail.aspx?id=2850 What about you? What is your story .

Conception “Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

Stopping fertility treatments is, in my opinion, one of the hardest things to do. One often asks the questions, "If I stop fertility treatments how will I ever have a baby?" or "If I stop .

Fertility Drugs & The Risks of Multiple Births Before you take any fertility drugs please read this article from the American Society of Reproductive Medicine regarding the multiple births and fertility drugs. It's important to be .

Age “Heavenly Father, my biological clock is ticking, as if You didn’t know. As each month passes I feel that I am racing against that clock. Even the doctors speak of the impossibility of bearing children at my .

As I mentioned in a previous post, this gal was going "take care of 'moi' and have a lil' R&R".  Well, that I did!  My DH and I traveled from the Lone Star state of .

Wholeness Completeness “Heavenly Father, in your Word you said when you made creation, man and woman, you looked upon them and saw that ‘it was very good.’ Father, my empty womb has caused me to feel bad, like .

This n' That Howdy All! I hope all of you  had a nice Labor Day weekend, for all who live in the States that is!  Here's my brief post for the week of some happenings around the .

Forgotten “Heavenly Father, I praise You that you were pleased to make me Your own and have accepted me in the beloved family of God because of your dear Son, Jesus Christ. Father, these fertility challenges have made .

  Fertility Medicines For most of us on this infertility journey it will involve seeing a specialist, a reproductive endocrinologist. And, for most of us, he/she may prescribe fertility medicines.  Oh joy, Is what I say! As .

Finances “Heavenly Father, You know the path we are to take even before one step. You see how our fertility challenges have brought us to the place of making major financial decisions. Father, give us wisdom regarding our .

HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group Meeting Conroe / The Woodlands, Texas area Tuesday, August 14 at 7:00 p.m. The Ark Church 450 Humble Tank Road Conroe, Texas 77304 for Women Only

Hello everyone, The post to follow was written many years ago. As I would filter through my journal I would highlight  significant moments through my infertility journey. These moments are when God turned my disappointment into .

HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group Meeting Conroe / The Woodlands, Texas area Tuesday, August 14 at 7:00 p.m. The Ark Church 450 Humble Tank Road Conroe, Texas 77304 for Women Only

Difficult Relationships “Heavenly Father, this fertility journey is not easy on my relationship with others. Help me to be silent or to watch what I say, and that no unwholesome word will come out of my mouth, but .

Preserving Fertility during Cancer Fertile Hope's hotline is a LiveSTRONG initiative dedicated to providing reproductive information support and hope to cancer patients and survivors whose medical treatments present the risk of infertility. If you or someone you .

HOPE  CHRISTIAN INFERTILITY SUPPORT GROUP MEETING Thursday, August 2nd, 7 p.m. Lakewood Church, 3700 Southwest Freeway, Houston, Texas Room 4025, 4th floor Open for Women Only Support is important during your journey through infertility. It's hard to make the first step .

Do you like to shop? Then join me at... Mistletoe Market This Saturday, July 21 st 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Houston Chinese Church, 10305 S. Main, Houston (conveniently located at Loop 610 and Main St.)  The Mistletoe Market is a fundraiser for .

Hi everyone! It's Hannah here. I'm so honored to be posting today on Dancing Upon Barren Land! If you're interested in learning more about who I am and why I'm here, you can read more .

You are invited! Tonight (Thursday) at 7:00 p.m. HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group of Lakewood Church is having its annual social. So if you live in Houston, Texas or surrounding area I hope you'll join .

Facing Another Who is Pregnant Faithful God, everywhere I turn I see a pregnant belly.  The very thing I desire is all around me.  Help my eyes to turn upward towards You instead of outward upon .

Hey everybody! I just want you to know i am still here.  I've wanted so much to sit down and write a great devotional post, but this thing called L.I.F.E. is  full to the brim!  With .

Male Sterility “Heavenly Father, your Word says, ‘You formed my inward parts, I am fearfully and wonderfully made in Your image’. You made me male and you gave us the command to ‘be fruitful, to multiply and to .

Fertility Fact Friday Soy "One study, at King's College London, found that a compound in soy called genistein causes a chemical reaction in sperm as they swim in the female reproductive tract, sabotaging their ability to fertilize the .

Fertility Fact Whole Milk Dairy Products "Data collected in Nurses' Health Study--a comprehensive, long-term look at the diet and lifestyle choices of more than 200,000 female nurses--led to the surprising finding that a daily serving or two .

When People Say Insensitive Things Heavenly Father, I’ve been hurt by the words of others and their insensitivity. Help me not to be offended, angry or bitter by what has been said, but help me to .

Broken Heart Compassionate Father, my heart is crushed from this infertility battle.  My emotions are frazzled. Lord, You said in Your Word You are ‘close to the brokenhearted and saved those who are crushed in spirit.’ .

Last night I was in one of two comfy chairs at Starbucks, coffee in one hand and a pen in another jotting down notes for this post and researching the history of Mother’s Day. The .

Mother’s Day is quickly approaching, ready to pounce on the fragile emotions of every infertile woman in the world. We are doomed for a day of being excluded from dozens of rituals: Mother’s day presents, .

When People Say Insensitive Things "Heavenly Father, I’ve been hurt by the words of others and their insensitivity. Help me not to be offended, angry or bitter by what has been said, but help me to .

Late last year a rather unassuming red-headed young lady attended HOPE, the Christian Infertility Support Group at Lakewood Church.  She was rather quiet at first, yet it didn’t surprise me, most of the gals attending .

This week, April 22-29th marks National Infertility Awareness Week here in the U.S.  The theme from Resolve, the nation's infertility association is Don't Ignore.  I love the theme, it resonates with us doesn't it? Infertility .

CONCEPTION “Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

photo credit: hannahbunker.com HOPE Hearts Of Promise & Expectation for Women Christian Infertility Support Group Meeting Tuesday, April 10 th, 7:00 p.m. The Ark Church 450 Humble Tank Rd. Conroe, Texas 77304 936-756-1988 HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group is open to any who are .

You might ask, "Unanswered Prayer? What's with a title like that?" Well, all I can say is "Don't you ever feel this way?" I know I do from time to time.  After repeated petitions and requests .

One of the reasons I love about having an online ministry or blog is the connection to people all over the world; especially women.  Last week, Yvette Rautenbach from Triune Echo, a gospel music group .

Miscarriage ~ Infant Loss “Heavenly Father, the loss is heartbreaking. I feel as if I am walking through the valley of the shadow of death, but your Word tells me ‘to fear no evil, for You are with .

Anxious “Heavenly Father, a feeling of anxiousness has come over me. At times my mind is racing and my heart beats fast. Father, help me to do as You say in Your Word, that ‘in prayer .

Lakewood Church's HOPE - Christian Support Group will meet Thursday, March 1st. (Tomorrow) If you or someone you know is experiencing infertility, secondary infertility, miscarriages, failed adoption attempts please join us.  We're beginning a new workbook .

Waiting “Heavenly Father, waiting is extremely hard, especially when I see so many pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be strong and .

Decisions “Heavenly Father, I thank You that You have the perfect plan to bring about a family in my life. Father, I am faced with so many decisions, the decision to _________________ ___________________ . I ask You to .

Starting this week in the Houston, Texas area, the  Christian Infertility Support Groups will be meeting. We've added a new group for those who live on the north side of Houston.  Please check the info .

Happy New Year to you!  I hope and pray your holiday  went well.  Mine was simple and pretty much laid back, which was nice, except the week before Christmas I contacted bronchitis and pink-eye! Boy, .

For those of you who are on the subscriber list my apologies if you are receiving multiple email's.  I don't know what the technical problem is. So 'thanks' for your patience. I am in transition .

Stress & Infertility Helpful information from the American Society of Reproductive Medicine What can I do to reduce my stress? • Talk to your partner. • Realize you're not alone. Talk to other people who have infertility, through individual or .

Continuing in this weeks posts about marriage and infertility, here's a good one! A few years back I taught a lesson titled 'Reproductive Cycle vs. Relationship'.  Below is the handout from the lesson with tidbits .

I know, what you've always wanted to see! A picture of me on our wedding day, right? {smiles}. I dare not say the year we were married, you just might find out how old I .

HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group of Lakewood Church TONIGHT @ 7:00 p.m.! If you live in the Houston, Texas area I'd like to personally invite you to the support group meeting.  It is for women only and .

This past July I attended CLASS seminar in San, Antonio, Texas. CLASS, is an acronym for Christian Leaders Authors & Speakers Services. www.classeminars.org For over the last year, I’ve been writing, working with an editor .

FROZEN EMBRYOS For some of us the fertility journey God has us on may include pursuing fertility treatments. One of the fertility treatments suggested to some patients is in vitro fertilization. IVF, as it is popularly .

Wholeness Completeness “Heavenly Father, in your Word you said when you made creation, man and woman, you looked upon them and saw that ‘it was very good.’ Father, my empty womb has caused me to feel bad, like .

Disappointment “Heavenly Father, it seems as if every month brings about disappointment because I pray for a child and nothing happens! I don’t understand why I have to suffer like this! But in your Word You say that .

Federal Adoption Tax Credit Update For families considering adoption, finances can be a major issue.  The National council for Adoption has a great, detailed description explaining the current status of the federal adoption tax credit.  One .

Conception “Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

Below is a link to an article titled, "Rules Help When Talking About Infertility" from Medline Plus, a service of the National Institute for Health. We can testify communication is the key to any marriage. .

“Heavenly Father, as I await these test results I choose to cast down every imagination; fear, anxiety and worry; bringing them into the captivity of Christ. I thank you that I have no need to fear bad .

“Heavenly Father, your Word tells me how to love and being envious and jealous is not part of your divine love. Father, I am struggling with envy and jealousy as I see pregnant women and hear of .

If you live in the Houston, Texas area you are invited to HOPE; Hearts Of Promise & Expectation for Women, a Christian Infertility Support Group.  Come and receive the love of God and encouragement from .

the beautiful sunset. I'm sailing away,  leaving my heavy burdens on shore and floating out to sea. What about you?  Maybe you're not set to board a cruise ship and sail, but are you leaving your .

I am posting a past devotional I wrote in the springtime of April 2010. Even though it is not freshly written, it's still ‘An oldie, but goodie!’ as they say. I am still trying to .

Male Sterility “Heavenly Father, your Word says, ‘You formed my inward parts, I am fearfully and wonderfully made in Your image’. You made me male and you gave us the command to ‘be fruitful, to multiply and to .

In November of last year my husband and I took a well-needed and deserved break.  We visited our dear friends and children on their farm in Idaho. I've been privileged to travel many states in .

Four years ago I was speaking at Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference in California. I sat a table with a gentle, quiet man and a bright-eyed tender hearted beauty named, Christy Neuman. We .

A Christmas Reflection a guest post by Kristin B. Meyer, LMSW of Bethany Christian Services__________ There’s no denying that it’s hard to be infertile around the holidays. Most of us know this full well—the general spirit of joy .

Hearing God's Voiceby Roxanne Knott of Grace Filled Waitingwww.GraceFilledWaiting.com When we are in the midst of the chaos of life and infertility issues it can be very difficult to hear God's voice clearly and discern His .

Infertility is a hard road to walk on. Walking it alone is even harder. When I was going through the throws of my infertility journey -- years ago-- there wasn't much to pick from. Very .

Save the date! June 23, 2015  6 - 7 p.m. CST for the Webinar Keeping Your Sanity While Trying to Conceive This is my friend, Aaron Bunker. He is the husband of my very good friend, Hannah Bunker, writer .

Before posting this prayer I just want to let you know 'I am sorry' for your loss. Whether you've lost a baby at 6 weeks gestation or the 1st week of life, I feel for .

At the end of last year I received a very kind email from a pastor asking me to consider reading a manuscript and providing an endorsement for his upcoming book. His name is Matt Appling. .

Fertility Fact Friday______“Hey Doc! how much is it?” As I was in the doctor’s office yesterday awaiting a pelvic ultrasound I was scrolling through Pinterest on my phone. I came across a pin from an article .

#Giving Tuesday We have a day of giving thanks. We have two days for getting deals. Now, we have #GivingTuesday, a global day dedicated to giving back to charities, families, businesses, community centers etc. So all .

rem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and .

rem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and .

This week marks National Infertility Awareness Week. Help spread the word about infertility awareness to others. Resolve is the national infertility organization here in the United States. They've provided helpful tips on 25 Things To .

Howdy all! That’s how we greet one another here in Texas, however, this post isn’t about Texas, this blog post is a test. I’m having some issue with my email campaign which sends you lovely .

This week marks National Infertility Awareness Week. Help spread the word about infertility awareness to others. Resolve is the national infertility organization here in the United States. They’ve provided helpful tips on 25 Things To .

Prayer: “Heavenly Father, I praise You that you were pleased to make me Your own and have accepted me in the beloved family of God because of your dear Son, Jesus Christ. Father, these fertility .

We all know the holiday season can be a stressful time of year. But for the one who is still pursuing growing their family whether through birth or adoption, or who has experienced a recent .

Stopping Fertility Treatments Heavenly Father, as a couple we feel we should discontinue fertility treatments due to or because of _____. We believe when we married, you placed the desire in our hearts to have .

You’re invited to… Having a Heart of Hope – Healing for the Hurt of Infertility Saturday, January 25, 2014 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Foundry United Methodist Church 8350 Jones Road, Houston www.FoundryChurch.org Click Jones Campus. Lorem .

Hi everyone! It's Hannah Bunker here. It's been a while since I've written a blog post for Dancing Upon Barren Land. Since November is National Adoption Awareness, Lesli asked if I wanted to write up a .

Just a reminder about this week’s HOPE Infertility Support Group at Lakewood Church! Lakewood Church Thursday, June 6, 2013 3700 Southwest Frwy., Houston, Texas 7:00 p.m., Rm. 4025, 4th Floor [email protected] ***** “Let’s take a vacation.” I said to Aaron from the .

If you live in the Houston, Texas area I'd like to invite you to two upcoming events. Walk of HOPE This Saturday May 18th Registration at 8 a.m., Walk begins at 9 a.m. in Houston at the Bayou .

Just a reminder about this week's HOPE Infertility Support Group at Lakewood Church! I can't believe it's already May! Lakewood Church Thursday, May 2, 2013 3700 Southwest Frwy., Houston, Texas 7:00 p.m., Rm. 4025, 4th Floor [email protected] ***** Hi everyone. It's Hannah .

Hi everyone! It's Hannah here today. I'm usually over on hannahbunker.com, but I'm also contributing writer here on Dancing Upon Barren Land which you can read all about in this post. Every time I get .

I'll be posting the free giveaway to Choose Joy: Surviving Infertility & Adoption Conference held in Laguna Hills, California, Saturday, February 9, 2013 very soon! One ticket will given away to the fortunate winner! Stay tuned! Keep .

Hi everyone. It's Hannah here, the "young'un" you see in the photo above and contributing writer here on Dancing Upon Barren Land. I hope this December 1st finds you well. I can't believe it's already .

Live in the Houston, Texas area? Then plan to attend HOPE! HOPE is an acronym for Hearts Of Promise & Expectation for Women A Spiritual Support Group for Infertility _______________________ Lakewood Church Thursday, October 4, 2012, 7:00 p.m. 3700 Southwest Freeway, Houston 4th .

Hello everyone. I’m Hannah, contributing author, and it’s always such an honor to be able to minster to you all here on Dancing Upon Barren Land. To read more about who I am and why .

Hello everyone. I'm Hannah, contributing author, and it's always such an honor to be able to minster to you all here on Dancing Upon Barren Land. To read more about who I am and why .

Hi Everyone, I must say it's a rarity in the 'infertility' world to hear a man's point of view or how he feels in trying to grow his family.  This post is from Aaron Bunker. He .

RAINBOW? "I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth." Genesis 9:13  This week marks our annual YARDflag sale. Where my husband and I make .

Baby Related Holidays Baby Showers/Dedications/Christening/Mother’s/Father’s Day Almighty God, it seems as if every time I turn around I am faced with a celebration involving a baby.  In my heart I don’t want to be jealous, angry or .

Wholeness and Completeness “Heavenly Father, in your Word you said when you made creation, man and woman, you looked upon them and saw that ‘it was very good.’ Father, my empty womb has caused me to feel bad, .

Hannah Bunker, contributing author to Dancing Upon Barren Land also writes for HOPE, Hearts Of Promise & Expectation Christian Infertility Support Group.([email protected]) She takes copious notes, summarizes the lesson taught during the support group and .

For some reading this post, yesterday, Mother's day, was a day you enjoyed celebrating because you've been blessed with a child.  Yet after the closing of the day, some of you still find an aching, .

photo by Larry Westfall This week is National Infertility Awareness Week. The theme from Resolve, the national infertility organization is “Don’t Ignore” bringing about awareness of infertility and the millions affected by it. As I reflected .

Today's prayer for infertility... Future “Heavenly Father, I praise You because You have created me and have a perfect plan for my life. I thank You that you desire to prosper me, not to harm me, to give me .

Waiting “Heavenly Father, waiting is extremely hard, especially when I see so many pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be strong and .

Fear “Heavenly Father, as I seek You, You said that ‘You would answer me and deliver me from all my fears.’ I praise You that You are with me, that I have no need to feel discouraged or .

Scrubbing through some old notes I had, I came across this, Waiting Does Not Diminish Us. Even though it's not a particular 'fact' regarding any fertility issues we're facing, I believe we all face the .

Book Review Recently, I have been contacted by authors to review their newly published books written about infertility and adoption. One thing I love about having this online ministry is how it connects you to others. .

**My apology if you are a subscriber and are receiving multiple e-mails from Dancing Upon Barren Land Ministry.  I've had difficulty with my webmail and web service.  Thank you for your patience. I'd appreciate your .

“Heavenly Father, I praise You that you were pleased to make me Your own and have accepted me in the beloved family of God because of your dear Son, Jesus Christ. Father, these fertility challenges have made .

Well, what does chocolate and support groups have in common?  Both bring comfort. A perfect fit. Well, at least in my opinion. Except there is no comparison to the Holy Spirit, the best Comforter.  (John .

Howdy to all! My apology for not posting more here. Some days it is just hard to get motivated. Is it because I have had a less 'dramatic' week compared to this whole year or .

When Your Doctor Disappoints You from Longing for a Child, Kathe Wunnenberg Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.  Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with .

a recent article from the mayoclinic.com Question: Fertility herbs: Do they enhance fertility? My husband and I have been trying unsuccessfully for more than a year to get pregnant. I've seen many ads for fertility herbs and .

Difficult Relationships “Heavenly Father, this fertility journey is not easy on my relationship with others. Help me to be silent or to watch what I say, and that no unwholesome word will come out of my mouth, but .

WHEN YOU FACE A MEDICAL PROCEDURE He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. Psalm 91:4 For he will command his angels .

Christian Resources for Infertility Have you checked the Resource page on the website? Provided are a multitude of resources, both books and support organizations listed by topic.  Please avail yourself and search out a resource for .

Information from the Mayo Clinic on Intrauterine Insemination, IUI (Artificial Insemination). Click link below: http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/intrauterine-insemination/MY00104/METHOD=print&DSECTION=all

Below is some info for a new Christian support group beginning in Kansas.  If you live nearby, place avail yourself to this opportunity of God's love and support from others. L. I. F. E. Living with Infertility .

FUTURE “Heavenly Father, I praise You because You have created me and have a perfect plan for my life. I thank You that you desire to prosper me, not to harm me, to give me hope and a .

Today I'd like to continue what I began a couple of weeks ago.  Introducing you to My Hopeful Journey's Infertility Tracking Simpl-IFied.  Here's a message from Lisa of My Hopeful Journey. "If a picture is worth .

Howdy! I thought I'd just sit down and start to write. No scripted prose or edit here. Just a heart-to-heart post. I know it's been awhile since I've posted, all for a good reason though. I pray .

Finally! Fertility Fact Friday is back! I realize it's been awhile since I've posted in this category. L.I.F.E. happens! This week and in the forthcoming weeks I've invited Lisa from My Hopeful Journey to write about her .

FUTURE “Heavenly Father, I praise You because You have created me and have a perfect plan for my life. I thank You that you desire to prosper me, not to harm me, to give me hope and a .

Last year we were asked by a pair of our good friends if we wanted to go on an Alaskan cruise with them and celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. I must say I didn’t jump .

DIRECTION “Heavenly Father, I ask that You will fulfill Your purpose for my life, my desire for children. Help me not to lean upon my own understanding or to rationalize the thoughts in my head. When there is .

Legacy. You may think, "That doesn't apply to me, I have no children to pass on a legacy to." But that is far from the truth. Read on! If you've subscribed to the devotional posts  or frequent this .

When my nephew Travis was about 3 or 4, he would get a pair of new shoes and in his husky little voice would say, "Look Aunt Lesli, new shoes!"  Any time he would receive .

All across the United States there are three words spoken to celebrate this day, “Happy Mother’s Day!” a day where we honor and recognize our mother’s. This day a double-edged dagger comes close to my heart. I .

Please join me this Thursday, May 5 at 7:00 p.m. for H.O.P.E.,  Lakewood Church's Infertility Support Group. The meeting will be held at the Church on the 2nd floor in the New Beginnings Room.  If .

GRIEF “Heavenly Father, God of compassion, I praise you that You are the God of all comfort. I ask you to remove this burden of grief from my heart for I believe that You care for me. Thank .

For the one going through infertility, you probably have heard comments/suggestions/opinions from others you didn't need or want to hear. It is hard to ignore.  How do you respond?  Below here are some helpful hints. For .

DIRECTION “Heavenly Father, I ask that You will fulfill Your purpose for my life, my desire for children. Help me not to lean upon my own understanding or to rationalize the thoughts in my head. When there is .

Infertility Awareness Week April 24 - 30, 2011 Most of you may know Infertility Awareness Week is approaching later on this month.  I wanted to pass on some events which are happening around the country during .

HEALING “Heavenly Father, I thank You that You sent your Son, Jesus Christ to die on the cross for me. Your Son dying was not in vain, but proved great benefits for me – the forgiveness of all .

Hi there! For those of you who are subscribers or those who frequent the website, you may be wondering why I have not sent out or posted a Monday Morning Prayer, Fertility Fact Friday or Devotional. .

It has been awhile since I have posted a 'Fertility Fact Friday', huh?  Lately, I've been keeping watch on RESOLVE  the United States leading National Infertility Association.  With Infertility Awareness week coming up April 24 .

Conception “Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

I was hoping to post Monday Morning Prayer yesterday, but my internet services were down.  Prayer is for any time and day, right?  May God bless you with peace in your mind, body and in .

This past week was the HOPE Christian Infertility Support Group meeting at Lakewood Church.  As I was getting ready for the meeting it dawned on me it was HOPE's 4th birthday, AND we needed a .

Test Results “Heavenly Father, as I await these test results I choose to cast down every imagination; fear, anxiety and worry; bringing them into the captivity of Christ. I thank you that I have no need to fear .

Christian Infertility Support Group for Women Meets this coming Thursday, March 3rd 7:00 p.m. ____ Lakewood Church 3700 Southwest Freeway Houston ____ Open to all women, city-wide who have experienced any form of infertility.

Last year, our support group, HOPE, Hearts Of Promise & Expectation for Women at Lakewood Church went through a series on ‘Having a Heart of HOPE’.  We discussed the common psychological reactions encountered by couples .

I don't know about you, but I am needing direction for my life.  I know I recently posted this prayer but believe it is prayer  we could pray every day!  We all need direction, huh? .

Decisions “Heavenly Father, I thank You that You have the perfect plan to bring about a family in my life. Father, I am faced with so many decisions, the decision to _________________. I ask You to instruct me .

Thought I'd post this interesting article written this past week on infertility from the Huffington Post. Understandably there needs to be an awareness about infertility in our society and advocates who will speak up for .

I wrote this as a letter to my friends many years ago.  Recently as I was cleaning out some files, I discovered it.  Thought I'd share it with you. The content doesn't necessarily deal with .

Needing someone to talk to about infertility?  Would you like to meet others going through what you are going through?  If so, I' join with other women from HOPE, Lakewood Church's Infertility Support Group. This Saturday, .

Thanks for visiting the website today.  I pray you'll find just what you are looking for, whether it's a resource or comfort from the Lord on your fertility journey.  I just wanted to make notice .

Male Sterility Contrary to much belief, the inability to produce not only affects females but males as well.  The term for males is sterility. Below is a resource for you or your partner who may have .

Test Results “Heavenly Father, as I await these test results I choose to cast down every imagination; fear, anxiety and worry; bringing them into the captivity of Christ. I thank you that I have no need to fear .

How many of you love  birds?  Well, I must say I do!  I love birds, nest, eggs, feathers, any and all things dealing with birds. One of my most favorite birds is the Cardinal, better .

For those of you who live in the United States and are considering adoption the government has extended the Adoption Tax Credit.  Click the link below for further information. Adoption Tax Credit http://www.resolve.org/family-building-options/insurance_coverage/federal-laws.html

When You Feel Alone or Misunderstood The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8 Though my .

It's Fertility Fact Friday again! This is the last installment for Infertility Etiquette.  When creating the Infertility Etiquette page for the website I felt it was important to list some suggestions on how you and .

Here in the States, we have these chocolate coated candies called, "M&M's" (I'm not sure if they have them internationally). Anyway, they are a sweet treat!  Today, I'd like to give you an M&M, but .

Jealousy & Envy “Heavenly Father, your Word tells me how to love and being envious and jealous is not part of your divine love. Father, I am struggling with envy and jealousy as I see pregnant women and .

Today is our last topic for Infertility Etiquette: Miscarriage or Stillbirth.  First of all, if you've lost a baby thru either I want to say I'm sorry and empathize with you.  I am praying specifically .

On New Year's Eve, one of my best buds and I were at Crave Cupcakes in Houston.  Obviously the picture above was my cupcake!  I ask you this question, "Is there any other flavor but .

For those living in Houston, Texas and surrounding areas I invite you to HOPE!  A Christian Infertility Support Group for women who are struggling with infertility, secondary infertility, miscarriages or failed adoption attempts.  We aim .

Remember the movie in the '90's called Ground Hog Day, with comedian Chevy Chase?  You might recall he repeated the same things every day, over and over?  Well, I am repeating Monday Morning's Prayer from .

Begin the New Year reflecting on these encouraging Bible verses chosen to inspire a fresh new walk with God and a deeper commitment to living the Christian faith. New Birth - A Living Hope 1 Peter 1:3 .

Infertility Etiquette for Family & Friends Today the series continues on Infertility Etiquette, specifically for family and friends.  I hope you've enjoyed the previous infertility etiquette posts.  The intentions of friends and family, for the most .

The other day I posted a comment on Facebook, "Don't Look Back". That phrase has been rummaging around in my mind for several days now. Recently, my sweet husband gave me a ticket/parking pass, compliments of .

Future With the New Year just around the corner, I figured a prayer for the future would be most appropriate. My prayer is you'll be fruitful in all areas of your life!  I want to encourage .

Conception “Heavenly Father, thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You! I desire faith like Abraham, believing that ‘You exist and that You are a rewarder of those who diligently seek You’. You said, ‘I .

Today we will continue on the  infertility etiquette topic, specifically etiquette for ministry/spiritual leaders.  Consider sharing this post or print out the information and give to your pastor or women's ministry leader.  Statistically with 1 .

The Lord's Prayer Matthew 6:9-13 Today's Monday Morning Prayer is simply 'The Lord's Prayer' found in the gospel of Matthew. At times we tend to get consumed in asking God to move His hand in a certain .

At the beginning of last year this Devotional page was created. Even though I don't enjoy the journey of infertility, I do enjoy writing and sharing my experiences of how God has met me .

Infertility Etiquette for Doctors For each week in the month of December for Fertility Fact Friday's there will be a posting for etiquette. Etiquette is one of my passions, the proper, polite way of interacting with .

When You Face Holiday/Family Gatherings “Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34a "Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness .

Sometimes for those of us going through infertility people just say the wrong things don't they?  Adding more hurt to this difficult journey. For the most part, their intentions are good, but still, it is .

If you live in Houston, Texas or the surrounding area I 'd like to personally invite you to H.O.P.E.  A Christian infertility support group for women struggling with infertility, secondary infertility, miscarriages or failed adoption .

FINANCES “Heavenly Father, You know the path we are to take even before one step. You see how our fertility challenges have brought us to the place of making major financial decisions. .

My husband and I took a short, well-needed break last week. We flew to Idaho, explored some beauty of the state and stayed with some great friends! We left for our trip very early .

November marks the National Adoption month here in the United States. Today's Fertility Facts include some resources and support organization providing adoption information. I hope you'll pass this on to someone who is .

WORRY Today, instead of giving you a written prayer, I thought I’d pass along this article I found on ‘worry’. I believe at one time or another we all have ‘worried’ .

DIRECTION “Heavenly Father, I ask that You will fulfill Your purpose for my life, my desire for children. Help me not to lean upon my own understanding or to rationalize the thoughts in .

As you can tell by the title of this post I couldn’t figure out which one to choose, so I decided to use all three. When one desires children/struggling with infertility you never know .

SHAME GUILT CONDEMNATION “Heavenly Father, I thank You that You have given your Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the Cross for all my sins; past, present and .

Well, if you read the recent Fertility Fact Friday then you will gather why I posted those particular acronyms. For the devotional below, I have transposed the medical acronyms into spiritual acronyms. I .

Listed below are a few medical acronyms used in the infertility world. Upon initial testing your doctor will screen you for various hormones. Remember your regular obstetrician/gynecologist has only about 6 .

WAITING “Heavenly Father, waiting is extremely hard, especially when I see so many pregnant women and little children. As I wait on the desire of my heart, help me to delight myself in You, to be .

"Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you."Jeremiah 1:5Today, here in the States, October 15th is declared Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day. For those of you who have lost children whether it .

"Some wandered in the wilderness in a solitary desert track; they found no city for habitation.Hungry and thirsty, they fainted; their lives were near to being extinguished.Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, .

Favor"God looks on me with favor, makes my life fruitful and increases me."Leviticus 26:9"The Lord is with me and shows me mercy, and He gives me favor."Genesis 39:21"Give your servant success today by granting me .

For this Fertility Fact Friday we'll continue to look at how to honor God through the infertility process. These questions are taken from the book, Hannah's Hope by Jennifer Saake. A great resource .

Waiting to be Expecting - A devotional to draw you near to God, expanding your joy as you wait to be expecting. Utilizing a creative way to search your soul by using the acronyms from .

For those of you who live in Houston, Texas or surrounding areas I personally invite you to H.O.P.E., Hearts Of Promise & Expectation for Women, tonight (thursday, Oct. 7) at 7 p.m. at Lakewood Church.If .

My friends April & Heath, with newborn baby boy, Preston Finally! I've come up to date in technology! My most recent purchase was an iPhone 4. Lot's of fun, yet .

False .

As much as I Iove to write, (or try to) or find enjoyment reading a good book, where the words are so eloquently strung together, there is just something about a photograph! I thought .

Monday Morning Prayer~AGE~Well, today is my birthday! As you can see from the picture I started eating my birthday cake! No need for a knife to cut a slice, just a fork! .

For the next couple of Fertility Fact Friday’s we will address the question, “Am I honoring God in the infertility process?” These questions are taken from the book, Hannah’s Hope by .

In my experience leading an infertility support group, I come across many women who have some element of shame or guilt from the inability to conceive. Also, many of these women fight condemnation not .

"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge..." Hosea 4:6It's not enough to pray and ask God for a child. You have to be proactive in learning how your body works and taking care of .

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions!A Prayer for you: DECISIONS “Heavenly Father, I thank You that You have the perfect plan to bring about a family in my life. Father, I am faced with so .

One day last summer, I was asked by my dear friend, JoAnn to babysit all four of her boys, seven years and younger. Yikes! Seriously though, it went well and I .

Is infertility just a woman’s issue? · There is a misnomer referring to infertility as a female related problem, yet that is further from the truth. .

Happy Labor Day for all who live in the States! I hope you truly have a day of rest, fun and relaxation, no work or stress today! Thankful for Jesus Christ who did .

Do you live in Texas? In the cities of Amarillo or Houston? There are two Christian Infertility Support Groups meeting this week!Amarillo - Hillside Christian ChurchFor women struggling with infertility or miscarriage. Meets .

Tears. Those tiny drops of humanity. Those round, wet balls of fluid that tumble from our eyes, creep down our cheeks, and splash on the floor of our hearts. .

My hopes were to start posting “Fertility Fact Friday” but my energy, focus and time has been elsewhere, tending to the needs of my parents. I guess it does not matter when you blog .

This morning's prayer topic is grief. Yes, I know, it is not a light-hearted topic for a Monday morning. However, whether your longing for a child, experienced the monthly disappointment of negative pregnancy tests, a .

Howdy!My apologies for being 'out of the loop' and not posting anything for awhile. My sweet father has been in critical care for two weeks, so my time and energy have been divided. .

Waitby Russell KelferDesperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried.Quietly, patiently, lovingly, He replied.I pleaded, and I wept for a clue to my fate,And the Master so gently said, "Child, you must wait.""Wait? You say wait?" my indignant .

Monday Morning Prayer Starting today and every Monday morning I’ll be posting a prayer for the day or week! I’m a firm believer in prayer, believing it helps to build our .

Your invited! If you live in Houston, Texas or the surrounding area I'd like to personally invite you to HOPE, a Christian Infertility Support Group meeting this evening! HOPE brings spiritual support to women .

There is nothing like good news! I am sure all of you would agree with me on that! Yesterday, I received some good news!Most of you know, but for those of who you .

If you have come over for a visit via Kelly's Korner blog, Welcome! I sure appreciate this gracious Arkansas gal and how she uses her influence to allow others to share 'good things'! www.kellyskornerblog.com. .

Colored DOTS on a Line As I write this post, my eyes are misty with tears. One year ago today, I lost my precious sister-in-law and friend, Dana to breast .

This past weekend was fun! We celebrated my father-in-law’s birthday! I love having people over, cooking and entertaining, especially when it’s my family. There was an abundance of silly-ness, .

"A woman wakes up and discovers she has only three hairs left, and she says, "Great, I'll braid them!" The second morning, she wakes up and sees that she has only two hairs, and .

I’m in Beth Moore’s Summer Siesta’s Bible Study along with my close girlfriends. However, I call them PeeP’s instead of Siesta’s. Any of you out there doing the study as well? .

Waiting to be Expecting: A Future Site: "Howdy there! I'm not sure what brought you to this blog today; maybe you're having infertility issues, waiting to adopt, suffering through..."

Howdy there! I'm not sure what brought you to this blog today; maybe you're having infertility issues, waiting to adopt, suffering through multiple miscarriages or a loss, or you're just plain...waiting. Whatever the .