Wednesday, October 21, 2009

WIP Wednesday: My latest WIP

Before I get into the WIP details, I'd like to tell you a story - it's kinda long, but I hope you'll stick with it, because there's a good payoff at the end. Or at least I think there is.

Once upon a time there was a Girl. This Girl had decided that she really wasn't that keen to have babies (when the time was right) - she thought she was too selfish, and also squeamish, for that. And that she was too short-tempered and impatient to be a good mother.

Anyway, one day the Girl met a Boy, and eventually they decided to get married. They talked about babies beforehand, and the Girl, who was a bit more mature by then, decided that it was a good idea to have babies, but not right away (the Boy agreed with that!).

In late 2004, about 5 years after the Girl and the Boy got married, the Girl's father became gravely ill. As is common with serious illnesses, it made the Couple realise that they shouldn't wait any longer to take the important step of having a family.

Fast forward to 2006. The Couple still do not have a family. They decide it is time to seek out some assistance. At around the same time, the Girl meets another girl who is in a similar situation, and who is also a knitter (knitters are the best!). These two Girls become firm friends, even though they live in separate cities, although thankfully in the same country!

After 6 months on basic drugs, the Couple start full IVF treatment. Their first embryo is transferred on the Girl's father's birthday. But it doesn't work. Neither do any of the other 7 IVF transfers performed over the course of the next 2.5 years.

If you haven't done IVF, the Girl (and her friend) can tell you that it is hard, that it is heartbreaking, that it involves many many needles, many bloodtests, many ultrasounds (and no, they are not performed externally!), many hormone drug induced moodswings, and many disappointments. But despite all this, the Couple persevered through the treatments, as they thought it was their best chance of achieving the family they so now very much desired. The friendship of the other girl was invaluable support to the Girl during this time. Only someone going through the IVF lottery really knows how it feels and what to say and what not to say (example of what to say: "Oh, that sucks, I'm really sorry you have to go through this, I hope it works for you"; examples of what not to say: "Oh, you just need to relax, and then it will all happen"; or "I KNOW it will happen for you" - no you don't! If my specialist fertility doctor doesn't, then you sure as heck don't!).

When the last transfer didn't work, the Couple decided that was it. They weren't going to spend any more time (or money) on IVF. If it didn't work after 8 times, it wasn't going to.

If the story ended here, then the moral would clearly be "be careful what you wish for". But this isn't the end of the story.

As the Girl headed towards acceptance of the fact that she would never carry her own baby, and the Couple had initiated adoption processes (itself no easy feat and also no guarantee of a family), the Girl noticed something weird. She felt like she was about to have her monthly cycle, but it didn't happen. For days. So she found an out of date pregnancy test in the back of her cupboard, and she thought, "what the hell, I'll take it".

And she did. And it was positive. But it was expired - it might be wrong! So she bought another test (well, 2, because they come 2 to a box). And she took the next test. And it was positive! And the next day, before a blood test to confirm, she took the 3rd test. Yep, it was positive too! And all confirmed by the blood test.

In a state of disbelief, the Couple somehow passed the couple of weeks until an early ultrasound, where they could see the little blob and most importantly, hear the little heartbeat. Still almost fearing to believe it was real, the Girl started making arrangements for doctors and hospitals (because you have to book so early!! OMG). And managed to pass the time (sans morning sickness - hurrah!) until her 12 week scan, which was all good. The Girl slept really well that night.

And here's a picture of the 12 week blob. The head is on the right, with the right arm over the head, and the spine is the white line along the bottom. The legs are crossed (most modestly!) over the body.

So that's my latest WIP. Because of course, the Girl is me.

93 comments:

Bells said...

it's amazing. a miracle. There he/she is. What to knit???? Such a cute little blob!

Sam said...

oh wow! That is the most amazing and wonderful news! Huge congratulations!

Belinda said...

Congratulations :)

Shazmina Bendi said...

SQUEAL! & WEEEEE HEEEEEE! Bump looks just like you!!! :)

I love that type of WIP! And I am so happy you shared the news, it came in a week where I had some bad news and it just really made my day! I even did a happy dance!

ps what do you get a knitter as a baby shower present?? Oh the stress of it!

mooncalf said...

Wow!

She might have her legs crossed but I'll be keeping EVERYTHING crossed for all of you for the next 6 months.

Well, except while knitting...

Tracy said...

Congratulations :D What a beautiful story.

Kris said...

Loved the story. Congratulations again!

Snoozen said...

Overwhelmed so close but didn't know all this was happening and didn't dear ask ever if you two were going to have kids as I hated people asking me.

Anyhow very excited enjoy the specialness it is truly a magical time for you both.

MadMad said...

Definitely your best WIP! Great story! Congratulations! I am so out of my mind thrilled, and can't wait to see him or her "off the needles" too! YAY!

kgirlknits said...

this is just the most awesome news ever :D

I am so excited and happy for you, and am (of course) planning the knitting as we speak!

congratulations to you and Husby x

Sue said...

Oh my goodness I had tears in my eyes at the end of the story in happiness for you and your hubby. Maybe having its legs crossed means it might be a girl, being a polite little lady you know, and you may have to share those red shoes one day. Congratulations to you both and just imagine all the gorgeous baby clothes you can knit for the wee one!

m1k1 said...

I am so happy for you.
xxx

Anonymous said...

After a nasty aggressive day, it was lovely to read such a warming story. Congratulations, and may your baby be covered in hand knits.

I'm also impressed that you have any energy to blog!

missfee said...

SQEEEEEEE
and I am crying(again) so happy for the Boy and Girl
and the small to be knit for person I can't wait to meet

Lexy said...

Wow. You're right - brilliant payoff at the end of that story. So beautifully told and so exciting. Congratulations.

Unknown said...

I read this twice - the first time was too rushed.

Oh so happy for you two (three even).

There are less drastic ways of ensuring you didn't have to go back to the ofice - but this one's worked a treat for you!

Going to be a well dressed baby..

Donna said...

Oh my god, I think I'm going to cry!! Congratulations! xx

Unknown said...

And forgot to say - congratulations! Just the best news ever.

Suse said...

Oh what a lovely lovely story.

Congratulations to all three of you :)

Anonymous said...

Fank Gawd for this post. Thought I was going to burst if it was kept secret for much longer.

I'm sure I see you know whats...;)

mwah

Lauren said...

*tears up a lot*
I hope everything goes smoothly :)
congratulations <3

amy said...

I am so, so happy. What wonderful news. I squealed so loud... and jumped and clapped, and then the baby clapped, too. :) Make sure you tell us what you're knitting, so we don't duplicate. xoxo

Kat said...

I just found your blog via Kg Knits. I just read your story and I just wanted to say I am so happy for you. Congratulations to you both!

Susanne said...

Congratulations to you both. I found myself wishing that the story would end as it did as I was reading it.

Such good news for you, all the best!

Gidgetknits said...

Fantastic news! May she have all the most gorgeous socks and knitted garments in the world!!! Congratulations!

Lea said...

Oh what a good story. Isn't it amazing and strange how things come to be. I have an inkling of what a path you have gone along to get to here( the pirate is an ivf sprog) and am so happy for you.

At Home Mommy Knits said...

Congratulations that is so exciting!!

LynS said...

I love happy endings.

Tara said...

I wept with tears of pure joy when I read this. Bless the both of you and bless the wee one. Jebus I wish I could hug the crap out of you right now!
Shout this CONGRATULATIONS FROM THE ROOFTOPS!!!!!!

kim said...

I KNEW it! The bread-in-the-oven post gave it away! Oh, congratulations on this hard-won victory. I'm so, so happy for you!!!

Anonymous said...

dear rosered,
i don't know you, and i don't know anything like the pain of unsuccessful ivf treatments, but i've been reading your blog for a little while now, and i nearly cried as i read your story today.
what an absolute delight. i am so, so pleased for you.
i hope that things continue to go really well for you.
:)

Anonymous said...

Congratulations!!!! I had a similar journey myself, but my story didn't have a good ending, I'm sooooooo glad that yours does. :) This child will be sooooo loved and so warm with all the hand knit items that will cover it. :)

BammerKT said...

Mazel Tov! I got teary-eyed reading your story.

Kate said...

I'm so happy for you guys! Congratulations! That is a little one that will be showered with knitted love, and so much the better for them. I'm glad that your good karma finally pulled through for you. Excuse me while I go wipe my eyes!

Jill said...

Good news travels fast. Amy told me. I am so beyond happy for you and Boy. All blessings from the other side of the world. And what a lucky baby. Congratulations.

roxie said...

Talk about a huge rejoicing! All blessings and good wishes. My your baby person be bright and healthy, well-loved and loving. And may you get lots of sleep now!

Donna Lee said...

I had tears in my eyes when I realized where you were going with this. I'm so happy for you. Wow. What a blessing.

Tempe said...

Congratulations! Isn't it amazing and unreal when it finally happens? My kids are all from IVF and I never really believed it until I was in recovery.

Linda said...

OMG!!!! I am so , so happy for you. :) xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Cathy said...

Congratulations! A short person will bring you much joy, as well as the desire to strangle him or her. Usually at the same time. (Why yes, mine is a toddler. Why do you ask?) Enjoy the good moments--they are awesome. Ignore the bad moments as best you can--they will be over soon, and the sting of them goes away quickly. For knitting purposes, I hope it's a girl--boys are harder to knit for.

Poison_kitty said...

That is such an inspiring story, congratulations! Looking forward to hearing more, and seeing all the lovely baby things you will knit!

I hope your friend is doing ok too and has gotten/will get equally good news herself.

Anonymous said...

Wow, that's fantastic. congratulations. I'm so thrilled after all hte heartache of IVF you conceived naturally. All hte best wishes for a healthy pregnancy.

Geek Knitter said...

Oh, such happy news. Great huge congratulations to you.

'Scuse me, must go get a tissue.

Diana said...

Wonderful, fabulous and amazing news! That post was so fun to read. God's timing is perfect and He's got quite a sense of humor too. Blessings to you and your Boy and your new addition.

Anonymous said...

So happy for you! I am childless but wish I could have had a child. I love rejoicing with others who succeed!

GenerallyGemma said...

CONGRATULATIONS! That is fabulous news!!!! So pleased for you!

Inspiration and hope for all!

Em said...

This is easily your best wip yet, and I'll be thinking the warmest, fuzziest, happiest thoughts at you as hard as I can for the next six months. Thank you for letting us know, and hello there, little one!

Alwen said...

I got tears. *sniff*

We didn't do IVF - my cousin had triplets, and much as I wanted children, I didn't think I could deal with that. So after 5 years of marriage, followed by 6 years of trying, I think I can fairly say I know how you feel right now.

Congratulations on your own little blob!

DrK said...

yes yes but like bells said, what to knit!! :) seriously tho, you already know how amazing i think this is, and how happy i am for you and The Boy. great story, looking forward to meeting the finished product!

Anonymous said...

My eyes are just full of tears. OF JOY!!! I'm so happy for you I can barely type. A HUGE congratulations to you!!!

Jo said...

Oh my..... Congratulations to you both...... Wonderful news!

Unknown said...

Congrats! Best WIP ever.

Crafty Things said...

Oh, WOW! Congratulations and may all be well with you.

Lisa said...

Congratulations!!! I'm all teared up over here!!!

Jan said...

Your beautiful story brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing your joy.

Miss Fi said...

My darling Wicked J,

This post was even better than I was expecting. Thrilled beyond words for you both.

At some later date you should let your readers know how you and husby broke the news to me as it was very clever and very you.

Michelle said...

I have been reading your blog for about a year or so now and enjoy it. Even though I dont know you I wept with joy. I wish you and your husby much happiness.

Anonymous said...

Wonderful wonderful story. Thank you so much for sharing this one. (We didn't do the ivf thing, having expected to never have babies no matter what, so my daughter was a "miracle" baby. I can understand the disbelief!) And I really hope it all goes well for you all.

Caffeine Girl said...

I am so very happy for you. What a lovely story and, as you promised, the pay-off is wonderful. Spectacular even!

Here's my advice for pregnancy: eat out and see lots of movies. A few months from now, you'll be too busy and too tired (albeit, happy!).

Michelle said...

Congratubloodylations!!! Such fantastic news. I'm so happy for you all! (but probably not as happy as you guys are...)

Aussie Maria said...

Congrats!!!!! Wonderful, wonderful news

Michelle Lee said...

Congratulations!!! This is such a wonderful news!!!! :) Hugz!!

Julie said...

Congratulations! What a lovely, modest-looking blob you've got there! Better get knitting (along with everybody else). :)

Anonymous said...

What amazing news :) So utterly delighted for you. xxx

TinkingBell said...

And now I'm crying again, because noone who hasn't been through the awfulness and heartbreak of IVF and then had a miracle happen can help but cry enormous happy tears - every time she thinks of this news!

Bianca said...

Best-Wip_Ever. EVER! Congrats to you and husby! Your blob is devine! Happy growing clever lady. xxx

chocolatetrudi said...

I have friends who had one IVF child, then gave up trying to have another after six more years of treatment. Then within a year of giving up... a natural conception. But as they said, the actual odds are very small for this happening, despite all those 'oh, you hear about this happening all the time' comments some people make.

So this really requires a big CONGRATULATIONS!

donna said...

Congratulations! Wishing you all well.

Jenny said...

What wonderful news, I have a tear in my eye and I am so happy for you!

redleaflife in new zealand said...

long time reader, first time commenter... Congratulations! May you have a healthy and happy pregnancy and a healthy and happy child.

zephyrama said...

Darn, you made me cry again! :)

Tigers said...

Congratulations! Wishing you all the best.

Monique said...

Amazing story! Congrats to you and hubby. Thanks fir sharing. My eyes are full of tears for your joy.

Mary said...

Fabulous! Blessings on you all.

Jen said...

Wonderful news! Congratulations!

Unknown said...

I'm in tears, what a wonderful story!

I will keep everything crossed for an uncomplicated and stress free pregnancy and birth - you deserve it!

I am so thrilled that you're on the roller coaster :)

Vintage Grrl said...

Congratulations! May the next 6 months be full of joyful anticipation, and life thereafter be full of happiness.

Lynne said...

Oooooo! Such wonderful news! What a fabulous WIP! Congratulations to the Girl and the Boy!

jp said...

A joyous story my girl. Now what to knit.

Suzi said...

Congratulations! I am so very pleased for you, it truly is a tiny miracle.

Hope it all goes well for the three of you.

Anonymous said...

And now, you've made me cry. *grins*

Ginger_nut said...

congrats! I'll be following very closely cos I'm in the same boat - I'm guessing you'd be due end of aprilish too?

lucky you on skipping the *mourning* sickness. I'm jealous (and still nauseous!)

Leonie said...

Oh my that is such fantastic news. Congratulations to both you and the Boy. Such an amazing experience I hope it all goes well for you all. I'm so happy for you that your wish is coming true.

Anonymous said...

Fabulous news, so happy for you! Oh and congratulations!!

Denise said...

I know I'm late to the party, but it's such wonderful news, I'm so happy for the Couple :)

Anonymous said...

What wonderful news - I teared up at reading this post. THat will be one well knitted for baby, that is for sure!

Anonymous said...

Rosered, I've been reading your blog over the past couple of years and never posted. I had to reply to this one. You are an amazingly strong woman to go through 8 IVF cycles. The heartbreak of negative cycles is devastating. I know. I'm on cycle #5 right now. Retrieval will be Tuesday. If this doesn't work, I'm done with my own eggs (I'm 43). Unfortunately, I don't have a husband to keep trying with.

I am overjoyed for you that this miracle (and it is a miracle) happened. Blessings!!! May your pregnancy be smooth as you've had enough bumps in the road to last a lifetime.

Probably Jane said...

Oooh! I have such a big grin on my face now - the very best of everything to all of you!

Tanya said...

That is such fabulous news - I'm so pleased for you!! And no doubt he/she will be the best-dressed little prince/princess in town! And now you've got to the magic mark, you can start madly knitting! I'm so glad you don't have morning sickness - I couldn't knit for 7 months because it made it worse! Horror of horrors.

Congratulations again and thanks for sharing such a touching story.

claudine said...

Oh what fantastic news! I'm SO happy for all of you! Congratulations!!

Corrie said...

oh yay, I think I might cry now! I've waited to read this post for a long time on your blog and now its here!

hope you're putting your feet up and doing lots of baby knitting! lots!

wonderful wonderful news and I'm so happy for you! lots of blessings to you and hubby!

Corrie:)

~Jody said...

I'm all sorts of late... congratulations! That's so wonderful!!

sweetp said...

Im all sorts of late I know. Hideously so busy at the moment as the 700 unread blog posts in my reader would attest to but decided to pop in today and have a wee look what you are up to. OMG CONGRATULATIONS HONEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Super thrilled for you. Super Duper. Little happy tear might have escaped