I am surrounded by hope. When I got one follicle (most women doing IVF get at least six), my doctor didn’t say one negative thing. She knew the odds of this follicle containing an egg were minimal, but she also knew it was the best response I had received. I love this picture of her with my daughter, and I love that she tells the story of the lady with one follicle to give other’s hope.

I am surrounded by friends, strong and true. The sort of friends you can say anything to, and be assured your heart is safe. The sort of friends who are consistent in every way, and you can be ridiculously silly with. I have met them through every phase of my life. Some in ICU, internet IVF support groups, school, parties. Love them all.

I am surrounded by birds. I call out “birdie bedtime,” each evening, and tuck them in. Highly intelligent creatures, birds. I envy their ability to fly. Would have come in handy in my life!

I am surrounded by grace. Grace saved my life via blood transfusions. Grace saved my life on that cold winter’s night, as depicted on my body cast.

I am surrounded by love. Not the kind that is romantic in nature, with grand overtures. The kind that is eternal, ephemeral and takes you away from all the nonsense. This kind of love.