Lily and I were very pleased to have 5 attendees at the meeting tonight.  We had one return visitor and four first-time visitors, including one husband.  I think everyone enjoyed meeting each other and sharing our stories.  It always amazes me that we can have such different stories and paths we’ve taken, but still can relate to all of the feelings involved.

We also discussed a men’s group and decided we’d see if St. Luke’s will let us use the room next door to our regular meeting room in March for the men to talk on their own.  We’ll keep you posted about that!  And let us know if you think your husband would be interested.

I’ve struggled with when/what/how much to tell our families about our fertility struggle.  We didn’t get a great response from my husband’s parents, so I’ve been procrastinating talking to mine, even though my friends have been encouraging me to do so.  I guess I have two concerns.  One is all on my end, and that’s admitting that we really, truly do have a problem and that yes, we might never be able to have biological children.  The second issue is what they will say and will it be helpful.  I’ve read a few “guides” about what to tell your family and friends so they might be better able to help you.  Below I’ve listed some of the best ones.  Maybe one of them will help you talk to your family.  And if you have any tips or things to add, please post in the comments!

How do I Deal with Family and Friends?

Learning About Infertility: For Family and Friends
(and several sub-pages; see the left navigation)

Things I Wish I Could Tell People About Grieving Infertility

What We Wish You Knew: Supporting Loved Ones in Infertility

How to Love me Well

And the best one – a music video!
http://lifebalanceinfertilitycoach.wordpress.com/2009/01/31/share-this-great-clip-with-your-friends-and-family/#comment-449

Here’s something I’d like to add: Instead of telling us what to do, how about just telling us to keep trying, it will all be worth it in the end, and yes, we will be parents some day.  I could use a little positive thinking instead of being told what I am doing wrong.  There is no right or wrong; my husband and I are the only ones who get to decide what we do or don’t do.  We don’t need your judgement, but we do need support and encouragement.