Better Together

Exactly four years ago, I challenged myself to try new and different things. 60 of them in fact.

At the time, I was in a rut; I wasn't married or having babies like everyone else around me. My life had become monotonous, and I needed more excitement. I chronicled my journey of self-discovery during 60 Things in 60 Days: I learned to cook, tried new foods, climbed rock walls, jumped out of a plane, and went on a blind date, just to name a few. As fate would have it, my first real blind date was life-changing; I married the guy who showed up that night. And now, four summers later, I'm ready to embark on more new experiences with my husband, Cole.

In early February, Cole and I were shocked by a positive pregnancy test just days before a trip to Italy. The "plan" was to wait until after Italy to start our family. We quickly learned that life doesn't always work out the way we expect. Surprised, though very ecstatic, we told our families the news; feelings of excitement and tears of joy filled all of us as we planned for our baby's arrival in October.

Appointment after appointment went well, as we watched our baby girl grow during our 6 week, 8 week, 9 week, and 12 week ultrasounds. But, again, life had other plans for us: by our 16 week checkup, our little girl wasn't kicking or wiggling anymore, and she no longer had a heartbeat. 

In the days and weeks following our loss, Cole and I were heartbroken, saddened, angered, and confused. But, in that time, we were also thankful; thankful for the outpouring of love and support we received from family and friends, and grateful that we had each other as pillars of strength during the healing process.

Despite the challenges we've faced in recent months, Cole and I still look forward to this summer. It's always been a special time for us: we met, were engaged, and eventually married during the summer season. In the coming days, weeks, and months, Cole and I anticipate experiencing new and different things together. We look forward to learning more about each other, exploring the world around us, challenging ourselves, and celebrating life with one another, family, and friends for the next 61 days.

Cheers to an unforgettable summer!​