When does the journey into motherhood begin? This is a question that has been on my mind as we near the month of May. The month of Mother’s Day. The week leading up to May is National Infertility Awareness Week.

Scrolling Facebook, I see friends and family showing their support for those struggling with infertility. I see friends and family share their own struggles with infertility. My heart is saddened by the struggles and swells with love for those who share the stories and support.

The current statistic is that 1 in 8 couples struggle with infertility. With those stats, chances are that you know someone who is struggling. Someone you know has been desperately desiring to expand their family. Maybe that person is you.

You have an aching in your soul to see that positive pregnancy test, to puke for 12 weeks, to feel those first kicks, to have an aching back and pelvis, to feel the labor pains, to hold your child after hours of labor and delivery. You long to spend your nights breastfeeding, to function on little to no sleep, to snuggle your bundle during the day, to clean up poop and spit up, to fall in love with a gift sent to you from God.

As I wipe my tears, I want to move back to my original question: When does the journey into motherhood begin? When you hold your baby? When you see the ultrasound picture? When you get the positive test?

I have to argue, none of those. Your journey into motherhood begins with your first hope and dream of your child. The longing and love you have for your child - THAT begins your journey. God is actively preparing you to be the mother He knows you will be.

Your struggle and your pain very well may be your first test of motherhood. And, mama, I am here to tell you, don’t give up! Not yet! There is a different way. A way to see those two pink lines. A way to feel the first kicks. A way to hold your child.

I am here for those couples that are longing and aching to expand their families. I am here with support and solutions.

How? Well, I will get into the nitty-gritty next week. Until then, don’t give up just yet!