Hello — I’m Ailleen.
This is the place I’m starting to share pieces of my life: the hard, the hopeful, and everything in between. The past few years have been some of the most intense I’ve ever lived through. I’ve faced injury, job loss, the unimaginable grief of losing a family member to suicide, a house fire that took so much, and the deep, ongoing pain of miscarriage and pregnancy loss. All of it has folded into who I am now — tired and raw in places, but still standing and choosing to keep moving forward.
Why I’m writing I’m beginning this blog for my mental health and to document a chapter I’ve dreamed about my whole life: becoming a mom. I grew up wanting children, I love working with kids, and I’m finishing my degree in Early Childhood/Special Education (graduating this June). Soon I’ll be going to New York to begin IVF — a step I’m both terrified and hopeful about. Writing feels like a way to hold myself accountable, process grief, celebrate small wins, and maybe help others who relate.
What you’ll find here
- Honest reflections on grief, fertility, loss, and healing
- My IVF journey — appointments, emotions, and practical details I learn along the way
- Thoughts on motherhood, working with children, and finishing my degree
- Small wins, self-care practices, and resources that help me cope
A note on tone I’ll be honest and real. Some posts will be raw. Others will be quiet moments of gratitude or practical updates. If you’re here because you’ve been through loss, are navigating fertility, or just want to follow a hopeful journey — welcome.
Next post I’ll share more about my decision to pursue IVF, what led me here, and how I’m preparing emotionally and practically. If there’s something you want me to cover (IVF questions, coping with miscarriage, balancing school and treatment), tell me in the comments or DM me — I’d love to hear what would be helpful.
Thank you for being here. Carrying hope with me,
Ailleen
ailleenfamily 