Each Tuesday, I'm going to share something I am either:
a) thankful for, b) something I witnessed that was an act of kindness, or c) something I did to "pay it forward"
I'd love it if you'd join me. One day a week. One thing. It can take 15 seconds or 4 hours. Don't you feel better when you are able to notice the pretty things in life? Leave a comment here, or share it in your own space, and enjoy being thoughtful...in more ways than one!
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This Tuesday: Braces Bunch
Back when I started blogging, I was still feeling a bit alone in the blogging community--I wasn't sure where I fit in, especially since I hadn't found a lot of people talking about male factor infertility.
So I had this idea--"I'm going to ask people who I don't know to send me their mailing address!"
Crazy, huh?
But it worked! HA!
And those who trusted my idea, have become some of my closest friends--not just in blogland, but in real honest to goodness every day life.
The Braces Bunch was formed on the idea that I never had braces growing up, and for some odd reason I felt left out because it seemed like all my friends had them--and even though they were painful, I wanted them too, because I wanted to fit in. I felt like getting the male factor infertility diagnosis made me a bit of an "outsider"--I was infertile, but it wasn't happening directly to my body, so I felt a bit like an impostor for a while...so I wanted to feel a bit more connected.
Here's the original explination:
"I was one of the lucky few...I never needed braces. Probably a good thing too since I have a strong dislike of anything resembling a dentist chair. But in some strange twisted way, I sometimes envied my friends who had them. They got to get out of school to get their braces tightened or adjusted, they got cool color-coordinated rubber bands, and often times it was a discussion at the lunch table over what foods they missed eating or couldn't have. I found myself on the outside of many conversations...
And 3 1/2 years later, we had our first official gathering. There are currently 32 bloggers as a part of the Bunch, so not all of us could be there--just six of us this time. But we had a great time--and I am so thankful for all of these ladies who have swapped notes, emails, birthday cards--I cannot imagine the past few years without this immense support system.
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| I did my best to draw our logo! |
Visit here to learn more about The Braces Bunch!
What are you sharing on this Thoughtful Tuesday? (Links open until Friday!)
I think it was a fabulous idea and I know so many of the Bunchers would be lost without each other's support. You definitely deserve a great big hug for thinking of it. :)
ReplyDeletewho would have thought you could make such amazing friends through the internet?
ReplyDeleteyou gals are lucky to have each other!!
I was wondering about the origins of the Braces Bunch. What a cool way to connect as a group.
ReplyDeleteThe Braces Bunch has been a godsend for me. I love going to my mailbox when I am going through a tough time (and sometimes not so tough) and receive mail that gives me a both a smile and an emotional boost. During my IVF cycle and surgery last year (both overseas), I took the cards with me so I could feel better whenever I looked at them. I can't wait to meet other Braces Bunchers in the future and I thank you JJ (thank you, thank you, thank you) for the Braces Bunch!
ReplyDeletewhat a fantastic way to not feel so alone in the lonely world of IF..what a great idea and I'm so glad you found these women to share your ups and downs, goods and bads.
ReplyDeleteVERY VERY AWESOME :)
Im thankful for the BB as well. Im not an active member, but it brought me great comfort at a time when I needed it the most. Thanks JJ for your thoughtfulness. You saw a need, and it fit the bill!
ReplyDeleteI am so glad you started the Braces Bunch. You gals are some of my best buds! I really can't put into words the support and friendships I have gotten from you all!
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