As a lot of couples are doing, we married later in life and concentrated on our careers before deciding to start a family.  After trying to conceive for more than 5 years, we discovered that there were problems.  The fact that we were older and didn't have forever to work on conceiving put a lot of pressure on each of us and our relationship.  Although we were determined not to let the possibility of being childless devastate us, having children was something that we both really wanted badly.

Therefore, we began visiting fertility doctors however; we were not comfortable with their quick consultations.  My OB/GYN referred us to Dr. Vasquez.  One of our closest friends, who had received infertility treatment with Dr. Vasquez resulting in triplets, also recommended we see him for a consultation, so we scheduled an appointment.  During our initial consultation Dr. Vasquez took a lot of time explaining the challenges to us and the procedures he recommended and why.  We did not feel rushed, and he seemed to be really sympathetic to our situation.  Even though other doctors came to the same conclusion, that In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) would be their recommended treatment of choice, Dr. Vasquez was the only one to take the time to walk us through the process and leisurely allow us to ask questions and voice our concerns.  We also LOVED the staff!  Everyone in the office is so sweet, knowledgeable and helpful. 

After my husband and I decided to proceed with the IVF procedure, I started a file labeled "Project Baby."  We wanted to keep everything very business-like so as not to get too emotionally invested if the treatment was not successful.  We looked at the entire process in this way.  Honestly, it wasn't until we saw the movement on the ultrasound did the thought of having a baby become real. 

So how has this changed our lives?  On December 9, 2006 Lake arrived weighing 5lbs & 10oz.  We look at the world through new eyes now... mundane things like doing laundry are so much more fun with a baby grabbing socks and putting them in his mouth.  Planning our free time around what we can do with a baby is so exciting and fun for us.  Our priorities have shifted, and we love every minute of every coo, milestone, and yes, even spit up and dirty diapers!  The shots, the blood draws, the ultrasounds - all of that just fades away, and it was worth every tear, pain and frustration. I'm so proud of how hard we worked to get little Lake here - our miracle.  This process made his birth even sweeter, and every day we look at him and have to pinch ourselves that he's really ours!