Rocky Roads & Happy Trails

Rocky roads are better left as candy bars and ice cream flavors. But, I suppose we are all dished some of the other kind; the roughest and toughest, ain't-nothin'-sweet-about-it kind. The last 2 months off my life have been so rocky at times that I just can't do anything but cry, and pray--usually at the same time. But, between the rocky roads, I have been able to find some of the sweetest happy trails that fill my heart with so much joy and gratitude that there is nothing to do but...well, cry and pray.

I suppose I have done a lot of crying, and a lot of praying.

The name of the Rocky road I would call post-partum complications and my happy trail I would name Gracie Jane.

My pregnancy was an easy and blissful coast---I felt so lucky. But goodness, did I pay for it in the recovery. My recovery has had me wondering if I can ever be excited to do that part of it again. After the chorioamnionitis, the hemorrhage, the NICU admission, the feeding issues, the abnormal uterine bleeding at 5 weeks postpartum, and the two rounds of pyelonephritis, and several different broad spectrum antibiotics about had me ready to lose it all over the edge of a cliff.

But, here in my arms, as I type most of this with one hand, is a sleeping angel. She has brought more purpose and fulfillment in my life than I have ever felt. She fills our home with the happiest Spirit. And, after having her sick in the NICU, I feel so grateful to have every minute with her. Even her little cries I enjoy. I am excited for all the milestones, but I really can't help but think how much I will miss cuddling her when she is too big for all that. I would do anything for her. I would even re-trace my steps back through that rocky road if I had to.

Over the past few weeks I have pondered this promise from President Eyring many times:


If we have faith in Jesus Christ, the hardest as well as the easiest times in life can be a blessing.

I now know how that is possible.
I also found great comfort in these promises.

We never need to feel that we are alone or unloved in the Lord’s service because we never are. We can feel the love of God. The Savior has promised angels on our left and our right to bear us up. And He always keeps His word.

If you like those words, they come from here.
Find some inspiring words, and keep them handy, for your rocky roads.
But also, write down some happy trails, so that you don't miss 'em.