We really wanted to conceive a baby in the intimacy of our bedroom. After an unsuccessful year, we knew we would have to seek help again.

Sometimes we have to put our own desires aside to see his. During the whole IVF procedure, I felt like God was telling me not to do it. I just had to make sure I wasn't hearing him wrong, so I did it anyway. Now, over $12,000 later, I wish I would have trusted that he was indeed talking to me. I know I heard him calling us to foster care/adoption. This time I didn't hesitate to make sure I heard him right. His voice was way too clear.

Real intimacy depends on truth - lovingly told - especially in the bedroom.

I'm proud of you, Bliss," he said.
"Michael's sword released the souls that were trapped in your blood. You freed them. You freed me."
"But now I'm never going to see you again, am I?" she asked.
Dylan smiled. "It's unlikely. But I never say never.'
"I wish you wouldn't go. I'll miss you so much," Bliss said.
"I'll miss you too."
Dylan put his hand up, and so did Bliss. But this time, instead of touching air, she felt his warm hand grasping her cold one. She looked at Allegra. Somehow, she knew her mother was making this happen. Dylan leaned down, and she could feel his lips, soft and inviting, gently kissing hers. Then Dylan was gone. But Bliss did not feel anguished. She felt at peace. Dylan was not broken and incomplete anymore. He was whole.

I had to take baby steps all year,

It's probably something we're going to have to baby a bit all year,