Secret, Secret...I've Got a Secret.

Over the past two years this blog has evolved into a very public "journal" for me.  While not always easy, I have put myself out there for public viewing and scrutiny in an effort to capture as many memories as I can.   Through my posts you have witnessed the ups and downs of our journey as heart parents, and stood by our sides as we have transitioned into a very different type of role...parents to a perfect angel.

This blog (and all of you who read it) has become a HUGE part of my life...

but by no means is it my whole life.

There are obviously parts of our lives that I choose to keep private...I don't write about every bad day, every tear I shed, every angry conversation I have with God.  And the same holds true for the positives in our lives.  We smile, we laugh, we continue to live each day trying our best to take steps forward.  Each day marks progress in its own unique way.  I don't share each and every detail, but rather try to document the "big picture" things along the way - not only hoping that it will help ME heal, but also hoping that maybe, just maybe, another grieving parent will come across our story and realize that they are not alone.


There are lots of exciting things going on in our lives right now, and I feel like I'm keeping more "secrets" than I normally do.  Now don't get me wrong, I'm a great secret keeper when it comes to OTHER PEOPLE'S secrets, but when it comes to my own??  Well, I just get antsy!  I know that there will be a "right" time to share all of these things with you all--but for now I just need to be patient.


Soooo with that long lead in, I will let you know that I got an official "sign" today letting me know that the time has come to share Secret #1....


This morning I pulled a shirt out of my closet and quickly threw it on in an attempt to get out the door for work on time.  Halfway through fastening all of the buttons, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and immediately broke out in hysterical laughter.

I hadn't worn this particular shirt in quite some time.

Yes, that is skin that you see peeking out between the buttons.

No, I didn't accidentally shrink my shirt in the laundry.
Yes, I found something a little less "ill-fitting" to wear to work.

Yes, it is officially time to share secret #1.

Little Miss is going to be a BIG SIS!

Matt and I are THRILLED to announce that Baby Ritchie #2 is due to arrive July 2nd, 2012!  

Yes, I am 17 weeks pregnant!  With Charlotte I could hardly make it to the 13 week point without spilling the beans, but this time things have just felt different.  We told our families and close friends, but aside from that I have kept fairly quiet.  I can't even begin to tell you how blessed and excited we feel, but at the same time there is something so terribly bittersweet about it.  I have so much hope for our future and am beyond grateful for this chance at a new beginning yet at the same time my heart continues to ache for my baby who was called to be with Jesus.

Please keep our growing family in your prayers.  I hate that all of our excitement has to be tainted with even the slightest bit of fear of the unknown, but the reality of our past makes us that much less naive this time around.  We have put our trust in God and can't help but believe that He will bless us with a healthy little baby with a strong, healthy heart!  I can't wait to meet you little one!!

AHHH!  WE'RE HAVING A BABY!!!