Today, our last day has been great. We spent it with the agency, Rohini and at the hospital.

We wanted to drop in an see Rohini one last time before we came home and boy are we glad that we did. Since our last meeting, she has been getting the nursing staff to teach her a little English. Enough that she was able to say "hello, how are you", followed by a lovely big smile. She has apparently been asking for photos of us that she can keep with her and is feeling very positive and happy.

She just doesn't want to disappoint us. We knew this is how she might be feeling and it was a great opportunity for us to tell her that this is certainly not something we want her to feel. We totally understand that if it is not successful then it is fate that has decided this. She has already given us a gift by doing what she has done thus far.

Positivity is a big thing here, they believe very much in happy and successful thoughts. Everyone, the agency, the doctors, nurses, carers and drivers are all hugely supportive and extremely positive.

We were taken on a tour of the hospital (where our baby/ies may be born). We met the obstetrician and her staff and were given a comprehensive tour of the birthing suites, rooms, appointments rooms etc. So that we would know and understand where Rohini will be visiting on a regular basis and also, hopefully we're we'll be spending some time during the birth.

It is very pleasing to report that the hospital is lovely, it has all the facilities we would have back home which is very reassuring.

We have very much been treated like any expectant parents. No question has been too big or small and we already have skype plans for when we return. They encourage us to keep in close contact, call and skype as much as we like. Rohini very much likes to see us and was really happy (we were told) that we came to visit her again today. Apparently she was all dressed up and waiting for us long before our arrival.

Rohini just keeps telling me that I am not to worry, not to feel sad for leaving and to go home and be positive and happy that she is doing well. She doesn't want me to cry anymore, as it makes her cry - she is an emotional being just like me.

We can honestly say that we will leave India feeling like our surrogate and her cargo are being very well cared for. We couldn't ask for more in our situation.

Rohini in English means "star". I have told her that I will look to the stars each night and feel closer to her.

Finally, we cannot thank you all enough for supporting us during this "challenging" journey. It has been very therapeutic to journal our thoughts at the end of each day. We didn't enter this blog thing lightly. We thought long and hard (probably too long and hard) about how it would all work. Our hope is that, as our close family and friends, you have been able to experience the magic of modern science like we have and we thank you for listening to us and letting us ramble.

Lots of Love - see you all soon.
Aly & Obie

Rubber necking....

Must admit, today's post was meant to be more of a sign off (for now) on the journey thus far. There is not much more we can report on as, unfortunately, we are as much bystanders in this as you are. We hear, from the lovely SI (Surrogacy India) family that Rohini is doing well, and we hope to drop in on her once more before leaving. But, as hard as we are finding it, that is it for now.

The road has been long and we are now trying to wind down and take in the culture that surrounds Rohini and our embryos. It is difficult to act as a tourist as this was not the reason we took this journey. However, after experiencing all that we have seen, we are glad we took the time out to take in the surrounds and understand a little more about Rohini's culture and her beautiful country.

There haven't been any photos because we are very much bound by our legal agreement - one which we are relying on protecting us, and so, we MUST obide by it. Specifics of treatment and so on must remain confidential - thus is why this is more of a sharing of emotions than logistics.

Saying that, we had a fantastic day. We soaked up some Indian culture and headed toward the South, taking in the Gateway to India and the Taj Hotel as well as the famous Leopold Cafe for lunch. It was at this point that dad sent us a text to inform us that there was a terrorist warning in all major tourist areas.....gee thanks dad, there is no bigger tourist area in the whole of Mumbai, in fact the Leopold Cafe was hit in the last attack...of course, at that time, we were completely oblivious. Obie finished his beer and we headed (slowly) back to Ajit (driver).

Aly with her hand above her head - so bloody hot

Feeling very safe - absolutely no evidence of any unrest here, we continued our day of exploration. We took in some of Mumbai's local haunts and famous landmarks - finishing up at a local bar where Ajit frequents, together with every pashmina on sale in Mumbai.

The whole city is in festival mode, for one reason or another. There is dancing everywhere. The beach (Juhu) where we are staying has thousands of people walking along it. We have just come back from joining the festivities. It is a beautiful night, although today was the hottest day of my entire life. you will see from our pics below... not a good look..! I'm drinking beer for Goodness sake to cool down - happiest day of Obie's life.

This message has been to reassure everyone that we are fine. No need to worry. Sorry there is not much more to report at this time about SI......but thank you for your continued comments. We really love reading them.

The Big Day

G'Day Guys ......... Obie here in an official capacity.

How do you describe in words meeting for the first time "the lady who will hopefully carry your child"
I suppose it was like the nervous anticipation of meeting Aly's mum and dad for the first time. Sweaty palms, anxiety, nervousness and pure excitement. No offence Den & Sue, but I was meeting the parents of my future wife on that Sunday afternoon at the Docklands.
For the first time we are meeting the most important person in our lives. To see someone you have never met and place so must trust and faith in them is truly a moving experience. To start there was a language barrier and we wanted Rohini so desperately to understand our plight. We expressed all our emotions through Sudhir and he passed them on - she seemed to comprehend our journey. The initial meeting was somewhat awkward as all I wanted to do was pick her up and give her a massive hug - obviously that was not allowed, so we settled with a handshake.
For a period of time we just sat there and didn't say anything - I don't know, you start thinking have we selected the right person. Is this whole process going to work. Are we doing the right thing. Of course the answers are yes, but you can't help but question yourself. Up till now it was about the the journey of getting here and all the logistics involved. I suppose you could say it was all very structured and less emotional. Throw into the mix the actual person who you selected, based on a profile, and you start to feel scared and helpless as there is nothing now you can do to make this work.
We were sitting in the waiting room of the hospital and in the space of 15 mins, Rohini was whisked away and the transfer took place. It was like - "what the hell just happened" Where is the pomp and ceremony. Aren't we meant to wish her luck...! I know this sounds negative, but I suppose it's trying to come to terms with how everything is done. Dr Yash was fantastic and kept us up to date with the progress of Rohini and thankfully everything was a success. The transfer couldn't have gone better. We had two A grade blastocysts put back and fingers, legs, arms and anything else that can be crossed, this works.
Up until now we haven't told everyone that the transfer was happening today, I suppose we wanted to make sure it was happening before we let everyone know. This is what we are here for and it is simply en lightning to see someone actually carrying your embryos.

We all met again at Sudhir's office after the transfer and the ice had been broken and we had a more relaxed encounter. I mean how can you not admire someone who has just entered into a spiritual and emotional roller coaster with you. We took photos and had further conversations - through an interpreter of course.

To quote CJ Denis - "I dips me Lid"

A beautiful lady with a very supportive husband and one who understands our circumstances. She so desperately wants to help us start a family and hopefully all that comes true.

Take care everyone and thanks for all your support.

Having a beer and a wine to celebrate - I don't think Aly & I can get much closer emotionally, but believe you me, we have taken it to the next level. The support for each other is massive and I couldn't dream of taking this journey with anyone other than my beautiful wife.

Cheers,
Obes

Cats to win by over 5 goals next week.

The morning of......the Big Day Out.

Morning Melbourne..!
We have woken in anticipation this morning, thinking about meeting the lady who'll now carry our embryos (and hopefully baby/ies) is quite surreal.

Of course, we are dealing with this day in different ways already. Obie has headed off to the gym for a stern workout and here I am....blabbing off at the mouth again (or computer).

I just love your posts, and being able to keep in touch. Even if its not a phone call, its something.
I have attempted to respond to some of them in this post, feeling terrible that this is the first time I'll have done so.

Jordan is so cute, he asked me at the airport how far it was to India, "like how many days Aunty Aly?" and what are ya gonna do when you get there. We very honestly told him that we'd be seeing lots of interesting things and having fun.

Katie, Katie, Katie...I bet it has all come rushing back for you guys. It was so recently that you travelled this same path. (still can't believe we have such wonderful friends who are on the same road, fate is a funny thing). I can't tell you how much all your love and support, advice and information has proved helpful. Everyone here sends you guys big hugs and keeps asking how the wedding went. You are thought of very fondly here.

We know that have a lot on your plate and want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are also with you and Nutsy, they never leave!!.

Potty and Son, you have literally just delivered your own baby and are finding (or making) the time to write to us....Super Parents I tell ya...thanks for text on how Lara is going, we can't wait to get back and have another cuddle.

Jo, I love your witty posts. I bet this is a learning curve for nan - reading her granddaughters posts about surrogacy in India...now there's a generational difference for ya..!

Amie, my beautiful sister, you just never stop being wonderful, you are in my heart like you are here with us. We get to give the gifts today. If she doesn't like them, I'm blaming you.. ha ha. Apparently they like it when the children get things and I have told Sudhir about the hand made hair clips so I think the gifts will be greatly appreciated, all thanks to you!

Dad, for the life of me I can't figure out skype. I know, I'm a huge disappointment but I need all my own profile to log in and just don't have the time to spend figuring it out. We'll speak again soon and, in the meantime, you have plenty of photos around the house of my big ugly head to look at. Mum, how's Amie's supply going? is it depleting fast? I know your struggling, but we are great, happy and where we want to be.

Johanna, are you keeping your mum and aunty up to speed so the information gets through to them correctly..!! ha ha. Thank you for all your comments, you travelled a long journey yourself and certainly know of the desire to have a family.

Martine - do you ever stop crying my friend..ha ha, its good to know that I'm not the only emotional female...ha ha thank you also for all your thoughts and prayers, we appreciate every one of them, now stop blubbering..!

Lisa, where are you girl...?

I know these posts haven't been very interesting to all the blokes that are reading. Obie has earned his stripes though and is soon going to post something with a more male flavour. We might have to start a separate stream for footy results and super coach updates though.

Its all good, one thing we learnt very early in to our journey is that we all deal with things in different ways. Recognising that and allowing each other to do it "their way" helps us to get through the difficult days and be a stronger couple at the end of it.

Work hard in the gym obes, I'm going to sit by the pool.......

Mumbai...Fort Knox!

Firstly - just want to say thank you for all your posts. We are reading them with much affection and feeling very supported (which is great right now). Big Mwahs...

Right - Mumbai....

Amit, our lovely travel agent (who works with the agency) got out of bed to meet us at the airport at 2.30am and escort us, with his driver - who had an air conditioned car (thank god) all the way to our hotel. He, like Katie suggested, was full of useful information and tips and is just SO lovely and supportive.

I must admit, at this point that I couldn't understand why he had got out of bed to greet us. I was thinking a range of "emotional" explanations, believing that we had overcome all the hurdles in getting the embryos here. But, as we pulled up to our little oasis amongst the organised chaos, it became clear why he had got out of bed for us. Security at the hotel was worse than any check point we endured.

After the recent terrorist attacks, security at the top hotels is like "Fort Knox". We were initially greeted by sniffer dogs that went over the entire car (no problem, the dog had just given birth and was sniffing in between feeding, poor thing). But, up to the lovely grand entrance and right there in front of us was a dirty big x-ray machine. Every one and every thing must go through it.

Amit, spoke the local lingo and got it through, just! they were by-no-means happy and just kept asking what it was and why wouldn't we open it. We tried our best to explain but cultural and language barriers prevented the message from getting through.

We checked in and at 4.30am and went to bed. Wake up call ordered for 8am so we could go to the hospital and deliver the embryos.

7.30am we received a call from security, asking if they could visit our room to discuss the "bag" that we refused to have x-rayed. Fate would have it, when they arrived, Dr Sudhir called and we were able to put him on the phone to explain. That being said, they were not happy and asked us not to "break their rules" again.

Soon after we were picked up and heading toward Lilavati hospital. Our first taste of mainstream Mumbai....that is another post entirely.

We arrived at the hospital, were told to keep the camera in the car and had to cross our first road, embryos in hand....OMG! Ajit, our beautiful driver, escorted us to level 2 of the hospital where we met, for the first time, the agency. Both doctors were there to greet us and give us a much needed hug.

Sudhir then went through all the medical aspects - this part must stay confidential for legal reasons so, I will leave a bit gap in the blog at this point. But, just know that we feel very reassured that we, and the embryos are in safe hands.

We are very pleased to report that the embryos have a new home at Lilavati hospital and that we get to meet our surrogate and her family tomorrow. Big day ahead. Exhausted and relieved, happy and excited, and of course, totally scared....

But, we did our best, we got them here and are giving them the best chance at life, as parents (born or unborn) there is no more we can do but pray and finally, relax a little.....

Sorry, very long blog - Obie not impressed!

Oh stop it - I can't believe the doggies lost. How good is this, get to watch the footy live drinking Fosters.

Singapore - Mumbai

WOW - We really don't know where to start, there is just so much going through our heads at this moment. So much to take in - and all Obie keeps saying is "don't make the posts too long, people will get bored"....so, sorry guys, I'll keep them as "interesting" as I can while including all the important details.

Singapore....What a fabulous airport! transiting there for 5hours seemed like a lifetime when we arrived, till we discovered the day spa...! we headed through the airport and discovered the Fish Day Spa. Why Fish? we thought, until we saw three sitting pools filled with cute little fish swimming around (kinda like tadpoles).

We chose our treatments and were led to the pools where other travellers were sitting and soaking up the uniqueness of this experience. What experience?, you might ask! well, the concept is simple, sit, put your feet in and let the fish all gravitate to your feet and eat the dead skin...! Want to throw up? I nearly did and, in spite of several attempts, (Obie told me I was embarrassing him) I just couldn't bring myself to endure such "relaxation". On the other hand, Obes loved it, thought it was awesome.

5 hours later we headed to the gate (another screening point) and were met by ground staff that were fully briefed about our special cargo. We waltzed through and again, boarded the plane first. Qantas were brilliant, and after a short misunderstanding the embies took their rightful place up in Business Class.

By now, the emotions were really hotting up and I struggled to keep back the tears, we were getting closer to Mumbai and were just so unsure what we would face when we landed. It was coming to the end of the road and all our preparedness was about to be truly road tested. In different ways we bared the stress. Obie didn't take his eye of the locker, where they were stored, so he knew no-one could touch them and I just continued to freak out.

We took-off safely and were on our way. About 1 hour in to the flight turbulence hit and the meal service was suspended and everyone told to sit down. I could see lightening in the distance and was convinced we'd all die right then and there. Again.......... a bit emotional. It was at this point that Obie told me to pull my self together and get a grip.

Our trusty pilot made a perfect landing and the embryos hadn't moved. We hung behind and were greeted by ground security who escorted us through the airport, through the swine flu screening and customs and then baggage collection to the the final (or so we thought) x-ray point. (Note - the airport wasn't as confronting as we had thought it might be.....such a relief!)

Wearing a badge of any description in Mumbai means "authority" - this meant that we just walked straight through without x-ray of any description, not even our other bags! pass the mile long ques and out in to India.

We did it - were too scared to high-five in the airport in case they thought something sinister so we had a little jump in our step instead..!

They were through....WOO HOOOOOOO

Day 1 - Adelaide to Singapore

We arrived in Adelaide last night - plans for a glass of bubbly quickly went out the window when we remembered Adelaide shuts at 6pm each day.....option two was a take away pizza and a glass of wine in bed.

We woke this morning filled with anticipation, headed off to the Clinic where the lab and nursing staff were waiting for us.

The first sighting of the vessel (R2-D2) - as you can see by the photos, was the nursing staff carefully transporting him (r2-d2) out of the lift on a trolley. The enormity of what we were doing hit home like a tonne of bricks. I burst in to tears, Obie, being a supportive husband, reassured me we were doing the right thing and then got the camera out to be sure no single part of the process would be left undocumented.

We signed a million forms to say that they were now officially our responsibility...scary! then got in to the smallest car in the world (the rental), a manual! and lets just say Obie left the gear box at several intersections between Dulwich and the Airport.

We arrived at the airport, hearts beating at a million miles an hour - went to check in and, at first, the lady had no idea of our situation, accept that we had a strange piece of cargo.

While standing at the counter another lady came up to us and said "I have to ask, what's in the mushroom". My reply "don't ask, its a long story", she went again, asking the same question and in a more stern voice I replied again - DON'T ask, its a long story.

That was just the beginning of the stares and questions - if "what the?" was a currency we would now be millionaires.

Through to security - where the real work started and thankfully, all our preparedness paid off. They were anticipating our arrival and had all the required paperwork on hand. They simply walked us through and were absolutely awesome.

Our legs were like jelly and for the first time I picked up R2-D2 to carry it a few hundred metres - giving Obie a rest. First thing I did was nearly (very nearly) walk straight through an x-ray point with it in my hand......luckily Obie saw what I was doing and stopped me. Quickly removing the cargo from me and sternly advising that I was no longer qualified to carry it. (FYI- can't be x-rayed or screened as this will instantly destroy the embryos).....God I'm stupid.

At the gate we were met by another Qantas staff member who was fully briefed and waiting for us. The O'Brien family were first to board and had a team of flight crew waiting for our arrival. R2-D2's temporary home in business class was all prepared and he fitted perfectly! - while we were down the back in economy!! Adds new meaning to the saying "born with a silver spoon in their mouth"...

Qantas crew handed us a much needed glass of bubbly - and then another. Thanks to Doccy we were looked after like kings and queens and were the topic of much discussion throughout the flight.

We took off, one last check to see they hadn't tilted during take-off and then we could relax for a few hours.

Arrived in Singapore, greeted by Qantas ground crew who assured us that everything is under control at Singapore Airport's end. phew....two airports down and one to go.

With 4 hours to fill in, we're off to have a massage, do some shopping and brace ourselves for the next leg....

Hope this finds everyone well.

Love Aly and Obie.

Travel plans

We leave Melbourne for Adelaide Wednesday night and have decided that our first stop in Adelaide will be a nice bar that serves great bubbly....

Thursday morning we head to the clinic at 7.30 to collect the embryos and then straight on to the airport to check in our "hand luggage" as they keep calling it.

That's all for now, will update as we go.

To blog or not to blog......

Who knew when we decided to travel the path of surrogacy that there was a decision to be made about blogging - To blog or not to blog......

apparently, after much consideration and questioning whether this was for us, we decided To blog....... so, here we are - our first post (which is going to be interesting seeing neither of us have even embraced face book yet) so, please bare with us and if you don't mind, there is one "rule of engagement".

We have been overwhelmed by the level of support and encouragement our family and friends have given us and all the phone calls, cards and emails with messages of hope, faith and friendship. That is the main reason we decided to blog our journey - so that you, our very special family and friends, could be with us all the way - if you want to - there is no guarantee these posts won't become seriously boring....

But, although we are very open and honest about this part of our life, it is still a very personal journey. We would very much appreciate your discretion and ask that you don't forward this link on without asking first.

That being said, thank you for following our progress and all your prayers and finger crossing - we'll happily take it all as we commence "option 2" of project stork.