Now that I’m exiting out of my first trimester, I’m excited to announce that Kyle and I will be parents this spring! I’m pregnant! It feels so crazy to say that, but wow, do I feel it. I wish I could say it’s been butterflies and rainbows, but pregnancy has knocked me out. I know it’ll all be worth it, and hopefully, I will get to feeling better soon. I hear it’s supposed to get better after the first trimester…I’m still waiting! 🤞 
Through all of the sickness, I still feel so grateful. I know I’ll forget all about the hard times as soon as I get to hold our little one. I can’t wait to see Kyle be a dad. He’s truly going to be the best.
I’m sure you have a lot of questions about the first trimester and my pregnancy so far! I know I have been away from the internet for a while, but I needed to give myself some time. It’s hard to want to write when I haven’t been feeling mentally or physically myself. I hate that these cute announcement photos make it seem all so “peaceful.” I’ve read a lot of first trimester recaps, and I’ve seen a lot of posts on social media, but I was not expecting the wave of sickness that has taken over me. Please don’t confuse this with complaining, but only keeping it real. I mean, just before these photos, I was puking up breakfast and trying to put on mascara in-between. I was chatting with one of my good friends, and she encouraged me not to sugarcoat how it’s been. I think we’re sometimes afraid to share the struggles because it shows weakness, or people confuse it with complaining. Trust me, I’m SO grateful, but not a day goes by where I don’t throw up 2-5 times, and sometimes I’m sick from 5 am until I get to bed at night. It hasn’t let up yet, but I do have a bit of my energy back. It’s crazy how every pregnancy is different. Some people go through it without one symptom, and I naively thought maybe that would be me. I’ve already thrown up twice today, and it’s not even 9 am yet. I want to post more on my first trimester, talking about everything and answering your questions! You can leave some questions in the comment section for the first-trimester post, or you can submit them on Instagram.
Kyle and I had been talking about starting a family for the past few years. We finally felt like the timing in our life was just right, and we prayed to God that He would bless us with a child. 
We have decided to keep the gender a surprise! We don’t want to know until he/or she is born, which is so fun and hard not knowing! Kyle thinks it’s going to be a girl, and I think it will be a boy. It does help not knowing the gender because I have been buying more neutral things that can be reused if we have another baby later down the road. But if I knew the gender, I would be buying so many gender-themed outfits for the baby! I always see something that melts my heart, but then I know I can’t buy it because I don’t know the gender! So financially, it helps me! 
Motherhood and blogging.
I’ve always felt a certain way about it. Kyle and I have always been on the same page about keeping our child’s life private from the blog. I think there are tasteful ways to share family moments, but ideally, I’d like my child to be able to choose when they want to be on the internet. Privacy is such a hard thing to attain nowadays. I’m so lucky my mom and dad didn’t post 1000 embarrassing photos and stories about me online. Elementary school was hard enough. I plan to give my kids that respect as well.
I plan to blog about motherhood from my perspective, share products that I use, nursery design, food, organization, books, activities, and everything while keeping my child’s life or struggles off the internet.
Feel free to ask any questions about this, and I’ll include it in my first-trimester post.
Seeing the baby bounce around during the ultrasound was the cutest little thing in the entire world. It’s crazy how real it all feels in that moment, and as soon as you hear the heartbeat, the waterworks start going. I know I’m feeling defeated with sickness right now (morning sickness isn’t an accurate word to me because it’s all-day sickness), but my excitement for our baby is so much bigger. I cannot wait to be a mom. 
It’s crazy to think about all we’ve been through this past eleven years of blogging. Some of you have been here since 2010! I’m excited to bring you on this baby journey with me! ♥️
Questions for you!
- Do you currently have any kids?
- Questions you’d like me to answer in the first-trimester post?
- What are your guesses? Boy or girl.
Congratulations!!! Just wanted to say – thanks for writing this post. I am currently pregnant as well (due in January) and man it’s so hard. Way more difficult than I ever thought it would be. Power to all the moms! I definitely feel like people do NOT talk about this enough. There are some people who have these amazing pregnancies and for others – it is down right HARD. People make you feel so guilty for feeling like this sucks, but I just don’t think people talk about it enough. Prayers for you and a healthy baby!
Thank you, Erica!
You said it perfectly! I have felt so guilty at times for not being able to get up off the couch or out of bed. People just experience it so differently! I pray you have the healthiest pregnancy and delivery! Honesty, January babies are the best but maybe I’m being biased 😉 ♥️
Congratulations! I, myself had horrible sickness in both of my pregnancies. No tips to help bc nothing worked for me but just to offer prayers for a healthy mama and baby. 💗
CONGRATS! I had a feeling this might be happening 😉 Praying you guys have a healthy pregnancy and baby. My husband and I have been trying for 6 months now and hoping this is me in the near future! My vote is a girl for you forsure. I think it’s sweet you are waiting to know the gender until birth. There are few things in life that are truly surprising, and this is a good one. Congrats again!
So happy for you guys! I’m an OG follower and it’s been amazing to follow along your journey all these years! You deserve all the wonderful things! I hope you start feeling better soon <3
Congratulations Taralynn! I am so happy for you – I’ve been following you since college and felt like I’ve grown up with you. We even have the same birthday! (I’m one year younger!) I am so excited to see you take on motherhood.
I just had my first baby in January, and my pregnancy was very difficult. I threw up everyday including the day I gave birth lol I lost about 30 pounds during my pregnancy (I was overweight so it wasn’t detrimental) and could hardly function. It’s weird now that my baby is 9 months I have forgotten all about that unless people remind me, I already want a second one ASAP 😂 just listen to your body and if there is a food you can eat that won’t make you vomit, eat it for breakfast lunch and dinner! Ginger chews are lifesavers as well.
I’m so happy for you, I can’t wait to read about your pregnancy, I hope you consider some Vlogs as well if you’re up for it!
First of all congratulations to you & your family…I know the Grandparents are over the moon as well! I have one child(a son who by the way is 30!) I don’t think you will ever NOT look at him or her and see them still as a baby. Lastly, I commend you for not finding out the gender! So exciting….
Look forward to your posts & hope that the morning/all day sickness will get better.
Hi, Taralynn! I’m so glad you’re back! I’ve been following your blog for years, and have always enjoyed your content. I’m currently almost out of my first trimester with my second child and due in the spring as well, and like you the sickness has been pretty rough this go around. I’m always afraid to talk about it too much because I don’t want anyone to think I’m complaining, but it can be overwhelming at times. I know how much of a blessing it is to be in this situation, and on the really sick days I just try to think that means the baby is healthy and growing.🙂
Anyway, I’m super happy for you and your family! I’ll be praying for you in the months to come, and I know God will bless you with your perfect little one!❤️
Yay!! Congratulations, you will be wonderful parents. I think I’ve been reading your blog for almost 8 years!
I have two kids, both are girls and the pregnancies were so so difficult on me and my husband! We want to have a 3rd and just the thought of the pregnancy sickness helps me wait, haha! When I’m pregnant I feel like I’m a completely different person because I get so sick. I threw up everyday for 30 weeks.
Just know it does get better. It may be when you give birth, but you’ll feel better one day and it is so worth it. I hope you start feeling better soon though. You got this mama!
Congratulations! I am so happy for you and Kyle! You’re going to be amazing parents. My guess is a girl.
Congratulations! I’m so happy for you, have been reading your blog for a long long time. I’m so sorry you are feeling so awful. I’m pregnant right now and expecting a baby in the spring, too. I have been so sick, throwing up and nauseous for months, and just downright miserable. Grateful, but miserable. I actually felt really mentally depressed and missed my old self who liked to cook and hike and be active, because I did zero of those things. I just hit 19 weeks and I am finally starting to feel better. So don’t be disappointed now that first trimester is over and you don’t feel magically better. I didn’t have any relief until at least 17 weeks. Hang in there! I will be thinking of you. Motherhood is a complicated and difficult journey for sure.
Congratulations! May I ask, were you pregnant at your wedding and if so how did that affect planning and handling stress, especially with you not feeling well?
I was not! ❤️ we didn’t start trying until after. I was actually on my period during my wedding 😑
Congratulations!! I’m due with our first in the spring as well! I’m so sorry that you’ve been so sick. I can definitely relate to not feeling mentally or physically like yourself. Pregnancy is bizarre and we just have to do the best we can! I hope you feel better soon, maybe you and I will both get the crazy second trimester energy that you hear about soon!
Congratulations! That is such exciting news! It really is a time for change and can be overwhelming. When I was pregnant, I remember getting mad at everyone who painted it all to be rainbows and unicorns. I thought it was such a disservice to new moms and I was unapologetically honest about all of it – the good, the bad and everything in between. You and Kyle will make terrific parents!
Thank you for sharing that! Makes me feel like I’m not “overdramatic” in how I’m feeling right now! Definitely not unicorns and rainbows right now, but i know it’ll all be worth it! xo xo xo
Oh no…you are definitely not being overdramatic! Pregnancy can be both beautiful and exciting AND not fun all at the same time! LOL
😭😭😭😭😭
Congrats Tara and Kyle!!! I can’t wait to watch you on your baby journey- you both are going to be such AMAZING parents! Baby is so lucky to have you both!
I’m excited to see how Leo and Tux do with a new sibiling 😃
I sure hope you start to feel better soon – as you said, it will totally be worth it!!
Awww thanks, Jennifer!!!!
Tux is going to be the BEST big brother 😆 Leo will need some personal space trainig! ♥️
Thanks again! xo
Awww thanks, Jennifer!!!!
Tux is going to be the BEST big brother 😆 Leo will need some personal space training! ♥️
Thanks again! xo
I’m also due this spring! It’s such a day to day thing, you can’t predict how you will feel the next day. I love the app peanut, you can connect with other moms and ask questions, there are also pods you can join and just talk about whatever without feeling judge. Have a nice 7 months left 🥰
Thanks, Sybille!!!
So so so happy for you both!!! Such an exciting time for sure 🙂 I’m also due in spring (with our second) and we too have decided to be surprised with the gender which I know will be well worth the wait!
I feel so much for your first trimester. It’s not all rainbows and sunshine and I appreciate you telling us your experience. I can’t wait to follow along your new journey and wish you all the best! <3
congratulations!! I’m currently due april 21st! Excited to go through this experience at the same time. My first baby is a boy and this one is a girl, i’m luckily one of the blessed ones with minimal nausea so the old wives tale goes out the window! Hope all goes well the next 6 months 💙💓
Ah so exciting! Congrats! I have an almost 2 year old son. We waited until he was born to find out the gender, and I swear hearing the doctor say “what is it, dad?” And then hearing my husband say “it’s a boy” thru his tears was hands down the best.
I’ve been following you since the Tumblr days and SO excited to hear that you are going to be a mom! Thank you for being honest about how pregnancy has been, and I look forward to future real & honest conversations from you about pregnancy and motherhood. CONGRATULATIONS!
Congratulations! They are so worth everything in the end. My daughter turns one this week, and it went so fast! I want to say I really respect that you are choosing to keep your child’s life off the internet and private. My husband and I also wanted this for our little girl. It’s really hard to not share her cuteness all over! Ultimately the Internet is not a place for kids for safety and mental health. Thank you for advocating this! Sending all the good vibes to you on your pregnancy journey! Hope you feel better soon!
Congratulations!!! I’ve been following you since the tumblr days, and even though we are strangers, I’m very happy for you and wish you the absolute best on motherhood!
I have two little ones who are close in age. It was intense the first couple of years with double diapers and strollers, but they’re finally both potty trained and are best of friends. There is nothing better than snuggling with each kid with me in bed on a cold evening! I count my blessings every day that I have them in my life. I would have 4 more kids if I could – I love being able to talk with my kids and hear their thoughts, but chubby cheeks and gummy smiles on a baby always takes me back.
Enjoy the pregnancy as much as you can! First pregnancy is such a special time for you both. 💕
Congratulations! So happy for you and your family! I hope you feel better soon and get some relief.
Thank you for your raw and real comments regarding pregnancy. I am currently expecting my 2nd. My first pregnancy was all butterflies and rainbows, little to no sickness at all. This time around I have been knocked off my feet with constant sickness, and the addition of a toddler running around. It’s not easy, but there’s such a beautiful light at the end of the tunnel. Congratulations!!
Congratulations!! Ya’ll will be wonderful parents. If you can stand the smell of peppermint a little peppermint oil on the back of your neck helps with nausea. I was sick the whole nine months with both of my pregnancies and this helps. Praying for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
I have two kids. They’re older, 9 and 12, but I’ve been aching for another lately but have been battling with if it’s too big of an age gap.
I’m guessing you’re having a girl!
Hello amanda 🙂 Firstly, congratulations on your older two children. If you want more why not two more? then the age gap won’t be as much of a proplem.
I’ve known personally many families that do this and it works quite well.
Just a thought lol x
You will feel soooo much better after you get past that four months mark! I am currently pregnant with my first at age 41. I am approaching 7 months and all of that morning sickness is gone, but you trade it in for the aches and pains of your body stretching and growing.
Congrats on your bundle of joy! you will be a great Mama!
Congratulations to you too Brooke, your baby is gonna be blessed to have you for a momma as well <3
I was so happy to hear of an older first time mother! My husband of 12 years and I have started trying this week and I am 42 (turning 43 in a month, February 2022).
I am very concerned I’m too old to fall pregnant!
Je suis si heureuse pour vous, c’est un si beau cadeau, depuis 5 ans que ma petite Lou m’a fait devenir sa maman ma vie est devenue si belle.
Tu sera une merveilleuse maman
Émilie de France
Taralynn!! I am so emotional reading this post! Partly because I’m relieved you’re ok (you’ve been deeply missed!) and also because I am SO SO SO excited for you and Kyle–what a blessing! I don’t currently have kids, but the thought crosses my mind from time to time. I appreciate your transparency and realness, and I’m looking forward to following along your journey!
I guess some questions I have are: what were some of the first signs you experienced before you learned you were pregnant? What has been the biggest surprise of being pregnant that you did not expect?
I’m with Kyle, I’m thinking a little girl! I love that you’re being “old school” in deciding to wait until they are born. My parents did the same with me. I think there’s so much excitement associated with not knowing 🙂 I am over-the-moon thrilled for you and your family!
xoxo Kelsey
I have two kids. A 5 year old, sassy girl and my baby boy turns 2 tomorrow! I love that you’re keeping it real and being honest that you’re having a rough first trimester. I hope it turns around soon! Also, you won’t even remember this once the baby comes because some of us do it again, so clearly its all worth it lol.
I have been following since 2010, but I think this might be my first comment 🙈 so many congratulations ❤️❤️❤️
I’m a mom of three, and it’s equally the hardest and most wonderful part of my life. I absolutely hated being pregnant though 😂 I would count down the days, sometimes the hours. I was severely sick 24/7 for 20-25 weeks with each. My husband has pics of me lying on the kitchen floor in between making toast for our older two when I was in my first trimester with our third 🙈🙈 I was unable to do anything, some days I couldn’t even sit up straight. But it’s absolutely true: the second you hold this precious gift in your arms… it’s all forgotten. Otherwise I wouldn’t have three 😉
Thanks for sharing it like it is, I think it’s so important to be open about these things.
Congratulations! I was incredibly sick when I was pregnant too, it sucks and I’m sorry! It’s a weird thing to be happy you’re pregnant then hate being constantly sick because you’re pregnant, haha. We also left the gender a surprise and it was the best choice and surprise ever! Hope you start feeling better soon! 💛
I’m so happy you’re back (I was getting a bit worried) and SO excited for your pregnancy! Congratulations to you both ❤️🥰 I think it’s a very good thing that you’ll keep your baby mostly private and off the internet.
Thanks for being honest. I know that a low more people than you think feel like crap during pregnancy, and some feel so guilty for it.. I’m tired of people who paint this fairytale picture of how wonderful everything is. We NEED the realness, it will 99,9% help someone who might feel like a failure for not feeling too freaking great in their pregnancy and feeling like there’s something wrong with them because of it. Thank you!
Anyways, I’m just super happy that you’re back and that you’re good (besides the pregnancy related sickness). Excited for your future posts!
Congratulations Taralynn! I´m so happy for you and Kyle, you will be wonderful parents! You look stunning! 🙂
Congrats to you and Kyle! Being pregnant is not what the internet snapshots make it out to be. I’m a mommy x2 (girls), and I was severely Ill with both until my 3rd trimester. Don’t let others fool you. I am so happy for you both and I’ll be praying for you! One thing that helped me was Zofran! My doc gave me dissolvable tabs because I couldn’t keep down the regular ones. Also, CVS had lollipops for sickness. They’re not anything compared to real meds but they’re soothing. Kinda a mental game. Anyway.
P.S I rarely post my kids or hubby and that’s okay.! It’s your most private moments. Do what feels right to you! 💜
You’re so loved and yayyyy!!!! Xoxo
MAZEL TOV!!!!!!
I have one daughter and she’s 14 today. My advice enjoy the baby days. They go by so so fast.
PS I think its a girl.
First off, CONGRATS!! I am expecting as well, due in March!
1. Currently, I am pregnant with mine & my husband’s first. We did find out via genetic testing around week 11 that we are having a GIRL, and that was confirmed during my week 18 anatomy ultrasound.
2. I hope your sickness subsides soon! I was just constantly nauseous 24/7 from the time I hit 6 weeks until the time I hit 14 weeks (to the day on both ends). Hopefully it all gets easier! My only question is, how did you tell your family/Kyle’s family, and how did they react?
3. My guess for you is a Girl!
Congrats! I just had my third baby in May (I also have a 4 and 2 year old). Pregnancy was not enjoyable for me and it doesn’t make you less grateful for your babies. It’s hard growing a human. The best advice I can give on the nausea is lots of protein. Obviously eating just to throw up sucks, but protein can help. I ate eggs and sausage every morning this past pregnancy and noticed a big difference. It really helps. Other than that, sea bands and lots of sleep.
Congrats!! I’ve been following you for years, maybe since 2011. I’m a mama, my girl is 14 months now and we didn’t know the gender either. My gut instinct said girl, so I agree with whatever you think it is!
You are so not alone, Mama! My two pregnancies were the hardest things I have ever done – I didn’t “glow” or love it like all the other mamas I knew. I was so sick and it felt like I went from one thing to another each week… It’s hard not to let the guilt creep in when you, at the same time, feel so blessed to be carrying a child. I think pregnancy and motherhood isn’t an “either or” experience… It’s okay for it to be the hardest thing and the biggest joy. It’s okay for it to be our own beautiful story, that is also filled with so much puke sometimes. 😭😂 And I can tell you, that at almost 2 weeks postpartum with our 2nd, I know for a fact that I would do all of the “hard” over and over again, a million times, to get to be the mama to my babies. It’s struggle and love all rolled up into the craziest, happiest journey called “motherhood.” You are doing an amazing job!!! You are not alone in this journey! I am praying for you right now that you WILL start feeling better so soon!!! Just know that you are a complete and utter champion Mama! 🥰 So much love.
Congratulations!!!! I‘ve been following you since 2013 and have loved seeing your journey. I’m actually due May 9th with my first and I’m so happy to be nearing the end of the first trimester. Wishing you a healthy and happy pregnancy ❤️.
So exciting! I just had my 3rd boy on 10/18. He is the only one I had all pregnancy symptoms with! Hang in there, what an exciting time.
Congrats to both of you, that’s a wonderful news ♥️
I wish you all the best for this next chapter and I hope you’ll feel better very soon.
I don’t have kids yet but I have been thinking about it lately, so I can’t wait to read all the baby related posts :p
I vote for a baby girl lol ^^
Have a lovely day
OMG CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU BOTH! I have been worried about you, since you had kind of gone MIA but glad to hear it was happy news! I don’t currently have children but I work at a Children’s Hospital here in Southern California. I’m also the oldest of 5, so I kind of hope you have a boy, because I always wanted an older brother, even though I have 4.
I can’t wait to see you as a mamma, I hope you’ll keep blogging! Congratulations again!!
Congratulations! I have 2 girls, a 2 year old and a 5 month. I also didn’t find out the gender and my whole pregnancy it was hard not knowing but it was so magical when they were born. As far as morning sickness, eating sour things helped me a lot. Grapefruit, sour candies, baby gherkins, etc. and constantly snacking throughout the day actually helped me feel better even when you don’t feel hungry. My dr said that carbs might make you feel worse so small protein snacks like string cheese or a spoonful of peanut butter are best BUT just do what you can. I’ve followed you since you were undressed skeleton at Iowa!
I have 2 kids who are now mostly grown. Each pregnancy is different. With my oldest, I was sick daily (ALL DAY) almost through the second trimester. It finally let up around the start of month 6. With my second, I was nauseous through month 4, but only vomited 4 times.
Congrats!!! I had a feeling this announcement was coming, I’m so excited for you!!
I’ve got 2 boys (nearly 4 and newly 1!)…my first instinct is you’re having a girl!
Congratulations!!!! I knew something was up and was starting to worry about you. I have a 16 year old son, and I very vividly remember the “all day, everyday sickness” I experienced the first few months while pregnant with him. Ginger lollipops/hard candy helped, as well as pressure point wrist bands. I hope you start feeling better quickly! It can be miserable and scary being so sick while trying to keep your body nourished for your growing baby. We chose not to find out the gender as well, and I loved every part of that decision! It drove everyone else crazy, but that’s okay, sometimes it’s nice to not have every answer known right away. I thought I was having a girl, but I was wrong, lol, so the element of surprise was so fun. I think y’all are having a boy, but I don’t have the best guessing record, ha! I’m so happy for y’all! Y’all are gonna be such awesome parents!
First of all congratulations!! Amazing. You will be fantastic parents and that baby will be surrounded by so much love.
I just had my first this past spring. Spring is a beautiful time to have a baby! My pregnancy was fairly easy, I wasn’t too sick. I’m so sorry you’re feeling the way you are – really hope it gets better for you!
I unfortunately had some postpartum anxiety/depression. So my advice to you is that it’s okay and totally normal for things to not feel “sunshine’s and rainbows” those first few weeks. It is such a massive adjustment as well as an absolute hormone rollercoaster!
Advocate for yourself and your well-being. If things don’t feel right, reach out for help. Open communication with my husbands, family, and friends really helped me. Accepting any and all help offered. Telling people what you need. Your postpartum journey is about healing and bonding with that baby. When people come over to meet/snuggle baby – put them to work! It’s not your job to host while you’re healing. Whenever my family came they would do a load of dishes, or sweep the floor. Just a quick task that really helped me out in the long run.
Fortunately with a spring baby the weather was getting nicer and getting outside helped me immensely! Im so excited to see this beautiful journey you’re on. There’s no love like the love for your child. It’s indescribable.
I am crying happy tears for you!!!!! Congratulations!!! I kept checking to see if you had any new blog posts and I just kept thinking I hope she’s pregnant and just taking a break mentally and physically. Neutral baby gear is is the way to go (I have two children thirteen months apart one girl one boy). I hope you have one of each!!! You should definitely do a post about your nursery- I’m sure it’s going to be beautiful, baby gear (Chicco car seats I have loved and Bob stroller is unisex (for mom and dad) and great for running, mustella brand baby wash is all amazing especially the oil bath wash. Oh I just wish you and your growing family all the best and am glad that your break from posting was growing a baby inside you!!!!
Congratulations!! What a precious blessing! You will both be amazing parents! I have 2 boys, ages 3 and 1. Being a mana is the hardest and most rewarding job ever. True unconditional love!
I totally respect your decision to not share your child’s life on the internet. I would do the same. Will you be Sharing a pic of baby when they arrive?
So so happy for you guys! This will be your greatest adventure yet!
Hi I just wanted to say first of all congratulations I’m so happy for you, I’ve been following you since the beginning, you’ll be a great mom! And my guess is a girl. My question is this I have lost a significant amount of weight so I can get healthy enough to have a baby soon, so how are you managing to eat healthy and eat enough food for both you and the baby? And is there any food that you used to love but now is making you nauseous? Congratulations again!!💖💖
Hi, Lauren!
Honestly, healthy food is NOT appetizing for me. My food aversions are so bad that I look at a salad on Instagram and go running to throw up. I’ve just been eating what I crave because any food is better than no food. My doctor said it’s completely fine to put healthy food on the back burner and eat what I can. I don’t even like coffee! It makes me nauseous just smelling it. I haven’t wanted it for about two months now.
I’ve been eating peanut butter English muffins, lemon sorbet cups, McDonald’s french fries, chicken noodle soup and french baguette from Panera, wheat thins and pepper jack cheese slices, cantaloupe, greek yogurt, and granola bars. I laughed at myself thinking I would eat healthy during this pregnancy because my body/brain is like nope we’re not going that route. I’m totally fine with it. I am just SO GROSSED out by most food right now.
just a little word of encouragement, mama! I know it probably seems to be passing so slowly, but that little dumpling will be here before you know it, and all those sick moments will be a distant memory! You got this! Everyone is different, but sour candies and pretzels helped when I was getting through those queasy times! I have a 2 year old boy and he gets more fun and exciting every day! Hoping you can turn a corner soon and really enjoy the rest of your pregnancy, but everyone is different, and it’s okay to complain, you are creating a life! It’s not easy! 🙂
Congratulations!!! I thought you must be expecting, and its really good that you took time off to help yourself and baby rest and grow. I’ve been reading your blog for 10 years!!
I have four kids and yes every pregnancy is different! I think my all day sickness was the worst with my first. Do you mind if I offer some things I learned that may help you?
You can try switching your prenatal vitamin! I found some brands to be really hard on my stomache and made nausea way worse. Gummies were a win! You can also try eating plain baked potatoes. Don’t try to be a hero with nutrition, you’ll feel better probably by 5 months and then you can have all the vegetables. 🙂
You’re doing AMAZING. You and Kyle will be amazing parents and I am so happy to see how seriously you are taking your baby’s privacy. A really great book you can order for Kyle is ‘I Love my Daddy’ by Sebastien Braun. It is the sweetest!!
We will be here when you feel up to writing but understand that you need to take all the time you need to feel your best. I honestly wish I could talk to you and offer any help or guidance, but I know you are doing so well already. I send lots of love to you and Kyle. 💕
I was the same way, so so sick! My boss told me the only thing that worked for her was keeping a purse of nuts or other small snacks because a meal made her so sick. I felt that way almost my full pregnancy, minus a few weeks in the 2nd. Fingers crossed you get to feeling better & it doesn’t lay the full pregnancy!
I don’t have a big following on social media, but I like to post pictures of my not so little 4 yr old. I’ve come to realize that pictures from the back are my favorite for the internet so when we are out I will think about grabbing a shot of what we are doing but from a different internet safe perspective.
CONGRATS to you both & as much as I’ve loved following your journey for many many years, I’m excited to see how this new chapter unfolds for you 💙 My vote: boy!
Congrats I was just thinking about you yesterday and that youve been away and maybe you are pregnant! And you are! I am just 15 weeks along and I feel you. Sickness and tiredness is crazy bit we’ve got it Mama!
Congratulations! How exciting! I’ve just entered my 3rd trimester. This will be our first also🤗. Pregnancy is hard and a blessing at the same time. One thing that I always remind myself is that whatever I’m struggling with today won’t last. Just wait until you feel your baby kick! That’s another level of awesomeness lol🤗❤️😘
I actually hope you guys have twins – a boy and a girl. That would be the cutest and you and Kyle are going to make amazing parents. I was dreading finding a post saying you’re giving up blogging so I’m ECSTATIC that that isn’t the case ♡ I can’t wait for all the baby posts and I hope you start feeling better soon!
Omg I’m so excited for you!!! When are you due?!! I’ve followed you for almost 10 years now!
And I’m pregnant with my second due late April/early May!
Seriously girl! So excited for your journey!
I know you’ve mentioned in the past you have had body image issues. Have these been a problem with pregnancy? with the growing belly, gaining weight, difficulty eating like your normally would, because….pregnant, working out (presumably) being off your normal schedule, etc.
Not at all 😊 Pregnancy is about growing a baby and no matter how much weight I gain, it’s all worth it. I’ve really been listening to my body and embracing all of the changes. These past few years I have been in the best place with it comes to positive body image. I’m loving the extra fluff and being able to have some Mcdonalds fries! I love that my stomach has popped because it means my little baby is in there growing. I’m being as kind as I can to myself.
Ahh congrats!! So happy for you and your growing family! You are absolutely stunning! So sorry you haven’t been feeling great, I hope that gets better for you soon!
I am a new mom, my husband and I have a daughter who just turned one a few weeks ago! It’s actually still so odd to call myself a mom and it’s crazy how this year has flown, I still think of having a baby but I guess she is a toddler now already!!
Questions – so many! What are your plans for daycare/ balancing work when baby comes? Will you do anything to get your pups ready for baby? How are you staying present and mindful during your pregnancy? Do you have to deal with any restrictions with doctors due to you know what? For example is Kyle able to go to appointments? If so how are you coping/dealing with that?
(I haven’t read thru comments yet, so sorry if you’ve answered any of these already!)
I will go with your guess as a boy, trust your mama instinct! I didn’t have any idea until about 14 weeks and then I knew it would be a girl and I was right!
I love your perspective on how and what you plan to share as a mom! I can’t wait to read what you have to share! ❤️
Congrats to you both!! It’s crazy how time flies. I’ve been reading your blog since the beginning, back when I was single with no children. Now I’m married with two boys! Whatta ride, eh?! Enjoy the journey, Mama! I promise, those first trimester yukkies will go away.
CONGRATULATIONS! Having a baby is amazing! I have 5 kids and they are all such a joy <3 Have you talked to your doctor about Zofran? I used it with my last 3 babies and it helped so much! There are things you can do to help this not be so bad so definitely talk to your doctor. Good luck!
Aww Tara! This is such exciting news! I’m so freakin’ happy for you 🌻I don’t have any kiddos, but I have nieces and nephews. Whatever gender you have, I hope they’re healthy. Wishing you all the best and excited to follow along.
Congratulations! My husband and I kept the gender secret for both of our children as well and it was the best surprise ever! We have an almost three year old daughter and a 5 month old son now. Hearing my husband announce the gender when my children came into this world is a feeling I seriously can’t describe. It is a beautiful moment and I am so excited for you and your family!
Oh! I have been following you for years and I’m so excited for you- massive congrats!
I had my first child this year – a little boy who is now 5 months old. It’s definitely hard work but so worth it!
I lived off bland carbs and ginger tea first trimester- so much nausea.
I guess a little girl.
Congratulations 🥳 xx
We’re also not posting our son to social media too – some family don’t get it but seem to be respecting it so far. I always think we got to choose what we put online they should get the same option!
Hi Taralyn,
Live reading your blogs. Congratulations on your precious one on board…! <3 love hearing that you and your husband prayed and asked God for this baby. He is so gracious and so kind to answer our prayers.
I don't have children yet, but I also struggle with endometriosis. And I wondered if you ever battled with fear if you could get pregnant? And if so how did you overcome it?
Also will you still make a blog post about your actual wedding day? I was enjoying that series.
May God bless the next trimesters of your pregnancy dear sister <3
Congratulations! I’ve been reading your blog since you started and am so happy for the both of you!
I have a 4 year old son and was extremely sick most of my pregnancy. Though it did get better after the first trimester, it never really ended. They say when you are having a boy you experience more symptoms because of the difference in hormones?
I agree with wanting to keep your child’s life private. The internet is a big crazy world now and it should be up to them if they want them share their life.
Do whatever feels right for you. Congratulations again!
Congratulations to you both, I’m so excited for you and wish you all the best on this incredible journey! I hope the sickness eases up for you as well. Also thank you for being honest and not sugarcoating anything, and I’m looking forward to DIY nursery posts. I don’t have children yet though I did choose to freeze my embryos a few years ago due to having severe endo and have been considering getting a donor, and having a baby in the next year or so, I’m very thankful for my Parent support with this decision. One question I do have is has the pregnancy eased your endo or brought up any endo issues?
Hope you have an incredible day! And wishing you all the best, Thanks Harriet
I have been here since the beginning! I’m so so thrilled for you and your husband! I have 3 little girls ages 3 and under. It’s definitely a challenge, but being a mom is the most fulfilling job in the world! I had intense morning sickness with all 3 up until I was around 15-20 weeks. I hope it eases up for you soon.. my guess is a little girl! 💕
So excited for this big journey for you & Kyle! You’re amazing dog parents and I know you’ll be great human parents too!
We kept the gender a surprise too & it was so magical seeing my husband’s face as he told me “it’s a boy!” each time. It made going into labor less scary when I knew I’d get an exciting surprise at the end.
Yaaaayyyyy congrats! We’re having our first in May/June, so totally feel you on the first trimester woes. I always tell myself “this means it’s working!” (“it” being my body growing a baby). Congrats mama, can’t wait to follow along on this journey with you, especially after following you for YEARS! 🙂
Congratulations! I have a beautiful and WILD 17 month old baby girl named Madden! Parenting is truly such a gift that I thank God for every night. It will change your life COMPLETELY but in the BEST way possible. The joy is unexplainable. Congrats again!
Congrats Mama! I am 40 and grew up watching the baby story on TLC and it was all about the pregnancy glow and nothing about the not so shiny part of pregnancy. I had two babies and both had horrible “morning sickness” for 7 months! With my first I waited too long to get any help & relief from my ob-gyn. With my second I was like i need something for the vomiting & nausea ASAP! I hope you feel better sweetheart! Congrats again mama!
Hi Taralynn, congratulations! I was so happy when I saw this post! I cannot wait to read all of your posts and blogs regarding your pregnancy journey, as I am also due with my first in spring! What app have you found the most helpful so far?
Oh sweet Taralynn. I am so excited for you. I’ve been here since your very first post and grown with you. I’ve watched all of the heartbreak you’ve experienced and all the joy as well. I can not be more overjoyed for you. You and Kyle will be incredible parents. Sending you all the love
So many congratulations!!! You’re doing great with the all day sickness. I was blessed with that. All day, every day, right up up to two hours before I gave birth. Pickles, French fries, and coffee were all I’d keep down. I only have the one kidlet. He’s my miracle baby.
Congratulations!! I’m so excited for you, and I love that your blog will focus on your motherhood journey more than your baby’s childhood. That’s so smart and considerate. ❤️
1. My husband and I are expecting our first! We’re due in 4 weeks!
2. I’d love to hear whatever you want to share! Thanks for your honest perspective.
3. I think you’ll have a girl, and I’ll pray that you have a healthy baby. ❤️
Ahhhh that’s so exciting! 🙂 congratulations! I’m so happy for you two! I love reading your blog and have been doing so for several years now:)
Congratulations! I’ve been following along for so long and feel like I’ve watched you grow up! This is such an exciting next step. Motherhood is the most wonderful (and maybe hardest) thing. A little unsolicited advice from a mom of two who was soooo sick. Crackers in bed before getting up, and don’t be afraid to ask for Zofran. I tried to hold out, and tried it all, but that’s all that worked! Wondering if you’re going to show your child’s photo at all? I totally get the want for privacy but I also hope I can see them from time to time 😂
Congratulations!!! What wonderful news! I can SO relate to the “morning” sickness. I was sick all day, every day with both of my pregnancies until 20 weeks. I highly recommend asking your OB about Diclegis. I was a barf-er too and threw up several times a day. While I didn’t get total relief with the max dose of diclegis (really just a prescription for Vitamin B6 and Unisom), it definitely helped take the edge off. We, too, didn’t find out the gender and it was so fun, especially in the last few weeks leading up to their arrival. FYI- that myth that if you’re really sick means you’re having a girl does NOT hold true. 2 boys here!
Congratulations!! Babies are such a blessing! We had our first baby last year and he will be 1 this November! Excited to see you both transition into parent life! You get no sleep, get puked on and change endless diapers but the perks are having a chubby face that smiles at you and completely melts your heart! Prayers for a smoother pregnancy and healthy delivery!
Eek I am so excited about this!!
1. We had our first in March 2021…it has been the greatest and best adventure of my life! <3
2. No questions – but I hope you feel better soon! My morning/all day sickness did get better around the start of the 2nd trimester.
3. Boy mom all the way! 🙂 We shall see!
Congrats! I have a son who is almost 7. Having a child changes your life completely, in the most amazing way. You’ll wonder how you ever really existed before 🙂
I would look into making sure you are getting enough folate (not folic acid) and magnesium. If you have heard of wellness mama or look her up she has great advise on morning sickness (she’s had 6 kids).
congratulations taralynn! you will be such a good mom, the baby is so lucky!! I love that you are keeping your family privacy, i just became a mom this year and i have to say I enjoy time with my kiddo and less social media the most! I’ve become a big fan of taking less pictures, and printing the ones i have so i actually enjoy the memories we make as a family.
pregnancy sickness is the real deal. I actually stopped working because of it. At the time last year i was in an unhealthy work environment, so leaving because of morning sickness felt like an excuse, but now i realize it was just my body setting a limit and telling me ‘hey, lets do things that are healthy for you and your family’! I know not everyone is in a position where they can just leave their job, but i do think pregnancy is a great time to evaluate what your best lifestyle is, ive found that less is more and just enjoying time with my family have become the priority. Congratulations it is such a wonderful time in life!! (even if the pregnancy part isn’t the most fun :/)
This absolutely made my day when you first posted this, and I saw the update on Facebook. Ahh, I’m just over the moon excited for you friend! You’ve been my favorite blogger from the very beginning and have been the reason for me becoming one. It’s hard to believe it’s been 11 years! But you are going to be an amazing momma, I just know it. 🙂 I am very sorry you’ve had so much sickness, and I think I can speak for most of your readers that we always appreciate you keeping it real – no matter what the topic is. My hubby and I only have cats as our babies for now, so I have no idea what pregnancy is like, but I’m definitely looking forward to reading everything you post. I have no doubt it will help me when I become a momma someday. 🙂
Make Life Marvelous
Congratulations! I’ve been following you since the beginning and I’m so happy for you both! I’m currently pregnant with my second, due in June, and man, the first trimester just sucks the life out of you. I have sounds some relief with taking vitamin b6 and unisom together at night (recommended by my doctor).
Love that you’re not finding out the gender, it’s the best surprise ever!
Can’t wait to follow this journey 💕💙
Congratulations to you both ❤️
Are you still doing vlogmas and/or blogmas this year even tho you’re pregnant? I understand if you’re not, but I always get in the spirit while watching and reading your Christmas stuff, you’re such an amazing Christmas spirit spreader ❤️
Congratulations! God is good! I am so Happy for you and Kyle. I have been reading your blogs since Tumblr and thank you for sharing your journey with us. I am going to guess you are having a boy. Also rest and pamper yourself as much as possible during your pregnancy. Looking forward to see what kind of food cravings you have. Also prepare for crazy dreams if they are not already happening.
Vitamin B6 helps with morning sickness.
Team boy! Congratulations guys! It’s all worth it when the pregnancy ends, thank God, is right! I was sick with both of mine, half for my daughter but the entire time up until delivery day, with our son! All day, everyday! Birth day for him was the only day I didn’t vomit 😑😑
Can’t wait to find out about all of it! Thinking of you!
Congrats! So happy for you both! I have a 5 year old son, and I started following your blog when I was pregnant trying to adopt a healthier diet. I had a rough high risk pregnancy- and the best thing I can say- is listen to the doctors and your “tribe” BUT at the end of the day trust your own instincts- listen to your body. Only YOU know truly what your baby and your body need. Trust me it will all be worth it ❤️
You look beautiful and healthy in spite of everything.
Yes, you should tell the truth about pregnancy! Somewhere along the way, we started downplaying the physical challenges, and it’s led to younger generations being gobsmacked when reality hits!
I’m just glad your work allows you to take a break, and wish all pregnant women could. The sleepiness and exhaustion is a first trimester thing generally, so you will start feeling more like yourself soon.
Also . . .
Glad you will keep your child’s life private.
I’ve watched parents detail such private things about their offspring, and I feel so sorry for their children. One mother even documented her son’s gender dysphoria, but now he’s decided he’s a boy. Oh well, too late. His whole struggle is on the Internet for eternity, whether he likes it or not.
I think some parents are narcissists and will do anything for attention, including harm their own children if it gives them more “Likes”.
YAY
To be fair, your parents probably couldn’t have posted photos of you on an Internet that didn’t yet exist. 🙂 (But it’s genuinely great that you’re thinking about that so much and considering your kid’s future.) And just for the record, because this is actually a very important, meaningful distinction: it’s *sex*, not *gender* at this point in your fetus’s life. It would be great to see influential bloggers acknowledge that!
Congrats on your baby!!!! I have a now 8 month old baby girl and we also waited to find out the gender. It was so fun!!! Yet hard when wanting to buy cute outfits and not being able to. But I will never forget my husband looking at me and telling me that we have a daughter. That was a moment that I will never forget.
I do think some of this is complaining. As someone who had a miscarriage, I would spend every second of 9 months with my head in a toilet to have my baby back. Please be more delicate in what you decide to share. It’s hard to sympathize with you….