It has been a while since writing a recap blog. The last time I left off, I was pregnant, and now I’m sitting here with a baby sound asleep on my chest. I used to be able to write these blogs in a few hours, but today, it’s taken me almost the entire day. Bugs (the nickname we have somehow started calling him, along with “bug bug” and “buggy”) wakes up every hour or two needing a feeding, a diaper change, entertainment, and then a lot of soothing to get him back down to sleep. I’m absolutely in love with him, and every moment is worth it. It’s true when people say, “they grow up so fast.” He looks like a new person every day.
Because it’s been a while, I didn’t know where to jump in. I figured I’d give a little recap of what I’ve been up to the past few weeks (in no particular order), and next week I’ll be able to keep everything more organized since I’ll be somewhat caught up. I still have a lot of blogs to catch up on, including the nursery blog that will go live this week!
I keep adding to the list of blog posts I need to write. I’m working on a post about how I managed to get our family on a consistent schedule. Since we brought Bugs home, I’ve worked on getting him to have the same time feedings, bathtime, naps, tummy time, walks, and more. Sticking to the routine has made everything much easier around here. I’ve had so many questions on Instagram asking about how I can get up early in the morning for walks, and it’s honestly the schedule! He sleeps at the same time each night, from 8 pm to 1 am and 2 am to 5:30 am. Once we finish his morning routine, we head out the door with Leo for our walk. The first few weeks were much more challenging since I was waking up with him every one to two hours, but now it’s smooth sailing, which I know will change as he gets older and sleep regression kicks in. I’ll make a blog soon about our schedule and the apps I’ve been using to help.
We did our first restaurant outing this weekend, and it was a success. It took us a few attempts to leave the house, but we made it out with a sleeping baby. We tried out the new Ilios Crafted Greek restaurant down the road from us, and it was delicious. The owners were so nice and friendly. I had the Ilios salad with chicken, and it was phenomenal. We also split the baklava, one of my favorite desserts, which was incredible. I’m going to pick up ingredients tomorrow to make homemade baklava.
Kyle’s mom visited us a few weeks ago, and it was so fun to have her here with her new grandson! We took a short trip to the local farmers market to grab coffee at Humble cup and walk around since it was gorgeous outside.
I was running out of shows to watch in the middle of the night when I was up with Bugs, so I decided to start watching The Real Housewives of Dallas. I wanted to have it on for background noise, but I got completely hooked. I’ve been watching it all week and cannot get enough. This was the first Real Housewives series I’ve watched, and now I feel like I will have to start another! You’ll have to let me know which RH to watch next.
My mom made homemade banana bread and brought it over for breakfast, which was delicious! I love her joining us on our walks; seeing her with her grandson is so special. She’s so in love with him! Once he gets a little older and the weather cools down, we’ll take him to all the fun spots! Is it crazy that I’ve already been thinking about his Halloween costume? The first Halloween is a big deal, and he’ll be six months.
It has blown my mind how amazing the dogs are with their new brother. Not going to lie; I was a little nervous about Leo. He’s high energy and super clingy to me. However, I should have known better because he changed a lot during my pregnancy. He no longer jumped up on me and was super gentle. Now, he likes to hang out with us, but he keeps his distance and is delicate. If Bugs starts to cry, Leo will try to alert me, or he’ll lay near his Snoo to protect him. Tux does a little bit of that as well. He loves coming up and sniffing him, and he’ll start to cry if Bugs begins to cry. He’s so interested in him and has even made his way into our loft area, which was a first. Kyle still walks Tux every morning to keep him on his routine, and Leo comes with me and the stroller. It’s been a very smooth transition.
We had our very first pool day at my parent’s house! He loves baths and will fall asleep in them but was not so fond of the pool. He didn’t like the cold water, so I held him while hanging out under the umbrella, and he eventually got used to the water on his legs. I purchased baby swim shoes next time to see if they would help him ease into the cold water. It will be so fun once he gets older and loves going to the pool. I feel I’ll have to take him daily, which I’m OK with.
Baby Sunglasses // Sun Hat // Baby Swimsuit // Pool Float // Swim Diapers // Swim Shoes
Since returning from the hospital, I’ve only been craving my pre-pregnancy diet. I want all the salads, grilled salmon, chicken, roasted vegetables, smoothies, and fruit! When I was pregnant, none of that sounded good, and if you even mentioned those foods in my first trimester, it triggered my sickness. I’m happy to be back on the healthy eating routine again because it makes me feel much better. There’s no way I’d have the energy to take care of a newborn if I ate the way I did while pregnant. I still have about 25-30 pounds to lose (I gained 50 lbs while pregnant!), but I’m giving my body time to heal and letting the weight hopefully come off with a healthy amount of exercise and a good diet this year. There’s no rush to get back to my pre-pregnancy size, but I’m doing a little something each day to get me there slowly. Right now, I only care about taking care of my sweet baby boy! I love my one-on-one time with the pups in the morning!
Leo has loved the 6 am walks. We can’t do it anytime after that because it gets too hot! We got lucky last week because it hovered around 64-degrees in the mornings. We usually do about two miles before the sun comes up. Sometimes I’ll drop them off at home and finish a solo mile. Kyle and I decided to take little Bug Bug to the pool on Sunday morning. It was so nice out, and we had the entire pool to ourselves. I mean, who goes to the pool at 7 am on a Sunday? He was cute in his little swim outfit, but he still hated cold water. I don’t blame him because I didn’t want to get in the chilly water there, either.
He enjoyed taking a nap in the pool chair with me instead. I finally had salmon for the first time in nine months. That was the one food I could not reintroduce into my pregnancy diet after the first trimester. It just made me so sick thinking about it. Now, I love it again! I always cook it in the air fryer, make the roasted vegetables in the oven, and toss a salad together for a side.
Anytime my mom stops over for a walk, I always make us lunch or breakfast, and we sit around playing with Bugs. Surprisingly, he loves tummy time, which most babies do not. He has great head control and can already keep his head up. The pediatrician was amazed at his control. I try to do tummy time with him twice a day, and he prefers to be on his stomach when he’s sleeping on me.
I’ve been making turkey or chicken sandwiches a lot lately. I use the Daves Killer Bread with protein, lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, mustard, and avocados.
I’m back and loving my protein oats! I make these with 1/4 cup of oatmeal, 1/2 cup of water, one scoop of protein powder, one cup of blueberries, cinnamon, and a tablespoon of creamy peanut butter. The directions for this are on my Tiktok. It’s so filling and delicious. Sometimes, I make this for dinner.
Some of the ladies on my street got together for dinner on Friday night, and I decided to join them. I figured getting out of the house for a bit was a good idea. Even though I had a blast, I missed my little Bug the entire time.
We had dinner at Tony’s Cantina Mexican Grill in Rock Hill, which was amazing!
I try to spend some time with Leo and Tux since Kyle has taken over their responsibility this past month. Leo loved his pool time, so I set up the chairs and watched him fetch balls in and out of the pool for a few hours. He could do this all day, and it’s an excellent exercise for him. Tux is afraid of the pool, but he constantly surprises us, so maybe one day he’ll join Leo. He used to confine himself to his bed in the living room, but now he’s running and lying all over the house. I love to see it!
One of my favorite smoothies lately has a frozen banana, almond milk, ice, unsweetened cocoa powder, and peanut butter! I love having it after my walks.
We have been going to the grocery store once a week and cooking at home a lot! We make dinner around 4:45 pm and start the bedtime routine around 6 pm. Little Bug is usually asleep by 8 pm, and then I go to bed as soon as he does to ensure I’m also getting sleep. I thought the schedule would be tough to follow, but now I look forward to the organized routine. The first few weeks when everything was chaotic were tough since I was recovering while getting little sleep. During the first month, Kyle made all the meals, but now that we have an established schedule, I can cook my favorites again. I missed cooking!
Bathtime is his FAVORITE. I bathe him every other day, and he goes into a trance. He is obsessed. I had a postpartum cart (I’ll blog about that later!) that I turned into a bathtime cart. It has all his bath cloths, toys, hair brushes, water thermometer, cleansing products, and towels. It’s nice to have because as soon as I do his laundry, I fold them and put them on the cart. These bibs I bought on Amazon have also been incredible for bottle feeding. They save me from doing multiple loads of laundry and are easy to snap on. I also use face wipes to keep his face clean and rash-free.
Bathtub // Turtle Bath Cushion // Bandana Bibs // Turtle Thermometer// Cart // Hair Brush // Bath Toys // Bath Towels
He LOVES this outdoor lounger. I bought it to hang out with him while watering the flowers. When it’s nice and cool in the mornings, I sit outside with him while drinking my coffee. Leo loves to watch over to make sure he stays safe! The material on this lounger remains nice and cool. I bought a mosquito stroller net to place on top, just in case it’s a buggy day.
Every morning, Kyle brings my coffee upstairs with a muffin while I’m feeding Bugs. I wake up around 5 am, so I’m always super hungry and need coffee before heading out on my walk. These blender muffins have been so amazing! I make a weekly batch each Sunday and use my chocolate chip blender bar recipe. I add them to a greased, non-stick muffin pan.
I had the clear from the doctor to move forward with light exercise, so I finally started my 3-mile walks again! Of course, it’s during the hottest time of the year. I made sure to keep up with walking while pregnant, but it will take a long time to get back to my original pace and mileage. My joints and muscles feel like they haven’t been used in years, and I’m so stiff after walking. I plan to start hot yoga here soon to help with my flexibility and strength.
I’m excited to get back into blogging, even if it takes a while to write these! ♥️ I plan to work on editing the nursery photos today and will have that blog up this week. xo xo
Questions for you!
- What are you most looking forward to this week?
- Are there any types of blogs you’d like to see from me?
- I’m looking for some new dinner ideas. What have you been cooking up lately?
Laura says
RH of Dallas is my favorite! It got canceled and I’m so sad!
Salt Lake is a good one and I love Jersey. Jersey’s been on for some time, so you really need to invest in all the seasons. Lol
Taralynn says
I am so sad it’s canceled. I have a few episodes left I’m trying to watch slowly 😢
I hear Salt Lake is good!!
Jennifer says
We are headed to Sunset Beach this week for a long weekend 🙌🙌 the weather will be perfect!!
I just love the recaps so much. Gardening blogs and basically everything is fine with me 😂
Dinner – tortilla pizzas, grilling (burgers, chicken, smoked andioulle sausage) with veggies, tacos!
I’m so happy you’ve got a routine and everything is going so well! Congratulations again, I love the pups are so sweet with Bugs (such a cute nickname), too!! Have a great week, Tara & Fam!! 💕
Taralynn says
Hi, Jennifer!
I love Sunset Beach! You’re going to have a blast 😊
Ohhh tacos sound delicious. Maybe I’ll make that!
Thank for stopping by to read, and I’m so happy to have the recaps back again! 😊
Ellie says
Hi Tara,
I do not mean to come across as rude, just sharing:
Are you going to ever share a picture or his name? As a longtime follower of the blog, it’s hard to make a connection with your bundle of joy with no information. I know we are not entitled to the information, but it comes across as if you think you are at celebrity status like Kristen Bell or Kristin Cavalerri who block out their childrens faces. I don’t want to come off rude, just a disappointed follower for many years.
Taralynn says
Hi, Ellie
I’ve mentioned many times that I do not feel comfortable sharing my son’s name/picture on the blog when I have millions of readers stopping by each month (mostly strangers to me.) There shouldn’t be any surprise as I’ve made it clear since the very first pregnancy blog post. EVERYONE (not just celebs) are entitled to their privacy, especially my son, who did not sign up to be plastered all over the internet. Children deserve consent when it comes to social media. I know many bloggers who are comfortable sharing their children with the world, and one of those blogs may be more up your alley since it’s the children you are interested in. Let me know if you need some suggestions. I’m not asking for you to make a connection with my son since this isn’t his blog, and making a connection with a stranger’s child is weird to me. I’m OK with the disappointment as I don’t intend on pleasing everyone in life.
Wishing you the best,
Taralynn
Aleah Messer says
It’s a breath of fresh air to see a blogger protect their children instead of making money off the exploitation. Bravo to you my friend.
Taylor says
I really respect your decision regarding your child’s privacy and consent regarding social media. So happy to hear how wonderful this new phase of life has been! And, of course, always love seeing the pups and all of your delicious food ideas!
Taralynn says
Thank you, Taylor! 💜
Lia says
Congrats!!!
1) the weekend
2) I’d like to see more recipes and how you juggle your new routine
3) buffalo chicken stuffed peppers- easy, healthy, delicious and you can freeze them
Taralynn says
Ohhhhhh that sounds amazing! I need that recipe! 😋
Lia says
https://whitneybond.com/buffalo-chicken-stuffed-peppers/
I use turkey, just as good
Taralynn says
Thank you! Can’t wait to try this.
Kari says
So I actually think you’re very smart to not share any details, as celebrities aren’t the only people who need to be concerned about child safety. Your life is understandably consumed with new motherhood, and that’s great and how it should be! As a dry longtime reader though, it feels like it will be very difficult for you to thrive and be successful in continuing to create your same recap/daily life content. It’s hard to connect with a daily life blogger or content creator when every other picture is a baby with no face. Bloggers and other influencers who have been successful in keeping their children private typically have a different content focus.
Taralynn says
Hi, Kari
Many other bloggers have different intentions with their blogs, social media accounts, and so on. I have actually stopped doing sponsored blogs because being “successful” isn’t really my motive as a blogger anymore. If money and fame were my priority, I would be a lot more proactive about this industry. I have been blogging for 12 years+, and I’m not a big fan of how it has evolved, which is why I stick to what I enjoy, and if it does well good, and if it doesn’t that’s fine, too. I think people are so used to bloggers trying to compete with one another for the best content, the most sponsors, and so on. That stuff isn’t important to me, which is why I make the decisions for myself, even if that means I’m not “thriving.” My blogs are more than just recaps, and the recipes, garden posts, and so on are where most of my evergreen revenue comes from, so I think I’ll be just fine. My child’s safety is much more important than being a blogger, but thank you for the input!
Kari says
I get that! I was under the impression this was your career/important source of income for you but I’m happy for you that you’re in a place where you can do what feels right for you and your family <3
Sarah says
As a ten year reader of your blog, I will always support your decisions. I admire your decision to protect the identity of your little one.
Macie says
You’re smart for keeping his face and name off the internet and these trolls prove your point. Your blogs will never be boring and I will always come back each day for more. I make your chocolate chip cookies with cranberries once a month. I love your posts tara
M says
Tara,
Your response to that rude message was one of the most eloquently worded ways to give someone the middle finger I have ever read. Congratulations on your beautiful little bug and thank you for continuing to share *your* individual life with those of us who have been following your journey/life throughout the years.
Kinsley says
“I don’t want to come off as rude”
*comes off as rude*
Pointless says
Totally agree with you. A nameless, faceless baby is boring.
Taralynn says
And there are plenty of other blogs to follow! ♥️ I could care less what a stranger thinks of my decision to protect my child’s right to their privacy.
Rebecca says
Hi Tara, I just need to say your reply to Kari was very “adult” and ON POINT. Thank you for putting LOVE first. Greed is destructive. And you and your family are too precious. Thank you for replying in a kind way that makes TOTAL sense. I’m really happy 4 u and your husband. Continue to enjoy everything.
LOVE to u and all
You’ve grown up into a truly beautiful and whole woman. You’re already off to a great start as a Mommy. And probably gonna make it look so easy. : )
Congratulations
Lorri says
You don’t speak for all of us.
We are not entitled to anything about her child. And there was plenty to this blog post, so I don’t know what you found boring about it.
Lydia says
I love reading your blogs no matter what you choose to share. I wouldn’t pay these commenters much attention in the future.
Amanda says
Where did you get your cute swimsuit cover up?
Taralynn says
Target a few summers ago! 😊
Katie says
So excited to have you back to blogging! I can’t wait to hear about everything you’ve been getting up to. It sounds like you’ve got a great routine going with your little one.
Taralynn says
Thank you, Katie! Feels good to get back into the swing of things!
Janet says
Awww I miss the days of snuggling with a tiny baby! They go by so fast – soak up every single second!
Congrats on getting a routine down – that was the hardest part for me!
Taralynn says
You’re not wrong about that! He’s growing so much already 😢 luckily, he’s a cuddle bug!
Samantha says
So excited to see your blogs are back! I would be super interested in hearing about your current routine as a family. As a fellow mom to a 1 month old, I’m currently struggling with trying to implement the right one!
Taralynn says
Hi, Samantha!
Congrats on your new addition! I will write up a “day in the life” type of blog with our routine, and share what helped to get us there!
krista says
Definitely recommendations– for scheduling and similar sort of time organization stuff, but also books or ‘stuff’. We are TTC and while I have a lot of experience in working with kids, the idea of taking care of a baby 24/7 feels daunting. Maybe also how your schedule changed, etc.
This week, I’m looking forward to not this weekend, but next weekend, when we can FINALLY paint the bathroom. We have to finish mudding the drywall around the tub/shower this week, then sand, but we’ve been going with one usable bathroom for a while while renovating our hall bathroom, hitting roadblocks along the way (and needing to order things from Amazon that haven’t been available at Lowes’ or Home Depot). Once painting is done, we’ll put in the flooring then finally the new toilet. Our house is over 20 years old and had a lot of band-aid solutions, so the full remodel is a big deal! 🙂
I have to say, I’ve jumped on the cowboy caviar trend that’s apparently all over tiktok? Also good has been eating bird food’s chickpea greek salad. We’ve been having these and salads like these alongside burgers (veggie and impossible/beyond) or with sides of roasted vegetables or something. Also good have been sheet tray dinners (or things like it), where you roast a bunch of veggies and whatever on a sheet pan; we like doing this for tacos! It’s just getting trickier now as it was a hundred degrees yesterday and I did not want to turn on the oven. I ended up making cookie and kate’s peanut soup, which sounds insane for the weather, but somehow it worked, and we avoided having to turn on the oven!
Taralynn says
Hi, Krista!
Those are all great suggestions. It really does sound daunting, but totally manageable as long as there is organization and a good partnership! I look forward to writing this blog.
Wow those are all awesome projects you have coming up. Remodeling is tough, but the outcome is so worth it!
Cowboy caviar? I need to get on that side of tiktok lol
Kelsey W. says
Hi Taralynn! So happy to hear that you, Kyle, the pups and little Bug have been getting acclimated 🙂 you are absolutely glowing!
This weekend my boyfriend and I celebrate our 6 year anniversary by heading to Shenandoah National Park! Can’t wait for lots of hiking and yummy eats in Harrisonburg & Charlottesville. In terms of your blogs, I just simply love your recaps! I’ve been reading them for 5 years and look forward to them each and every time 🙂 for dinner lately I have been OBSESSED with Salt & Lavender’s lemon chicken orzo soup: https://www.saltandlavender.com/lemon-chicken-orzo-soup/ I add so much lemon and swap the parsley with dill. So delicious!
I hope you have a great weekend! xo Kelsey
Taralynn says
Thank you, Kelsey!
I’m feeling so much better, and absolutely LOVING every moment as a mom.
Happy anniversary to you guys! What a fun way to celebrate! Charlottesville is STUNNING!
& I always look forward to your sweet comments on each recap blog! 😊
I will have to check out that recipe, especially since I’ve been craving soup lately! I love your idea of swapping out the parsley for dill.
I hope you have a fabulous anniversary! xo xo Safe travels!
Kiri says
I loved reading this recap. All of the pictures of the food looked delicious, maybe I’m a little hungry. I loved hearing and see all the different ways that you’ve interacted with Bugs (an adorable nickname btw. We call our little one that I’m currently pregnant with Little Duck).
What I’m looking forward to this week is actually this weekend. Hubby and I are starting the nesting phase and are doing projects around the house. We’re going to be installing some much needed shelving in our kitchen area to help utilize the space before Little Duck comes at the end of August. Then it’s on to decluttering the bedroom and setting up the crib (Little Duck will be staying in our room with us).
I would love to see more blogs on your life as a mom. Different activities you do with Bugs. I used to work in child care but that is so different than being at home with a baby. I would also love to see more on your nighttime nursing routine.
Taralynn says
Hi, Kiri!
OMG! Little Duck! That is so cute. You better get one of those little duck bath towels! I bought Bugs a puppy one.
I’m so excited for you, and this weekend is going to be so fun for you and your husband! A great way to bond and spend some time together before your sweet little duck arrives.
I will for sure share that! ♥️ Enjoy your weekend!
Kiri says
We will for sure! It’s like a requirement for us to get one that is duck themed.
Our shelves turned out better than we thought. I love them so much. My husband did a great job putting them up.
Sarah says
So glad to have your blogs to read! I am 20 weeks pregnant with our first child and am definitely looking forward to reading about the different things that do and don’t work for you and your family in this new stage of life!
Taralynn says
Ahh congrats, Sarah! You’re halfway there! 😊
Kaitlyn Leger says
Hi Taralynn,
It looks like you are settling into motherhood beautifully. I will say that having a routine is SO key with littles. I literally have alarms set in my phone for the evening…dinner time, bathtime, snuggling on the couch, bedtime, etc…otherwise the evening completely slips away from me after working all day. I’m looking forward to next week when my summer vacation starts and I can spend more time with my kids again.
1. What are you most looking forward to this week?
I’m going camping with my husband, our one year old son, and our three year old daughter for father’s day. We did it two years in a row for his gift, but then we had our little boy last June 2, so camping didn’t happen with a brand new baby. We love to disconnect from internet and social media and just spend quality family time together! Next week, my last day of work is Wed and I don’t go back again until 8/30!! I miss spending my entire day with my kids so I’m REALLY looking forward to this!
2. Are there any types of blogs you’d like to see from me?
I’m getting an air fryer at my friend’s Pampered Chef party next week and I’m looking for more ideas of what to cook in it. I was totally inspired by your salmon, but I’m a little bit at a loss for what else I want to cook! Maybe a short post about your favorite air fryer recipes? Or links to other posts you already created? Also, even though this is not blog related, I really miss your “Clean with Me” videos…any chance of seeing another one of those? I love to play them while I clean my own house!! It motivates me to keep going lol
3. I’m looking for some new dinner ideas. What have you been cooking up lately?
Now that summer is basically here, we have been breaking out the grill again. Lots of hamburgers, hotdogs, steak and veggie skewers, grilled corn, grilled pineapple, pasta salad, etc. There’s nothing like just making something on the grill and then having dinner on the deck and listening to all the birds!
BONUS:
Post whatever makes you comfortable, mama! Share as much or as little of your son as you want to share with an internet world of strangers. While I would also love to know his name and see his little face, at the end of the day you are entitled to your own privacy and your family is 100% entitled to their own privacy too. It’s ok to change your mind and share more, and it’s also ok to change your mind and share less. I’ll still look forward to your posts no matter what 💕
By the way, I love that your nickname for him is Bugs…We call our son Bubba and Bubs and it made me think of my own little boy since the names are so similar!
Looking forward to the next post
Kat xoxo
Taralynn says
Hi, Kat!
Thank you for your sweet words and it means so much to me to have that kind of support. ♥️ Bubs is lucky to have a mama like you!
You’re going to have so much fun on your camping trip! I cannot wait to take Bugs camping one day. What a great way to spend time with your family. Have so much fun and be safe!
Oh that would be a great blog post. I love my airfryer! 😊 We have also been LOVING the grill. Kyle found one that fits perfectly in the garage instead of a bulky one on the porch, so now we get all the grilled foods.
I think clean with me videos can definitely make a comeback 😉
Have the best weekend, and thanks again for the kindness! xo
Kelsey says
I’m so glad you’re getting back into a long blog again (totally understandable if you weren’t, though). I have been following your blog for nearly 10 years now and am so excited to see you so happy and with such a lovely family!
Taralynn says
Awww! Thank you, Kelsey!! ♥️
Sarah says
Love all your updates! It sounds like you have a dream baby who sleeps well! So glad you can get into a routine that works for you!
How is breastfeeding going?
Taralynn says
Thanks, Sarah!
He definitely sleeps amazing as long as his day stays on track!
Breastfeeding isn’t going as amazing as I planned. I really wanted to exclusively BF but the retained placenta surgery, really put a stop to having a larger milk supply. Right now, I’m doing half breast milk/half formula because I do not produce enough.
Nora says
He is so cute! Happy to see the dogs are fond of their new brother 😍 your routine sounds great, those phases of strictness really help in between the phases of chaos during the first few weeks, when sleep regression hits, teething… etc.
And haha, salmon was an absolute no-go for me each pregnancy! Other aversions got better after 20-ish weeks, but salmon took me weeks even post-partum to be ok with again (and other orange foods as well – sweet potatoes! I wanted to destroy every single one on the planet, lol).
1 – We are getting the second batch of new windows installed this week, and then slowly our hardwood flooring should start to arrive as well by the end of the week. We picked hand-scraped white oak planks and it’s so gorgeous. I’m way too excited!
2 – Write about whatever inspires you! Those are the best. And I always love the weekly recaps because it’s a little spark of old-school blogging that I truly miss so much.
3 – I’ve been in a total dinner slump for a few months now. I just have very little patience for elaborate meals, but maybe that’s because I run several food blogs and cooking is my full-time job 😅 and we have been in a makeshift kitchen since March – though we are slowly getting there with our remodel, and our very amazing new kitchen should be finished in another 6 weeks or so. I’m hoping I’ll be excited to cook again, but in the summer heat it’s mostly salads and grilled meats anyways.
You look amazing by the way! You radiate happiness. I’ve been following you from the very beginning, back on Tumblr. It’s so good to see where life is taking you. 💜
Taralynn says
Hi, Nora!
Ahhhh teething has me worried lol but I’ve prepared myself by buying all the remedies! Hoping at least something can bring him ease when it does happen. I know it’s all temporary 😢
OH MY! I hated sweet potatoes during my pregnancy, too! I liked the fries after thought. That is hilarious.
Ahhh that is going to be stunning!
I really love the old school blogging and feel like no one does it anymore! I love it too much to stop.
Salads and grilled food over here too!
Thank you so much for the kind words! I can’t believe it’s been that long. Ohhhh the TUmblr days 😆
Mackenzie says
Yay a recap!! So fun to read this!! We have so many similarities postpartum- I’m craving turkey sandwiches something fierce w/ same toppings you listed, and I also started a housewives franchise (NJ!). Also my girl loves Tummy Time too! Although sometimes it turns into nap time 😂
Bugs is an adorable nickname! I so wish I could have a schedule like that, but our girl won’t sleep in her bassinet (we also bought a Snoo so I’m a bit bummed about this). But maybe in the next couple weeks she’ll take to it, we keep trying! 🤞🏻
Food looks amazing as ever!!! Thank you for sharing!!
Taralynn says
Hi, Mackenzie!
That is so funny! You’ll have to start the Dallas one next. It’s so good! The characters are 10/10!
Thank you! 😊 Bugs isn’t a HUGE fan of the Snoo during the day, but I put him in it at night. Have you tried not turning it on? Or turning off the sounds? Hopefully, that works.
Congrats on your little one!
LC says
Would really love to hear how you got into a routine, especially sleep with your little one as I’m a mommy to a three week old girl myself!! Thanks so much and you honestly look amazing already
Taralynn says
Thank you, LC! Congrats on your baby girl!!
KJ says
Congrats! Such an exciting time in life 🎉🎉
Love babes’ nickname, thanks for sharing! It’s fun to have a safe nickname & blog name for him, that still protects his privacy. Internet safety for children/everyone is so important! The internet is a scary place! I plan to do the same & I don’t even have an internet following. Keep all the sweet privacy protecting pics coming! Love to see them 💕
Content I’d to see/continue to see:
-gardening! (Tips, tricks, design?? Cannot figure out how to lay out a garden for the life of me..I just buy pretty things and cram them together)
-any DIY’s/life hack things you find helpful or fun
-recipes
-recaps
-any adjustment to motherhood you feel comfortable sharing
-decor & design
-& of course the pups!
For meals I’ve been eating tons of wraps, seasonal salads & veggie/egg scrambles. My husband also rolls crescent rolls with scrambled eggs/veggies & then baked them. so great to have for a quick breakfast or solid morning snack! & oddly been living up on classic PB&J’s lately. Yum.
Taralynn says
Hi, KJ!
Thank you 😊 It’s funny how a nickname just comes out of nowhere, but it’s so fitting for him.
I appreciate your kind words. I strongly agree with you about internet safety for kids. I don’t think people understand how dangerous it is to exploit kids on social media platforms. It doesn’t matter how many people are “following” or not.
I love all the blog ideas. Thank you!!
We’ve been eating pretty much the same foods lol Wraps, eggs, and salads. You can’t go wrong with a classic PB&J!!
Lauren says
You have to do Real Housewives of New York next. I love all of them for various reasons but NY is ICONIC!
Taralynn says
Adding it to the lineup!!
Lorri says
I was so busy, I didn’t get a chance to comment on your birth story, so CONGRATULATIONS!
It sounds like things are going amazingly well and you have taken to parenthood like a duck takes to water.
A baby who likes tummy time and baths is unusual!
Taralynn says
Thank you, Lorri!
I look forward to the baths because it’s his therapeutic time lol
Addie says
Congrats to you and your husband on your sweet baby! I am so glad you are protecting his privacy!!! You are doing the right thing. Your blog is always wonderful and fun to read!
Taralynn says
Thank you, Addie! ♥️
Trish L says
I love the nick name Bugs! So cute! I’m glad you’re not stressing about the baby weight! BFing will definitely get rid of any extra weight slowly over the next few months so keep on enjoying your time with your little one without worrying. In fact when I stopped BFing my son at 18 months I gained 5 lbs back in a week (it stopped there) but I almost wished I had went longer just for that benefit 😂 I love the cute little outfits you’re putting him in also! Idk why people are stressing about seeing his face. Your real followers are perfectly happy with the little clips of your life you are willing to share with us and have no desire to see any more information than you feel comfortable giving! ❤️
Taralynn says
Thanks, Trish!
It’s so important to give yourself some grace and be proud of the little life created! Dressing him is so fun lol
I appreciate the kind words, too! Means a lot!! xo xo xo
Marie says
I recently checked back in on your blog after a while (I was a regular reader from very early on, like 11 years ago). It’s great to see you doing so well and so happy!
Like others have said, I love that you have maintained a similar format; I’ll definitely keep coming back for this “old school” blogging.
And just another voice to say you are very wise to maintain the privacy of your little one. The edited pictures are still adorable! The comments that say otherwise are very strange to me, and they clearly affirm your decision!
Best wishes to you and your family!
Taralynn says
Hi, Marie!
So happy you came back to catch up! I love the old-school blogging! Isn’t that what blogging is supposed to be? 😔
Thank you for that! I don’t understand the obsession with other people’s kids.
XO XO
Shelby says
I can understand peoples curiosity regarding the name of your child etc. but I can’t understand some peoples entitlement – like you owe it to them to share more than you are comfortable with. It was good to see a new post from you and I’m excited for the upcoming ones too 🙂 you look so happy!
Taralynn says
Thank you, Shelby! ♥️
Valerie says
It’s very adorable to see Leo welcome the new baby. Just wanted to mention I think you look great after just having a baby.
I hope you keep the old-style blogging-recap posts; they are my favorite.
Tonight, I’m making chicken Pho, but it’s been cooler where I live. Burgers and fresh fruit are also on the menu.
Taralynn says
Thank you, Valerie! ❤️
You can’t go wrong with burgers with these temps!
Trina says
I am also a long time follower of your blog and agree with not caring for the way blogging has evolved. It is that very reason that yours is the only one I have followed consistently through the years. I stumbled across your blog years, years, years ago at a low time in my life. You were doing a lot of running at the time and I was inspired to get up and get moving. The best thing about your blog is the consistent inconsistency, if that makes sense. Whether you are cleaning your house, cooking, gardening or going for a walk, the variety is entertaining and I always seem to find a new idea for my own house, garden, dinner or some motivation to get off my hiney and take a walk! I love that you are not trying to sell me something, and even when you had sponsored posts they always felt genuine. You are relatable in so many ways as opposed to blogs with only recipes (surely they will run out of ways to fix chicken at some point LOL!), or extreme fitness (children, no children, job, no job, who has time for all of that?) and general unrealistic lives.
I have continued to enjoy checking in as your life evolves into new chapters. Today when I read your recap all I could think was “how does she have so much energy with a new baby!” I am glad you have given us a glimpse, but I 100% agree with your decision to keep your child’s life relatively private. I am just relieved that you are continuing with the blog! Wishing you nothing but the best.
Sincerely,
A long-time fan
Taralynn says
Trina,
This was one of the sweetest comments to read this morning. It definitely gave me the motivation I needed this Monday! I am so happy to hear you say all of that because that is my goal as a blogger. I, too, used to have favorite blogs that have turned into complete Amazon pages. I miss the old-school blogging and I’m happy to hear that you still enjoy it and that some little things I do can inspire you. That is what I love about reading other blogs or watching Youtube. I love getting inspired to do things, no matter how small.
Thank you for giving me the push I needed to keep blogging! ❤️
Kelila says
I’m due with my first baby later this summer! We were gifted the Mockingbird stroller at our baby shower. I see you have the infant carriage – we are deciding between that and the (much less expensive) infant insert. What are your thoughts on the carriage? Are you and baby enjoying it? Congratulations!
Taralynn says
Hi, Kelila!
Congrats on your new arrival! How exciting. We are LOVING the bassinet. I usually get Bugs fed, changed, and soothed back to sleep so he naps in the bassinet the entire walk. It’s super spacious for him, and we will probably use it for the next few months. I also love that I can put it downstairs and set him in it when I’m working.
Freshi says
Hi Taralynn,
my beautiful son was also born on 8th of May, on Mother’s day! :’)
I really love reading your posts (I follow your blog since the Tumblr days, I think I said that once haha. I sometimes check several times a day to see if there is a new post – I don’t have instagram etc. – this sounds addictive – maybe it is, but this just shows how much I like your blog). First I go through the photos and then through the text, haha.
It’s lovely to read about Bug! My son also likes tummy time 🙂
I would really(!!!) love to read about your routines and schedule with little Bug and hear some tips!
We haven’t really established a set schedule yet… and I also know that it depends on the baby. I was told to just go with what the baby wants. But having a few routines would be nice. We are working on it, haha.
By the way, love that you keep him private 🙂 You go, Girl!
Taralynn says
Hi, Freshi!
Congrats. What an amazing day to have a baby and celebrate motherhood. Seems like we’re on the same paths right now!
Thank you for those kind words. I cannot believe it’s been that long since those tumblr days. Happy you’re still here reading!
I have been putting together a post about our routine and will hopefully have that up soon! It’s been super helpful since I’ve been able to get 8 hours of sleep at night with him. During the day, we definitely go a little by what Bug wants, but with a little routine incorporated. You’ll get there!! And you’re right it all depends on each baby since they’re all so different.
xo xo xo xo I can’t wait to hear all about your little guy and congrats!!!!!
Emily says
Congrats on the new addition to your family!!!!
I love the look of your walking shoes!!! What kind of shoes are those???