Today’s post is a little different… because I have some very exciting news to share!
Our Nourished Mama community is growing by one sweet little member, a baby boy, that we are overjoyed to be welcoming earthside this August.
We are beyond grateful to be adding another member to our family and to watch Elio become a big brother. Watching him now, knowing that in just a few months his whole world is going to change, brings up so many emotions.
Anyone who has followed my story knows that we went through IVF to have Elio, and that was the same case with this baby. I never thought IVF would be a part of my story, but I am also so deeply grateful for the doctors, the science, and the technology that have made being parents possible for us.
The first time we went through IVF, I was anxious and impatient. This time, I told myself I would be calmer and better at going with the flow. And even though I knew what to expect, I still found it challenging, somewhat invasive, and impersonal (despite the fact that I truly love our doctors). We sadly had to go through the process twice this time (more on that in another post), and I won’t lie, it was difficult for me. And yet here we are, with a beautiful little boy on the way. All worth it in the end.
If you’ve walked through infertility, loss, IVF, or any version of a difficult path to motherhood, I see you, and I am with you. It can be a really isolating and exhausting experience.
After getting through the transfer process and those first few early weeks, this pregnancy has thankfully felt easy. I’m in my second trimester now (my favorite, by far), and overall I’m feeling good.
That said, there really is nothing like pregnancy exhaustion, especially with a toddler who doesn’t sleep through the night. Woof. I rarely make it through a day without a nap.
Food-wise, I’ve had it pretty easy. I can eat most things, and the only true aversion has been coffee (which my dad is thrilled about). My sense of smell is strong, and I may gag at anything remotely unpleasant, but I’m so fortunate not to deal with much nausea.
When I was pregnant with Elio, I hiked and exercised almost daily, and that’s just not happening right now. I’m still moving most days, but it’s not at the same level as it used to be, which I’m OK with right now.
I’m so grateful to share this next chapter with you. Thank you for being part of this community!
I’m so excited to share this pregnancy and beyond, and I’d love to be as open with you all as possible. What would be helpful to hear about? Pregnancy updates, IVF, nutrition while pregnant, postpartum planning, etc. Share in the comments what would feel most supportive or interesting to you!
I share Nourished Mama Collective every Tuesday. If you’d like these reflections and nutrition insights delivered to your inbox, you can subscribe below.
Congrats on the new addition! Going through IVF twice takes so much strength, and it's awesome that you're open about that journey. Elio becoming a big brother is going to be the sweetest thing to watch unfold.
Awesome, Diana!!! ❤️