How to Tell

When to share your news is definitely a personal decision.  Some women like to wait until they are out of the risky 1st trimester before announcing their pregnancy, while some don't hesitate to send out a text the second "pregnant" shows up on the test.

The first time I got pregnant, my hubby and I decided to wait until after our 10 week doctor appointment to tell friends and family.  Unfortunately, shortly before the appointment, I lost the baby.  That tragedy led me to think that I would wait all the way until I gave birth before telling anyone, but after over a year of trying to conceive again, my thoughts changed.  When I finally saw that positive test again, I couldn't wait more than 3 weeks before telling everyone!

Whenever you decide to tell, it's a good idea to have fun with it... a picture frame with the ultrasound and a "coming soon"  note, a corny tee-shirt, or a full-out party with balloons and banners.  How will you tell?  Share your ideas!

Journal

As my first bit of advice, I echo my dear friend Whit, "Keep a journal."

If you're trying to conceive, keep a journal.  You will want to look back on it to remind you why you wanted a child in the first place!

If you are pregnant, keep a journal.  You will wonder why you complained about the little sleep you got those last few months!

If you are a mommy, keep a journal.  Each day flies by, as I’m sure you’ve heard a million times, and you will want to cherish each one!

I kept my journal as a blog.  It was easy to log on every couple of days and jot down my thoughts.  Whether you write or type it, do it!  You will be glad.  For fun, I’ve included below a few quotes from my first pregnancy journal entry:

“I went to the bathroom and peed on a stick. It was no more than 30 seconds later that "Pregnant" showed up on the digital screen!”

“I don't even know how to explain this feeling...the feeling that there is a little alien growing inside me. It's amazing and totally weird at the same time.”