I’ve been keeping a big secret from you… and it has been SO hard to stay quiet.
You may have noticed that you’ve seen a bit less of me here and on social media in the past few months. I had shared that I was taking a bit of a hiatus but didn’t tell you why.
There’s actually not just one reason… there’s two.
Kevin and I are expecting. AND IT’S TWINS!
I have dreamed of having twins my entire life… and even had twin dolls named Heather and Feather (yup, Feather) when I was a little girl. We are beyond excited to welcome these bundles of joy into the world. They’re due February 29th (Leap Day!) but our doctor suggests that we should plan for their early arrival. The average twin pregnancy only lasts 35-36 weeks vs. the normal 40 weeks.
I’ve felt pretty well and things have been smooth so far although it is considered a high-risk pregnancy. My only major symptom has been exhaustion, and the exhaustion is the reason I haven’t been working as much on the blog or interacting as much on social media.
What’s Next?
I’m well into my second trimester now at 20 weeks and thankfully I’m feeling really well! Due to having twins, I’m automatically considered high risk so we’re getting a LOT of extra medical attention. As someone who is a natural worrier, I actually LIKE that I’m considered high risk so that I can have access to more ultrasounds and care.
We have found out the genders of the babies but have not yet been able to tell our closest friends and family so I’m going to hold off on sharing that info publicly until we do.
I’ve been doing LOTS of research on baby gadgets and all the things we’ll need and basically just how we keep them alive once they’re here. It’s all fun and exciting… but a little overwhelming knowing that we’ll be going from zero babies (except our poodle, Jackson) to TWO REAL LIFE HUMAN BABIES IN THIS HOUSE! AHHH!
I will be sharing a few posts in the coming weeks about our fertility journey, what it’s like being plus size and pregnant, etc. I’ll also share a post on WHAT IN THE WORLD TO DO FOR MATERNITY CLOTHES IF YOU’RE OVER A 3X. All caps because the options are so ridiculously limited… but I’m finding ways to make it work.
I promise the blog won’t turn into non-stop pregnancy and mommy content, and I don’t know how much I’ll share here about mom-life on an ongoing basis. That will all depend on what you guys actually want to hear! I always share my real life with you, so I’m sure I’ll talk about it some… but we’ll also keep up the usual topics like plus size fashion, home decor, etc. too.
Please feel free to drop a comment or send an email letting me know if you have any special content requests regarding pregnancy and fertility.
A Note On Infertility
Some of you know, I have mentioned briefly on social media in the past that we were struggling on our fertility journey. I initially had a desire to share my story because infertility can be such a lonely thing; however, I quickly realized I wasn’t emotionally equipped or prepared with enough information to be a resource to others. So, I stopped talking about it publicly.
I still don’t feel equipped to provide infertility advice because everyone’s struggle is so different. I do plan to share our story in hopes to help anyone else going through the infertility journey, especially those of you who are also plus size, feel a little bit less alone. Stay tuned for that.
I will say this… I’ve gone through a lot in my lifetime (as we all have) and infertility is by far the most difficult thing I’ve ever experienced. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone, and if you’re currently struggling… I am so sorry. I consistently pray for the women and families awaiting a miracle, and every time I experience a joyful moment in this pregnancy I remember the many, many months we struggled… and I remember you.
I know that sometimes seeing these announcements or happy moments can be difficult when you’re in the midst of a struggle but my hope is that our story can be one of hope for you and not a source of pain.
Plus Size Pregnancy & Fertility Resources
If you’re looking for plus size fertility and/or pregnancy advice and stories from other women, I highly recommend you check out Plus Size Birth. Jennifer McLellan has created an incredible blog and shares resources to guide you through the journey of trying to conceive and pregnancy. She also has a podcast that you might find helpful!
Also, If you’re in the Cincinnati area, I’d be happy to share my fertility specialist’s info. Finding the right medical team was extremely difficult, and once I found my doctor everything changed.
So excited to have you FINALLY in on the secret, and I look forward to any and all advice you may have for me!
Mary T. says
So excited for you! Congratulations and sending you all love and prayers for a healthy and happy continuing journey. I’d be happy to hear more about your experiences and Mom life!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thanks, Mary! I appreciate the love & prayers more than you know! Looking forward to sharing more soon! <3
Natacha says
I knew it about a month ago when you mentioned how tired you were and the way your face looks. Just the subtle “glow” people talk about expectant mothers get. I will pray for you and your babies. How precious.
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thank you!!! I had a feeling that all my talk about being tired would give it away! I’ve been EXHAUSTED but so worth it 🙂
Emily says
Congratulations!! I am a plus size mama through adoption (fertility treatments failed for us), and wish you all the best in this new journey! I would love to hear more about your life as a new mama.
Christy Kirkpatrick says
Plus size maternity….try FullBeauty in larger sizes, I believe they carry up to 4-6x. Also, Woman Within. I am also a Momma to twins!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thank you! I actually placed a big order on Woman Within a few weeks ago in a size up! Great tip! It’s been working for me too! <3 Now, I'm gonna need alllll your twin mom advice. Haha.
Shanna says
Congratulations! I am so happy for you. My biggest advice is to listen to your heart. You will get so much advice from so many sources (whether you want it or not!). Ultimately you have to shove that aside and do what is best for you and your family.
Libby says
How absolutely wonderful! Congratulations on your growing family!!
I’m eager to see your tip on plus size maternity clothes.
When I had my first little girl, I had one blue dress that I wore almost every day, because it was the only thing that looked decent! It drove me crazy!
Christine says
Soooooo many congratulations! How very exciting!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thank you!
Sheri says
I was plus size and pregnant with triplets…my regular OBGYN wanted me to have a fetal reduction which is a fancy word for abortion because he said my babies would be sick and not have a full life…i refused even after them trying to bully me into doing it…i switched to a high risk OBGYN and he was wonderful and when I told him what the other OBGYN said and he said that’s ridiculous…he said he’s delivered so many healthy triplets…i carried mine until 32 weeks…they spent a month in the NICU to strengthen their little bodies…it was the longest month ever…my triplets are 15 now and never had any health problems like the other Dr said they would…you got this…just take it easy so you don’t have to go on bed rest…God Bless
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
I am so, so happy you didn’t listen to that doctor! This is such good news to hear. I can only imagine how difficult it was having them in the NICU but such a blessing they’re healthy and thriving as teens!
Susan says
Congratulations!! I’m so happy for you and I’m very excited to follow along your journey. I’m not quite ready to have a baby yet (I’m getting married next October) but it’s definitely on my mind a lot. I am however an auntie to 5 yr old twin nieces and it’s been the best blessing of my life! You will love having twins!!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Congrats on the upcoming wedding!!! So exciting! I imagine twin nieces are a lot of fun! Our nephew is so much fun that I can’t even imagine double!
AnneMarie H. says
Congratulations! Twins wow…take care of yourself and dont’ worry about the blog, instagram or Facebook you need to take care of you and the babies! I knew something was up…
Kayla Winter says
OMG so so excited for you two!! Enjoy the journey!!
Emily says
Congratulations! I’m a plus size mama through adoption (fertility treatments failed for us) and wish you all the best, and would love to hear more about your life as a new mama!
amy says
Congratulations! The fertility journey is such an emotional rollercoaster. Praying for you and your little loves!
Stephanie Warfield says
MIRANDA!!!!!!! Yes! Congratulations!!!!!! I’m so excited for you and Kevin. Praying for you and the rest of your pregnancy. Oh my gosh!!! Yessss!
Michelle says
I’m so excited for you both!! Congratulations, twins going to be so much fun I’m sure but hard work at the same time! You guys are going to be amazing parents! Enjoy this new journey your on!
Laci says
This is so inspiring. Last time at an appointment, my doctor made it sound like at my weight, I would not be able to receive help until I lost a certain amount of weight 🙁 Do you have any tips on finding the right doctor?
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Finding the right doctor was the hardest part for me. I found that OBs were the worst/most fat phobic in general of all specialities. I kept trying different OBs and eventually found a great primary care doctor who I trusted to refer me to good specialists.
My biggest advice is don’t wait around on a bad doctor to come around. I did and wasted time. I also relied on OBGYNs for far too long when I wish I had seen a RE/fertility specialist way sooner!
Plus Mommy has a size friendly care provider resource on her website!
Tanisha says
Congratulations!!! I’m soo happy and excited for you!!!
Im looking forward to your blogs regarding being plus sized and pregnant.. I’m a plus sized woman who would like to start a family but was recently advised by a fertility specialist to lose 85lbs before trying to convince.. I’m currently 290lbs. I’m curious to know if you were advised anything similar?
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
I had been told to lose that much or more by other doctors but eventually found a doctor who would care for me at my current weight. His only requirement was that I lose 15 lbs which I felt was a fair compromise.
Tanisha says
Oh okay that’s awesome!!!! I am so happy for you and look forward to your blogs ❤️
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thank you so much!
katie says
YAY!! Congratulations & so excited for you :))))
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thank you!!
Mianna says
So happy for you! I had a feeling this announcement was around the corner!! Fantastic. I too was a plus size infertility mama. Albeit our son was born 19 years ago! I took Clomid to get me ovulating, worked on the 3rd month. I too was labeled ‘high risk’ due to a shortening cervix and was on strict bed rest at my 5th month. But I understand what you mean about that extra attention when labeled high risk. We were at the hospital 2-3 times a week being monitored. Despite all sorts of worry and scares throughout my pregnancy we had a healthy baby boy at 35 weeks. So excited to follow your journey.
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
I love hearing stories of other mamas! Bed rest so early must have been tough! I’m trying to take it somewhat easy in hopes that I can avoid it but I’ll do whatever I need to do to keep babies healthy! I haven’t made it to multiple allotments each week yet but am told to be expecting that as the pregnancy progresses.
Heather Watson says
Congratulations, so excited for you! Don’t know if your going to try to breast feed (I struggled with it from PCOS) but amazon has some plus size nursing shirts the I really like. They are very comfy. Baikea is the name brand. Thought you may want to check those out. Best of luck and remember to take time to enjoy being pregnant!
Melissa Henschel says
Congratulations!!! I’m a momma of twins also. And they were my first pregnancy as well after two rounds of Clomid as I have PCOS. They’ll break you in for sure. Bouncy seats, sleep sacks(makes for easy middle of the night changing) and make sure you wake them up together for overnight changes and feedings or you’ll be up all night long! Mine came at 36 weeks and were 5lbs 2oz and 4 lbs 12oz and no NICU!! Looking forward to following your journey!!
Katrina Hutchins says
Congratulations! Twins sound so fun and have a best friend built in.
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Yess!! I agree!
Becky says
Congratulations! Miranda you are glowing! So happy for you two! Enjoy every second!
Maleah says
Congratulations! My best advice is to listen to your own intuition and do what feels right for your family, even if it doesn’t go by the book. The days are long but the years are short. Love on them as much as you can while they’re little.
Patti Brock says
I am so thrilled for you! Being a mother is the best!!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thanks Patti!
Jessica (Hall) Holton says
Congratulations Miranda, I am so happy for you your family! I know your Momma is over the moon.
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thank you! Yes, she’s beyond thrilled!
Karen S Willis says
Congratulations!!!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thank you!
Mary H says
Congrats! Plus size maternity clothes are hard to come by. I couldn’t find any and had to buy bigger sizes.
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
It’s such a struggle! I’ve found some options but it’s so limited!
Polly says
OMG congratulations!! I’m a plus size mom of twins as well who turn 5 next month. I made it until 37 weeks and had healthy babies with no NICU time. I hope for the best for you!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Aw thanks so much! Happy you’re here!
Chris says
Congratulations! Woman Within was a great store when I was pregnant. The tops with all the pleats in the front are very forgiving and full for the growing babies. They also had maternity pants that were amazing!! I also wore lots of their t-shirts with an open cardigan.
Due to my weight, my pregnancy was also a high risk. Lots of appointments but lots of ultrasounds so I could see his sweet little face!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Ohhh I just ordered some stuff there but didn’t even look for maternity on the site. I just ordered a size up. Will look again! Thanks!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thank you!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thanks so Much!
Stephanie says
I’m so excited for you! Congratulations to you and your hubby!
Lindsay Morris (lovelinz on insta) says
Omg!!! I had a feeling and I had hoped you were pregnant but I was not expecting twins!! Omg!! I am so so happy for you!! I nanny 2.5 year old twins and have been their nanny since they were almost a year and a half and they are so fun! I am so excited for you, twins are exciting!!!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thank you so much!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Thank you so much!
Miranda Schultz (The Plus Life) says
Wow, thank you for such a thoughtful comment! I can’t believe you were pregnant for portions of the year FOUR YEARS in a row! That’s one reason I’m excited for twins… two babies and only one pregnancy. LOL. Honestly, I’m still pretty shocked by the lack of maternity options… especially over a 3X. I am still wearing my normal clothes for now but the options are really disappointing overall. Thankfully there ARE a few options & I will likely do the same thing you did and size up in things I know will fit vs. going maternity.