Sarah Harlow (36) and Tallulah (5 Months)
Milwaukee, WI
How has parenthood impacted your body image?
I used to be worried about my weight and struggled with having a positive self image. Parenthood has made me realize that I need to be kinder to myself; if not for my benefit, for my daughter's benefit. I am trying to have a healthier outlook and appreciate my body for what it can do (grow the coolest baby in the world), not the size dress it fits into.
What is your truth?
Trust yourself. Everything you're doing is what's right for you and your baby. No on else can tell you otherwise.
Why did you choose to participate in this movement and share your story?
Becoming a mom has made me feel so powerful, yet vulnerable at the same time. I gave up my body up to the unknown of pregnancy, and shared everything with my sweet baby before we knew who she was. Five months postpartum, I still don't recognize my old self in this new body. The new freckles that pop up, the changes to my hair, my new curves, new stretch marks, and the countless other differences that I continue to discover. But, my body is amazing. It did so much to make the best environment for our sweet girl to grow strong and healthy. I'm learning to appreciate my new body, not expecting it to bounce back to my pre-Mama shape. Being part of this project is helping me to discover how beautiful my body has become.