Emily Bauer (39), Paige (13 months)

Minneapolis, MN

Emily shares -

“Being almost 40 and becoming a parent was hard. My husband and I had 7 years together prior to having our daughter. We traveled all the time, slept in, and did what we wanted, when we wanted. Having a baby completely throws that off. There were days I looked at her and loved her so much and other days I resented her for taking away all the things in life that I enjoyed. That sounds terrible, but it was the truth. I think we have finally adjusted and hit our stride. She’s a blast to be with and her dad and I love being with her.

I’m 35 lbs heavier than when I got pregnant. I spent the 2 years prior getting fit and into shape and lost 50 lbs. In all honesty, it’s a struggle some days to look at my body. I have a large pouch where I had excess fluid from a condition called Polyhydramnios. It’s been an uphill battle to accept the body I have now. However, when I feel down about it, I look at my child, who I waited 38 years to have. She is my world.

I want to have a picture that captures the beauty of my body and what it has done. I want to look at it and celebrate instead of stand in the mirror and tug at all the parts I don’t like about my body.”