I was standing in front of my closet the other day and found myself staring at all of my beautiful clothes carefully draped on hangers. I was looking at the sweaters folded so perfectly, even my shoes aligned by season. Everything has its proper place.
Because it has gone untouched for two years.
Because I can’t wear them since my body doesn’t fit into them.
Because being pregnant for nine months for the second time and then giving birth has put my body in the worst place it has ever been. Ever.
[image: containerstore.com]
Trying to get back into those pre-preggers clothes is still a challenge for me, fifteen months later. And I have no excuse. I can no longer say, “My daughter is four weeks old which is why I am wearing these pants.”
There’s nothing I can say other than, this really sucks.
After I had my son, I was back in my pre-preggers clothes within five months. Did I work at it? Yes. Did it come off pretty easily? Yes. Can I say the same as the result of giving birth to my daughter? Ummm, no. This girl seriously screwed me up.
But this longing to wear the clothes in my closet is more than just a “baby weight” issue. It’s the fact that I work from home and there is no longer a need to get all dressed up…can I get an Amen from all of you stay-at-home moms, too?
When I was an elementary school teacher, I had to and wanted to look professional. I actually enjoyed putting my outfits together, pairing each one with perfect jewelry and accessories. My students always thought I was the “young, cool teacher” which was total incentive for me to sport the latest trends and keep up with my fabulous fashionista reputation.
Now, as I arrive at work after walking down the stairs to open my laptop, there is no real need to wear an adorable skirt with tights, boots and accessories because my daily outing is basically dropping my son off at pre-school (and if I’m lucky, a quick stop at the supermarket or Target with my daughter). That is just not a solid reason for me to put on my smashing dangle earrings and designer boots. Furthermore, not being able to fit into anything that resembles total cuteness makes this even harder to become a fashion plate like I once was…
Don’t get me wrong, I feel so blessed to be able to work from home while raising my kids. I wouldn’t trade that decision for anything and I know many women would love to be in my shoes. However, I am having some serious issues with my closet and what I find myself wearing these days. It’s typically the same black shirt and pants ensemble, yoga pants or anything super comfortable. I lack the sheer motivation to really get “dressed.”
So aside from some hard-core dieting to get back into those clothes hanging in my closet, I’m thinking a call into Stacey and Clinton may be in order. You think they’ll take on a mommy blogger?
Eat tofu, alright Teresha! lol Not sure if I am quite ready for them, but I am in need of finding a way to be cute and comfortable…maybe that could be a new trend!
It was harder the second time around for me too – With first one I somehow managed to find time for my exercise routines and got back into shape within a year. With second one, I thought I would have more time (because I am an experienced mom, the second time around – duh) – But I was wrong – I had less time and my body did not co-operate as much.. It took me almost 2.5 years after my second one was born to get back into shape.
.-= Sandy Naidu´s last blog ..Cathy Cousins of Sweet Little Things =-.
I know just what you mean!! My youngest just turned 18 (years, not months) and I’m not back in my pre-pregnancy clothes yet. I think I’ll just give it a bit more time. Actually, my bladder’s never been the same since I had her either but that’s for another day. 😉 Have a good one ~
.-= The imPerfect Housewife´s last blog ..Mindless entertainment =-.
My props to Clinton and Stacy. I could TOTALLY be on that show.
Ever since I left teaching and went into the family business my attire when from business casual to sloppy joes….sigh. I miss the days having matching socks for the season and dressy pants…THAT FIT!
I’m in the same boat, my friend.
Hi, Heather! Yes you sure are lucky to be a work at home mom! I would love to be able to be home more. As for loosing weight after a baby it sure can be a challenge but find a routine that works for you and stick with it. I’m sure that you will be in your old wardrobe sooner than later!
Hi Michie, yes that is the plan..and the more I write and think about this, IT IS TIME! No more excuses!!!!!!
.-= Theta Mom´s last blog ..A Stranger In My Closet =-.
Do you know that I’m still having a hard time parting with 20 yr old sweaters?! My closet is more of a time machine. I’m determined to clean it out. I still like to throw on the knee high boots and skirts….and have been known to wear that ensemble to the local bounce house.
.-= Mimi´s last blog ..Fail Us Not-1000 Generations =-.
Oh clothing, it drives me nuts. I wear jeans and sweats (cute sweats) every day, and just had a girls night out this weekend, and was at a LOSS as to what to wear. Sucks too when some of my favorite pants are waaay too tight!
.-= Molly´s last blog ..What a dork =-.
I LOVE that you wrote this. I have so many clothes in my closet that have not been worn in AGES mainly because I have no place to wear them. I live in yoga pants and hoodies which are just not cute anymore – not when they are my 7-day-a-week uniform. I feel the same – I would not want to give up my work at home situation, but at the same time, I am SO shabby. Just a note to say that I hear you!
You are not the only one Heather… I go through this same battle all the time.
I LOVE getting dressed to go out with accessories and cute shoes and always did when I worked too— but when you’re just going to preschool and the grocery store its like “eh- Ill just put on these sweat pants”… I try to break out of it– but especially in the winter… I too lack the motivation..
and DO NOT get me started on how my DD (16 mo) stretched out my hips beyond recognition. Its almost depressing.
.-= complicatedmama´s last blog ..My Keurig: Addicitive? or Magical? you decide. =-.
I’m right there with you! My son is 15 months old and I have not lost a single pound since his birth. And I just recently gave up my maternity jeans after one too many embarrassing moments when my shirt rode up and my spandex waist band took a peek out to the world.
On a day-today basis I am convinced that my new role as a SAHM has definitely hampered the weight loss because, you are right, getting all “dolled up” to run out and buy milk is just too much time wasted on the bag boy. It’s only when I have to go out with friends or to a function that the anxiety sets in and I have a meltdown trying to find something that looks half way decent on this new frame of mine.
I am hoping that some day I will snap into an obsessive fitness craze and Pilates my way back into my “hot” jeans!
Keep motivated!
.-= Shari Paul´s last blog ..Gifted Jam =-.
Shari, you cracked me up when you said, “getting dolled up would be wasted on the bag boy.” LOL!!! Exactly! But, as Complicated Mama said, we need to stay motivated. We are in this thing together sister!
AMEN! I also lack the motivation to get dressed everyday and my closet depresses me also. I am dying to get into my old jeans. These last 10 lbs are going to be hard to get off though, I’m afraid.
.-= Laura´s last blog ..Weekend Recap =-.
Amen!!! I completely understand you. I gained so much weight with my last child, I felt awful. I finally lost the weight, and have once again regained my motivation to dress nicely even while being at home.
Losing the weight helps! It takes time, and I’m sure you will lose it. If I can do it, anyone can. xox
Love passing by to catch up with you. God bless!!
.-= Jasmine´s last blog ..Lost in Translation – Rediscovering The Hebrew Roots of our Faith – Part 1 =-.
I know how you feel. Since being unemployed I wear my flannel pj pants and sweats.
I was very very fortunate w/ both my kids..I walked out of the hospital wearing the same clothes I wore in. I gained only 5lbs w/ my daughter and 8lbs w/ my son. Never a need to wear maternity clothes, I just didn’t button my pants. Sad I know. Yes, before you ask, I had perfectly healthy babies and I did not suffer from any eating disorder while I was pregnant, I just didn’t gain weight. HOWEVER, after my mom died, man I packed on the pounds. Now I don’t know if it was from me eating comfort food, or if it was just my metabolism slowed then, but I’ve struggled getting it off. Lost 20lbs, and then BAM…thyroid goes to crap and I’ve gained 10 of it back. Just started taking my thyroid pills so now I’m hoping to get it off again.
Good luck to you!
.-= Melissa´s last blog ..Mommy needs a break… =-.
I can completely relate. When I look at my closet I want to buy a new wardrobe, but as you said as a stay at home mom I don’t exactly dress fashionable on a daily basis. However, when I do go somewhere that requires me to dress up it is so depressing to not fit into the nice clothes I wore pre-baby – or even worse: post-baby – yes, that’s right, I was thinner after I had my son because he was a major eater (breastfeeder). It was the only time in my life I ate whatever & however much I wanted and actually had the best body of my life. But as soon as I stopped breastfeeding a year ago next week, I QUICKLY gained 15 lbs that I haven’t been able to lose. I’m really trying hard right now because I want to get pregnant with baby #2 this summer and want to at least start off with a decent body! I have faith in you that you’ll be able to wear your clothes again and if not there is no rule that says you can’t buy new clothes to dress up for yourself at home!
.-= Andrea´s last blog ..Andrea & Julie/Julia =-.
Andrea- I agree, try and lose that 15 pounds. I had 10 pounds to go before baby #2 and I’m paying for it even more now. Why do men have it so damn easy???
Honey? I’m 100% with you on this one. I did however put on makeup and do my hair today…does that count if I’m in my fave yoga pants?
.-= Chelle´s last blog ..Slow Down Girlfriend! =-.
It took me 5 1/2 years to finally get to the point that I’m giving up my post baby body. At least you are thinking about it at a much earlier stage!
.-= Beth´s last blog ..Yup, its frozen solid =-.
I have been feeling the same way! I don’t even have any great pre pregnancy clothes because I was working on losing weight then, in face I was losing very nicely lol. But now I’m looking forward to get to where I want to be to enjoy fashion again! Until then it’s Jeans/Yoga Pants/Tees. With lots of dresses thrown in the mix (I love dresses no matter what!)
.-= Stacey @ Say Something Stacey´s last blog ..Lets Lose Week 23 =-.
::sigh:: I’m in no position to stay-at-home unfortunately, but I feel like I dress like I do anyway. I also have a closet full of clothes that don’t fit and I am on a mission! I WILL fit into them and wear them with joy!
.-= Beth P´s last blog ..If I had my own classroom… =-.
I hear ya sister! I actually managed to fit into my pre-preggo clothes but that only lasted about a month. As soon as winter rolls around, I start to eat.
I am a semi-stay at home mom because I work part time but even on the days that I do work, I don’t bother to dress up.
If my boss says something about my attire, my response is “I don’t fit in my pre-pregnancy clothes and you don’t pay me enough to buy new ones!”
.-= sophia’s mom´s last blog ..Summit on the Summit: Celebrities Making a Difference =-.
All I can say is I completely understand and the last time I was pg was 32 years ago. Just keep trying you can do it!!
.-= gayle´s last blog ..ALL MY CARS =-.
I think Stacey and Clinton would jump at the chance to come take a look at your closet!
And I can relate to wanting to clean certain things out of the closet and I haven’t even had kids yet…I was just superduperskinny when I was in my 20’s and there is no way I would be able to fit my rear end in some of the old jeans I used to be able to wear. It’s kind of depressing.
.-= Salt´s last blog ..Hair-ror. =-.
Amen. Preach it sister. I was back in my clothes in no time with my first. My second…2 years out and I’m still nowhere near. Very depressing.
I totally hear ya… I’m in the same boat, although I can’t blame it on my baby weight. I lost all my baby weight and then gained it back, and then lost it again, and now I’ve gained it all back again. The major problem with this… I’m ready to get pregnant again and I’m already about 15 pounds heavier than I was the first time I got pregnant. Geesh!
.-= Paging Doctor Mommy´s last blog ..Christmas Traditions – Old & New =-.
My daughter is about the same age as your (16 months) and I am in the same boat as you. The “I just had a baby” excuse ain’t workin’ anymore. Not only do I not fit in my pre-baby clothes, they are completely inappropriate for my life now. Still, I don’t want to buy bigger sized clothes so I am just living in crappy clothes. It is kinda getting ridiculous.
.-= amie´s last blog ..The Monolith =-.
I’m right there with you except I’ve lost so much weight that I have nothing to wear even when I want to get dressed up. Everything I wear makes me look like I’m wearing a bag. I don’t know which is more distressing – clothes that are too small or too large. The only thing I can do to help my situation is to gain weight and that isn’t happening. If/when I return to working outside the home, I’ll have to take my first paycheck and go on a shopping spree!
.-= Tara´s last blog ..Music Monday =-.
Oh why can’t I have that problem Tara??? lol
.-= Theta Mom´s last blog ..Can You Say Shameless Self-Promotion? =-.
It has been almost 4 years since my youngest son was born. I gave up blaming it on the pregnancy. Now I blaming it on the birth control pills
I just have to give up all of my excuses and start eating right!
.-= Christine @ Propeller Head Mom´s last blog ..Random Tuesday Thoughts: Go Jets! =-.
You get an AMEN from this SAHM – I hear you loud and clear. I have no excuses either, although my daughter is 3, so I’m a little worse off than you are, although I’m sure we feel the exact same way. I too have that closet filled with some pretty great clothes that have been hanging there for YEARS. Just think about how fabulous we’ll look and feel however, when we finally get back to a happy spot with our bods. Besides, you are GORGEOUS no matter what – a smaller butt is just an added plus.
.-= Maria @BOREDmommy´s last blog ..YUMMY MUMMY CLUB – PHAT MUMMY =-.
Uh…my sons are older, so although I do stay home and homeschool one of them, I still get up and get dressed for the day for a couple of reasons. 1. I want hubby to have a ‘goodbye image’ of me dressed and not in sweats or my pajamas and 2. Mama always said, get up and get dressed because you don’t know what the day holds. EVERYTIME I slip up on following my two rules, I get caught with my pants down. LOL
I know what you mean about never knowing what the day holds, great point LaVender!
.-= Theta Mom´s last blog ..Can You Say Shameless Self-Promotion? =-.
AMEN! I really need some motivation to get fit and wear those cute outfits instead of sweatshirts. It is hard to when you just stay around the house wiping noses and changing diapers.
.-= Mommy Bear´s last blog ..Ask Us Anything =-.
I know what you mean….I am 6 mos postpartum with my 2nd and still have that dreaded 15 pds that won’t go away. They’re the only thing standing in the way of me and my favorite clothes. First time – no problem. This time – huge problem.
Tamara
http://www.theunexperiencedmom.com
.-= Tamara´s last blog ..Truthful Tuesday: My Blissdom Dilemma & What Talent Do I Wish I Had? =-.
I can’t say “My baby is 7. That’s why I look like this?” Dangit.
You’ll get there.
.-= kys´s last blog ..Next Time I’ll Go To Kokomo…..ALONE =-.
Iso relate! I look into the depths of my closet and think to myself I have nothing to wear! Oh there are lots of “work” clothes…from the old days, but nothing for the SAHM. I think instead of worrying about fitting into my old body and old clothes I shall go shopping and throw out some stuff from the last century!
.-= ModernMom´s last blog ..Nominate Me? =-.
I so feel your pain…except Ive had weight issues since before the birth of my second and even my first child!! I have a post planned this week for something similar and how I curb that frumpy feeling!
.-= shortmama´s last blog ..TV Really Gets On My Nerves And Other Random Complaints =-.
Ladies, so glad I am not alone!!!
Here is what we have in common.
After my 1st I got my body back pretty easily too.
After my 2nd it all went downhill.
I remember being the young, cool, well dressed Kindergarten teacher too (I even refused to participate in casual Fridays, now everyday is casual Friday). When did I get so old?
I sit at home in front of the computer all day in Yoga pants too, without the Yoga…
But I am all about changing that too! Down 7 pounds in 2 weeks! You can do it!!!
.-= Jean Myles´s last blog ..Slimdown Sundays! A slight deviation =-.
Great post, one of my favorites. My youngest is three and I am STILL trying to lose this “baby weight”. Can I still call it that?
http://throughtheeyesofabulimic.blogspot.com/
.-= Jennifer´s last blog ..Just another day in the life of a housewife….. =-.
I am exactly where you are right now. I lost the weight of my oldest daughter 93 and a half years old) fairly quick. My youngest is 16 months and I am not sure what is going on, but I have a closet full of clothes I cannot fit into. I am a major comfy clothes addict, mostly when I do not leave the house. Sometimes I feel bad that this is all my husband sees, my yoga pants and tank. Not what he married, thank god he loves me!
.-= Michelle ´s last blog ..Public Mommy Announcement: Watch Your Kids! =-.
OH my gosh I’m the so in the same situation after Cole it was Gym every morning and then I was close to normal and then PG with Caden. Now 2 years later I’m just needing some fire under me putting everything and everyone else forward has left me with very far from where I want to be! I hate looking at the closet ;(
.-= Alexis AKA MOM´s last blog ..Time Out for Theta Mom Thursday ~ Mommy got beautified! =-.
Well, I couldnt possibly read all your gazillion posts, so I dont know if people have already said what Im about to!….Losing the weight is much harder than gaining…I mean come on, who doesnt love a whole cheesecake here and there and who actually loves jogging 4 miles a day? Not I! So eating for 40 weeks gets you to where your at…losing it could take a good two years…dont be so hard on yourself!
Im sure Stacy and Clinton would def take a blogger! But you dont need them!! Buy a great pair of flat riding boots (macys, nordstrom, dillards) and just pair them with some good fitted jeans, with a plain tee and a cute long sweater or cardigan….definitely a way to look chic without looking over dressed for Target! Then you can dress the boots up with some cable knit stockings and a cute dress or skirt! Just my input….the boots make life easier to be not your normal self and cute!
I am SO there with you!
.-= Chelsea´s last blog ..It’s a love story. =-.
Theta Mom! You are so right, I can relate! I think we were honestly seperated at birth. Stacy & Clinton, love it and so true. Maybe we can get “What Not to Wear” to visit the mom bloggers of the world!
Love your site, always coming back for more.
Thanks so much Lori!
The 2nd time around is definitely harder! And I found that I really need to figure out what my mom “style” is, as opposed to my old work style. I’ve been doing a “Project Closet” on my blog about re-defining my style (aka wearing something other than jeans and a t-shirt).