We’re Having a Baby!
We have something to share that’s very important to us, but wholly unrelated to updates about Walt Disney World or Disneyland vacation planning. Nevertheless, we wanted to post about it because it’s major life news for us, and this is largely a personal blog.
Many of you have been with us since the beginning and truly feel like friends. You saw us a struggling college students, joined as we became engaged at Walt Disney World way back in 2007, got married, and honeymooned at Walt Disney World in 2010. You’ve spent many early mornings and late nights in the parks with us, like the photo above from August 2009. You’ve been along for the wild ride as we moved cross-country…several times…with Yossarian the Cat and Walter E. Dogsney, who are both as spunky as ever at ages 14 and 15 and only took a brief break from play-fighting for the photo below–the best of many outtakes!
You’ve been there as we’ve grown together, and we consider you all part of the DTB family. Even if you’re a more recent reader, it’s fair to say that we have all been through a lot together in the last few years. Well, now you’re about to embark upon another journey as we begin the next chapter and grow even further, this time in the literal sense…
We are incredibly excited to share with you all that we are expecting a baby! This has been a big secret to keep over the last several months, and you’re among the first people we’ve told. We are over the moon and our hearts are filled with happiness as we’ve begun this new journey. It’s been quite the emotional whirlwind for far longer, for reasons we’ll get into below.
It’s also been overwhelming, as we devour every parenting book and try to learn everything we need to know. We go from moments of pure elation–like feeling those first kicks–to true terror as we think about how on earth we’re going to babyproof this or that. Of course, we know these feelings are hardly unique or unprecedented. It seems like everyone goes through this, and the prevailing wisdom is that “it’ll be fine–you’ll figure it out.”
But if you’re learned anything from this blog, it’s that we’re planners. We like to test different strategies and iterate until achieving perceived perfection. That works better when it comes to rope dropping Magic Kingdom than it does for raising a human, it would seem. If an Early Entry approach doesn’t work, it can be retested the next day. The stakes are slightly higher here, so “you’ll figure it out as you go” are not exactly reassuring words.
Worried as we are sometimes, we’re also anxiously awaiting the opportunity to figure it out. To meet our baby. Learn about who they are. See their unique idiosyncrasies that makes each person special. Watch them grow up from newborn to infant and beyond, becoming their own person, with their own personality and preferences. Already, we’ve started to see and feel some of that, with our doctor and sonogram technician already using the words “feisty” and “active.” That sounds about right!
While we’re looking forward to learning about our baby, we’re also excited to shape and raise them. “What we will do when we are parents” in certain scenarios is an ongoing conversation that we’ve been having for years–over a decade. We’re already on the same page in terms of parenting philosophy after having spent years talking through these topics. Obviously, some of that will change and molded by circumstances and experiences, though.
But there are some things that are set in stone. It’s not a question of whether they’ll love Country Bear Jamboree, but rather, which bear will be their favorite. Conversely, our child won’t be an NFL wide receiver; not due to any qualms with the sport, but because…you’ve seen the two of us, right?!
There’s so much more that we can’t wait to learn about our baby as we welcome them to the world. We cannot wait for their first visit to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and beyond, and have adventures as a family of three (plus Yossarian and Walter). There’s so much we can’t wait to experience and discover with our baby.
We’re also really and truly excited to have you along with us for the ride. Watch (or laugh at) us as we endure the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Shuffle, but for the first time, having to navigate that crowd and chaos with a stroller. Join as do more character dining experiences, which we’ve been “banking” since learning this news. Watch as we meet Mickey Mouse for the first time anew, seeing him through the eyes of our child.
One very specific thing we’ve been waiting literally years to do with our baby is meet Figment. Before even getting married, we bought the Figment costume above for our future child to wear while meeting FigZilla. That costume has moved around the country with us a lot, and we almost got rid of it last fall when getting our stuff out of storage. What point was there in keeping it–given the unlikelihood of us having a kid and Figment having a meet & greet. Now that very specific, decade-plus old dream will soon come true.
Speaking of oddly-specific dreams, we will finally get to test strollers, Dwight Schrute style. (This is not really “our” dream, as only one of us has been excited about this for years…but we present a united front!) There’s so much we’re looking forward to seeing, doing, sharing. And frankly, we’re looking forward to picking your brains and soliciting feedback. There’s no substitute for lived experience, and many of you have been there and done that–both in raising kids and taking them on trips to the parks and other travels.
Obviously, some things are going to change on the blog with a baby on board. We’ve never had posts field-testing stroller speed, strength, and agility. All of our past character meal reviews were just the two of us as we attempted to awkwardly interact with face characters; that shouldn’t be as much of a problem now.
For those couples and solo travelers who liked this site because it wasn’t a family blog, there will undoubtedly be some posts to ignore. But a lot will also remain unchanged. For the duration of its existence, this blog’s writing sensibilities have skewed towards “dad jokes” and dated pop culture references. Hard to imagine that getting any better/worse than it already is.
Fundamentally, nothing is going to change. This isn’t like your favorite television show jumping the shark by switching showrunners or bringing in a new character to keep things fresh. This is not going to be Poochie, the “baby with an attitude.” Minor content additions aside, this site’s “voice” has not meaningfully changed over the course of the last decade–for better or worse–because it’s our voice. Rather, this is an addition to our family, and the DTB family by extension, and we want to share our happiness with you.
It has not always been this happy and joyous. In fact, if there are four words we did not expect to write on this blog at the start of 2023, they are “we’re having a baby!” This has been a painful process, and one that began several years ago. Many of you longtime readers might recall regular references to “when we have kids” in older posts; those quietly vanished a while ago.
We have been trying to conceive for the better half of the last decade, which is obviously not a normal timeline when things are going swell. Our journey reached its nadir during COVID, around which point we started seeing specialists and consulting professionals. The ordeal became an emotional albatross that weighed us down at a time when things already weren’t going exactly swimmingly in the world.
Our diagnoses were largely inconclusive, with various tests indicating different exacerbating factors, but it was essentially ‘unexplained infertility.’ That led us to pursue a variety options at a number of fertility centers. The whole process was less like medical treatment and more emotionally manipulative salesmanship, tugging on our heartstrings in an attempt to prey on us at our most vulnerable.
Worse yet, nothing worked. It’s impossible to overstate just how isolating and emotionally draining this was. Infertility was always front of mind or lurking nearby, with depressing and intrusive thoughts drowning out happiness at a moment’s notice. We withdrew as a defense mechanism, and struggled to put ourselves out there as much.
Sharing our own struggles with infertility was also a challenge. In general, few people know how to react to this sort of thing; some offer unsolicited advice, awkward silence, or unintentionally hurtful comments. Outside of our immensely supportive family and circle of close friends, this is the first we’ve opened up been about our struggles–and it’s only happening from the ‘safety’ of coming out the other end. It’s hard to fault anyone for not knowing how to approach this uncomfortable topic, as this is something people don’t really talk about.
Even having been on the receiving end of that, it’s still difficult for us to talk to people going through the same thing. It’s impossible to know what others needs to hear, what will help and what will hurt. (To that point, we will never forget the pain that led us here and sincerely hope the tone and tenor of this announcement is not hurtful for those who have or are still struggling with infertility, as our goal is comfort and not callousness.)
It took years, but we slowly started to come to terms with not being parents. We were finally ready to move on from what was, for us, truly the Dino-Rama of life experiences. It thus came as the ultimate surprise–in the best way possible–when the test came back positive and we learned that we would actually get to be parents.
We don’t want to weigh down happy news with heartbreak and grief, but such is life. Perhaps these words will bring some solace to those going through the same, or a bit of better understanding for those who have not faced reproductive challenges and heartbreak.
Part of the reason for sharing our struggles is offering solace, but admittedly, part is offering a bit of a glimpse behind the scenes and context for the future. We’re excited and we want to share this process…but we also have trauma from the past few years.
Part of this is probably normal for any new parents, but we find ourselves worried and fearful quite often. That something is going to go wrong and we’re going to have our miracle baby stolen from us. (We’ve postponed sharing this announcement several times, opting instead to get past the “next” milestone doctor’s appointment.)
This has been deeply personal and, honestly, we don’t know how much we’re going to feel comfortable putting ourselves and our child out there going forward. Even this blog post has been a challenge, taking far longer than you’d probably expect with several scrapped drafts along the way.
We’ve tried to thread the needle on over and under-sharing, while also trying to be mindful about sensities and scars others may have, and not inviting more painful questions in the process. We’d appreciate it if you’d please be patient with us, as we find our footing and prepare to be parents.
Although we’re not quite ready to share everything, there are a couple of things we can say to get out ahead of a couple questions. First, we do know the sex of the child and will be sharing that soon. (It took a surprising amount of effort and editing to not reveal it by accident here!)
Conversely, the baby’s “official” name won’t be shared until birth. We have a couple of frontrunners, but haven’t settled on a final pick…and aren’t looking for public feedback. What we can share is the baby’s nickname: Megatron. It started as an inside joke between us, but it’s such a strong and great name that many people are saying it should become the official name!
We can also share that Megatron is approximately the size of a Green Alien from Toy Story. Seriously. Well, not actually…those Green Aliens are fictional and their size is not canon, but that’s the claim of the “What to Expect” app, which has given us some highly-dubious size comparisons about Megatron on a weekly basis. Because we know “how big is the baby as compared to a fictional character?” was front of mind for all of you. (This wouldn’t be a DTB announcement without one pointless and rambling anecdote with zero payoff!)
Here’s one more thing we are happy to share–more maternity photos from the beach and Disney:
(Huge thanks to our friend Guy Selga, who graciously waited in line with us for characters and took these and many other photos of us all around Disneyland! Photos from the beach were taken by us.)
Ultimately, we can’t wait for what’s to come and for you all to join us on this journey! This is obviously huge and life-changing news for us, and an announcement that we’ve been waiting to share with you all for years. (Literally. We talked about taking maternity photos on the Future World fiber optic pavement and doing a “Tomorrow’s Child” announcement back when the Giant Epcot Dirt Pit™️ was a mere twinkle in Bob Chapek’s eye!)
We took for granted that we’d be parents back then, and have gone through so much since. The road here has been paved with heartbreak and heartache, but we find ourselves immensely grateful and excited to start this new chapter of our lives. Our thoughts go out to those who continue with a similar struggle; we know just how difficult and isolating it can be.
We’ll be back with more updates (and questions!) as pregnancy continues and our baby comes into the world. For now, we offer a sincere thank you for taking the time to read our story and, as always, we greatly appreciate your support and readership–that is not something we ever take for granted!
Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews. To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!
Your Thoughts
Any thoughts you have in response to our pregnancy announcement? Think Megatron would make a strong name that absolutely would not get a child picked on in school? (Again, we don’t know how much we’re going to feel comfortable putting ourselves and our child out there, so we’d greatly appreciate you granting us grace and patience as we find our footing and prepare to be parents!) Hearing your feedback is always appreciated, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!
Congratulations Friends!!!!!! What wonderful news. I’m so happy for the both of you. Ive struggled with infertility for 10 years and been giving the dreaded diagnosis of “infertility of unknown origin”. Anyway, after losing parents and other loved ones, I’m thankful for what I do have and do not wish to focus on what I don’t have. So glad to hear your wondrous news!
This brought tears to my eyes, I am so happy for you! Congratulations! Can’t wait to hear more about Megatron!
Late to the party, but what great news!!!! So happy for you two, and sorry to hear you have had such a hard time starting a family.
For what it’s worth I’ll give you a piece of advice my mom gave me when we had our first. Be kind to each other. Honestly most other parenting advice had been pretty hit or miss, but when we’ve had our hardest days I always think of that.
Congratulations Tom and Sarah! So happy for you both and looking forward to reading whatever you choose to share about Megatron!
Congratulations, I’m very happy for both of you. We went down the same road and had a happy ending. My son is 30 and my daughter is 28. I wouldn’t change a thing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
I’m so happy for you both and wish you all the best!!
Congratulations on your long-awaited pregnancy, and best of luck with everything as you look forward to bringing home your baby. You are far from alone in having this journey be unexpectedly difficult and heartbreaking. I am happy that you are on a more joyful path now.
I did have to giggle a bit at the idea that the blog won’t change. It will. Your priorities and interests will shift as you incorporate a small and helpless person into your lives, and as they grow into everyone’s favorite, an overtired small Disney guest. But that’s ok. Change is good.
Congrats!!! That is such amazing news!! You are going to be the best parents, if the care and love you put into your blog is any indication. I can only imagine how much more care and love will go into raising your child.
Congratulations!! I’ve been following DTB since 2011 or so, and noticed the falling off of comments about future children over the years. My husband and I are childfree by choice, but I have close friends who faced fertility challenges so I understand something of what you went through. I’ve wondered for a few years now whether y’all were dealing with those challenges, or if you’d simply changed your minds about parenthood. It breaks my heart to know how much you were hurting “behind the screen” for many years, but I’m absolutely overjoyed to hear this wonderful news!! This is my favorite blog on the internet for lots of reasons, but the biggest ones are your honest opinions (which happen to coincide with my own 9/10 times) and how much of yourselves you put out there. Thank you for sharing this journey with us. I wish only wonderful things for Tom, Sarah, and Megatron in the years to come!
Congratulations!!! My husband and I have our own infertility journey. But, 13 yrs ago we adopted a beautiful baby girl. And now, she just finished 7th grade. The time flies so enjoy every second of it. Children r such a blessing. Sooo excited and happy for u both!!
FYI-Never posted, replied or commented about anything on line before. It will probably show. So I’m checking my mail on the phone and I see DTB Breaking News. Bonus! Just as I’m read the good news, my bride of 31 years walks in and says “What’s up with the big goofy grin.” I said my tourist blog friends are having a baby! I didn’t even realize I was smiling. Sorry Disney but that’s real Magic! Your story was so compassionately and empathetically written that I image each word caused a possible catch 22 (no offense Yossarian).“Now I’m not a smart man but I know what love is”-Forest Gump. You both have found your happily ever after and Megatron is the Cherry on top. BTW, Megatron is a great middle name. “Your mileage may very on this”- Tom Bricker. Get ready for “A whole new world, don’t you dare close your eyes”- Jasmine/Aladdin – because the time is going to start flying. So Sarah, you need to stop zigging and zagging so much. Take it easy. Get a manny petty. Have Tom brush your hair. That will take a while. Just in General, pamper yourself. That’s all I got and the rest is some advice for Tom so you can just skip to the end. Nothing to see here. Tom, whatever you do, do not paint her toenails! Its way harder than it looks. If you mess em up, you’ll hear about it for the next 31 years. So I’ve heard. Just take her to the toe pros and then stop off for ice cream. Bam, that’s a date night. Win win. Also, making people can be very stressful and emotional. You and Sarah may encounter.. let’s say a spirited debate or two. Just cut to the chase and remember Sarah is always right. “Don’t sweat the small stuff..It’s all small stuff” –Richard Carlson. Lastly, If there is ever anything you need to know about just drop me a line and I’ll just ask my happily ever after because she is always right too (Hey 31 years baby). God bless the DTB and God Bless baby Megatron. Always love, your invisible internet friend- Dennis
*insert happy tears*
I am oh-so excited to you guys! I have been reading your blog for yearsssss and had often wondered where you guys were on your journey to be parents.
Children are an amazing blessing. I’m so thankful for my 3 and so overjoyed to see you enjoy your own!
Enjoy every minute and embrace the chaos. Lol.
Sarah, you look so cute!
Congrats!!
Oh and by the way…Megatron is an awesome name 🙂
Congrats to you guys! Such wonderful news! Enjoy every minute of it…as a father of a high school graduate this year, it all goes way too fast. With all you’ve been through, I’m sure you will relish every bit of parenthood
CONGRATULATIONS!
I’m very late to this news, but I will give you the advice I give to all first-time parents to be: You’re clueless.
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get all the info you can, read all the great books you can, but until you go through the experience, you are totally and completely clueless. Which is fine, because every other parent in history has also been clueless the first time out, including me, my wife, both of your parents, their parents and grandparents, and everyone you know who’s ever had a kid, and if they managed it, so can you!
Good luck and God bless!
Congratulations!!! As someone who also struggled with infertility for years, I totally understand all of the emotions you both are going through. We now have 3 miracle babies (b/g twins – 10 and our son -7). Seriously could not be more thrilled for you both. Disney is fun with adults, but it’s so special with kids. Very excited for you and can’t wait for more updates! Praying for a easy delivery and a happy healthy baby/mom 🙂
I’m crying! I’ve always followed and thought to myself how exciting it would be to get to see you guys become parents! You both are going to do such a great job, what a little lucky booger you guys are bringing into this world! I can’t wait to see the evolution, now you can freely give the advice you used to say you couldn’t/shouldn’t lol Congratulations! We are so happy with you and for you!
Aw!! Megatron is very lucky indeed to come into this world to a set of parents who have been thinking about and curating a wonderful life of love for them for awhile. What an amazing story about the figment costume. I’m so glad you all kept it! Your maternity photos are lovely and sweet. So happy for you all- Sending good vibes and happy thoughts to you and yours
I have been following/reading your blogs since 2018! You do feel like family! So very Happy for You, both! Your Instagram picture captured all of your Joy! All my best to you!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!
I could not be happier for the two of you. We also struggled and I know how isolating and emotionally draining it can be! We were one of the first of our friends who got married and we knew we both wanted kids and talked about it before we got married. The years went by and more and more of our friends had a baby. Going to the baby showers was painful. We were happy for our friends but so hard to put a smile on my face and not think how much we wanted it to be us!
Anyway we decided to adopt and we could not be happier. And yes one of my favorite memories was our first trip to Disney World when our kids were 4 – they believed it ALL!!! Of course my husband could not understand why we paid all this money to stand in line to get a character autograph but it was amazing. We have been so many times since then and each stage was different, this last time being when our kids were now old enough to drink and all of us enjoyed some adult beverages.
You will be fine! I am a planner and yeah you can’t control it all but you can plan/organize. I still have a family calendar to make sure all of us know what is going on. Making lists to remember things, etc.
Based on your blog you are a couple who loves to enjoy life and you can share that joy with your child. I will say we travelled with our children. The first long trip being to visit family in Europe when kids were under 2 (free flyers)….it was fun but exhausting.