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| 28 weeks: my view of Abbey cuddling the baby |
This may be the quickest pregnancy ever. I swear it's flying by so fast that my head can't keep up with the weeks. But just like that, it's the end of the second trimester and the beginning of the end.
The second trimester is known for its ease. I clearly remember getting a burst of energy during my first pregnancy - that was not to happen this time. These past weeks have been filled with all the nausea, exhaustion, cravings, fussiness, sleeplessness and pain that the first trimester brought.
My biggest frustration, though, has been the reminder that this is the stage where everyone feels the need to comment. I make no apologies for finding that annoying. Still, nothing can cut through the absolute joy I have in knowing that I'm growing a healthy baby in here.
The good news is that the pain has been easing. While this was the time it was at its worst when I was pregnant with Abbey - I could hardly move - this time it marks me being a bit more mobile. Which is a sign that I've found some good ways to manage it this time around.
There is one big similarity between this baby and Abbey: these are kids who squirm and move constantly. It's rare for me to go ten minutes without being kicked. I love it, that constant reminder that all is okay, and it always gets me thinking about what this little one will be like.
This is the pregnancy that sees no martyrdom. If I'm tired, I sleep; if I don't feel up to doing something, I don't do it. Simple as that. Those who know me know how reliable I usually am, how much I push myself - and they understand that I just can't be that person right now. I also have a support team around me: my Pilates instructor and massage therapist are amazing women who help me physically, and my friends and family - in particular Steve and my Mum - help me so much in letting me talk and whinge and vent and analyse and be lazy when I need to.
This may (!) be the last time I'm ever pregnant. While I'm the first to admit I don't love pregnancy and I can't help thinking ahead, I'm determined to make the best of this. We fought every step of the way to have our children, and this is part of the privilege that is parenting.
I can't help thinking how soon it will be that I'll be holding our baby in my arms. And for that, everything is worthwhile.
So glad to read that your pain is being managed adn that you have great help and are cutting yourself some slack too! I can't wait to "meet" your baby. And, my two were soooo active in utero it was silly....umm, they're like that out in the world too! :) Here's hoping the 3rd trimester is a dream xxx
ReplyDeleteSo worthwhile.
ReplyDeleteI had a lady (stranger) come and tell me this morning that she just wants to stick a band-aid over my belly button.
(31 weeks and my belly is huuuge. What about it, lady??!!)
I did refrain from suggesting that she use the band-aid elsewhere.
I hope the third trimester is enjoyable for you (aches and all).
Good on you for the non-martyr stance - you've inspired me... to sit down with a book instead of cleaning.
:-) xx
I know exactly what you mean.
ReplyDeletePregnancy is not always easy, but being pregnant os not something you (or I) took for granted. At the end of the day, a moving, squirming, kicking baby is worth it all.
It's so wonderful that, even though you're not a fan of being pregnant, you're still savouring the experience. You are so inspiring!
ReplyDeleteI can't believe how fast your pregnancy is going... Before you know it you'll have two little ones to cuddle :)