I really want to kick myself for not writing often enough, because by the time I sit down to write a post, I already have multiple topics to expend on. Like, for example, I wanted to write a final pregnancy post on the great things and not-so-great things about pregnancy. And I also wanted to write a post reflecting on my delivery, when the time came. And then a post reflecting on my first week of pregnancy. Well, looks like I'll have to either write three posts today or spread them out because I had my precious baby 2 weeks ago on July 30th! She is now 13 days old and I have a lot to say! So, I will write a 3 part entry and will make it quick because my free time is quite diminished these days, lol!
Pregnancy Reflection
Looking back, pregnancy was amazing. There were times when I would have laughed at hearing the future me say that, but it's true. There are days, with my newborn, where I wish I was pregnant again. I would still have my daughter with me, but I also would still have my free schedule and my sleep. Despite the physical discomforts which are ever-present for 9 months, except for a small window in the beautiful 2nd trimester, pregnancy is a beautiful experience. I look at my daughter, sleeping...finally...and her gorgeous little face...and realize that these past nine months, she has been developing from a tiny little imperceptible cell to a full-fledged baby. God used my body to make this little beautiful miracle. Awesome!
If I had any advice that I could give to pregnant moms, which I did not value enough, it's this: SLEEP NOW! SLEEP! You think your sleeping is disrupted by frequent trips to the bathroom and that a newborn will disrupt your sleep in a similar pattern-only waking you a few times a night, between periods of peaceful sleep. But this is wrong. When a newborn comes, she takes ALL your time. I hardly ever sleep. I'm up all night. And I'm exhausted. There are times when I miss being uncomfortably pregnant but well rested. Please sleep while you still can..lol!
The most annoying thing about pregnancy was having everyone touching, rubbing and patting my belly. It was very uncomfortable and I felt like my personal space had somehow been devoured my expanding belly. I never knew how to ask people to refrain because I didn't want to be offensive. But next time, I will. Because no one is trying to make me uncomfortable, so I know it won't be a problem to let them know when I am. However, take advantage of the attention you get when you're pregnant. While it can be overwhelming and even intrusive, at times, it is the only time strangers go out of their way to strike up conversations at you, give you friendly smiles and offer seats, assistance and help for you! That is something really nice about pregnancy. :)
The hands-down, best thing about pregnancy was feeling the baby move around inside of me. That is when we really started to bond as mother and daughter. It was reassuring and amazing! I often found myself awaking at night to her little nudges and kicks. To me, it seems that this is where a mother's attentiveness to her child begins. You know, that maternal instinctual reflex that tells you what your baby needs before she expresses it or that causes you to startle awake whenever she makes an unfamiliar and new sound. It begins with the kicks, in my opinion.
The last month of pregnancy was the most difficult, physically, but also the most exciting. Even though I couldn't see me feet, my belly was being stretched beyond what I felt was full capacity, I felt and looked like a blimp, I had constant heartburn, I was achy, etc., I had the excitement of knowing my baby was nearing her debut! The first month of pregnancy was the absolute worst. I knew I still had months to go and morning sickness was kicking my butt and keeping me glued to the path between my bed and the toilet.
Pregnancy was tough but the most amazing experience! Probably my bit of the most invaluable advice I could give to first time pregnant moms and even myself in any subsequent pregnancies is to not over-stress! There are so many guidelines, rules and warnings that are doled out these days and they can really cause a lot of stress and over-caution. Especially for girls like me, haha. I scrutinized everything I did, everything I ate and drank and even everywhere I went. Definitely exercise caution, always, but don't allow the caution to override your enjoyment of pregnancy! As many wise women told me, several times, women have been doing this for thousands of years without the aid of books and stringent medical advice!
Pregnancy was amazing and now I have my little newborn in my arms! I am going to write about labor and life with a newborn soon! I don't get many chances to write and when I do, it's with one hand...BUT I will write them soon! :)
