We’re all familiar with the classic tale of the mom who tirelessly attempted to conceive for months, eagerly peeing on a stick only to witness a joyous smiley face on the screen. In that magical moment, a rainbow appeared outside, and angels serenaded her with the news of her pregnancy. Yeah, if you’re looking for that story, you might be better off reading any pregnancy book written before 2010.
Alright, where should I begin? I guess the story kicks off with the rude awakening of what I would soon learn to be morning sickness. Did I have a bit too much to drink last night? No. Could it be some questionable food? No, Taylor would likely be feeling it too. Hm. I went on with the day and assumed it was just some bad food, until it happened again.
While nose deep in my toilet that probably needed another deep clean, it struck me—when was my last period? Panic immediately set in, prompting me to come up with an excuse to my husband so I could discreetly rush to Walgreens without spilling this potentially life-altering (seriously, holy crap) secret. After a quick store visit to buy tests, and some of the worst tummy cramps I’ve ever had while in line to buy them, I return home and ask my husband what he’s up to. He responds, “making homemade mayonnaise, I saw a recipe on Instagram, and…” – okay, he’s clearly not onto anything. Phew.
I took the test. Nothing. I took another test. Is that a second line? Why is it PINK? I took another test. Nothing?! More pink lines?!! I’ve never done this before, but I know deep inside what it means. Not thinking about anything other than panic, I immediately told my husband. Ladies: unless you’ve actively been trying and preparing for a child, please deeply consider holding off on this announcement. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, just picture his potential reaction. It’ll most likely be ten times bigger than yours. Take my advice; let the realization sink in before sharing it with your partner! Anyway, the second line was visible, but since it wasn’t a deep maroon, my husband wasn’t buying it. In fact, he went back downstairs to finish his stinkin’ mayonnaise recipe.
I wish I was kidding.
Navigating the time between suspecting pregnancy and hearing the unequivocal words, “you’re having a child,” can be a bit of a gray area. I had a major a moment of uncertainty when one doctor told me I was “absolutely miscarrying” due to the absence of a consistently positive test. However, after a second opinion and a blood test, I got the big yes. A valuable lesson came from this experience: trust your instincts. If you genuinely feel pregnant, don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself. Never allow a dismissive doctor to undermine your concerns—seek that second opinion to ensure your well-being and peace of mind.
I had a bit of an interesting first trimester. Lots of belly cramping that had doctors a bit worried, lots (I mean LOTS) of vomiting, lots of worrying, a few (Okay, probably 6) hospital visits, dehydration, weight loss, cravings, a bleeding scare, and even earned myself a “regular” customer label at Taco Bell. Is this the usual? Maybe.
Listen. The first trimester is undeniably challenging, a three-month stretch that feels like an eternity. If I could offer one piece of valuable advice to those contemplating parenthood, it would be to consider getting a therapist. Personally, my therapist became my lifeline, guiding me through the mental tumult of those transformative moments. Alongside Taylor’s unwavering support, even during our frequent Taco Bell runs (which, unfortunately, often ended with me parting ways with the contents), I genuinely believe I wouldn’t have navigated those early stages without their brutal assistance.
First trimester positives:
I can’t explain this, but food tastes SO much better when you’re pregnant. Major W.
For every sick day you have, you know your baby is healthy and growing. Remembering that really makes this stretch easier.
The amazing, incredibly humbling sound of your babies heartbeat.
First trimester negatives:
If I’m being honest, pretty much everything else.
It felt like fate played a part in scheduling my 25th birthday as the kickoff to my second trimester. Of course I had hopeful dreams that this enchanting first day would signal the end of all the discomforts—farewell to the pains, the nausea, the food aversions, and the whole shebang. But truth be told, if my memory serves me right, it took a good couple of weeks into that second trimester before I started feeling a smidge better.
Then it finally happened. Ah, the glory of the second trimester! I made it, folks. The baby bump is making its debut, and I’m gradually wrapping my head around the notion of being a parent—how splendid! Around the 13-week mark, my partner and I wrapped up our house-packing escapades and ventured to the scenic mountains of Western North Carolina. All I can say is thank **** for professional movers! We had this vision of raising our kids surrounded by these majestic mountains, and every day we pat ourselves on the back for making that decision. Life is an adventure, why do it all in one place?
Second trimester positives:
You can tell your friends and family whenever you feel comfortable doing so, but a lot of people will tell you to wait until this time. Having the support and feeling this secret lift off your chest is a huge plus!
Nausea lessons and you’re able to keep your meals down.
You have so much more energy! Just try not to use it all too quickly.
Second trimester negatives:
Hm, aside from just regular pregnancy things, sciatica can start during this stretch, and it can definitely be not-fun.
Ah, the third trimester, dun dun duuuuun!! But honestly, it’s not as scary as it sounds. Picture this: Taco feasts, evening walks with your partner plotting the mysteries of parenthood, and a whole lotta red raspberry leaf tea. Mix it up with some lemonade. You’ll thank me later.
As you waddle into the final stretch, those birth fears really do vanish. Suddenly, you’re willing to try just about anything to evict the watermelon squatter in your belly. Enter the weird and wonderful world of curb walking, snickers made from dates (yes, really), the horizontal tango (nipple stimulation, ladies, it’s the secret weapon), gallons of tea, primrose oil (nature’s little helper), and don’t forget your trusty crusty medicine ball. It’s like a circus act, but with a baby exit strategy!
Third trimester positives:
That bump! You are looking CUTE girl! Just don’t look at the swelling in your face.. Or your feet.. Actually, just maybe don’t look in the mirror for a bit!
Eat your heart, soul, and butt out. You deserve it.
Third trimester negatives:
If you aren’t already getting up to pee 1-2 times a night, prepare a nice path to your nighttime throne with nothing you can trip over. Maybe get a nightlight.
Now, buckle up because delivery? Well, that’s a tale for another time—complete with plot twists, wild moments, and a bit of chaos. Let’s just say I spent a good 9 hours in the hospital while there was no power. But hey, let’s not skip the good stuff. Before we dive headfirst into the baby adventures, it was only fair to spill the beans on my pregnancy journey. I wouldn’t dare kick off this parenting blog without the deets!
And guess what? I’m not here to monologue, in fact, it feels a bit odd; so I’m all ears for your pregnancy sagas! So, hit me with your belly laughs, midnight cravings, and all the wild adventures in Babyland. This blog isn’t just mine; it’s ours. Let’s turn it into a virtual baby shower of stories and giggles. Let’s hear your favorite pregnant story!
Bye for now!
