66 Days and I’ll Be a Mom
They say to enjoy your pregnancy because it goes by fast, and, boy, were they right. It feels like just yesterday I saw two pink lines. We are now in the third and final trimester with less than 10 weeks to go. I read in parenting magazines and heard from doctors, friends, and family that this stage of pregnancy brings a whirl of feelings from tiredness (YES) to worry (YES) and excitement (YES).
I’m going to be a mom.
I don’t think the reality truly set in…yet. However, it did start to hit me when Matt and I were at a parenting class last week and the instructor discussed labor and delivery and the first few weeks of parenting a newborn. All I could think was, “We created a tiny human who we get to love and raise together.” It’s pretty incredible. While I’m nervous about being a new parent, I’m incredibly excited about this new chapter and cannot wait to meet Matthew.
What the Third Trimester Has Been Like
The first trimester brought a lot of sleepiness and in the morning I had some gagging. I have to say I feel fortunate because I know a lot of women who experienced severe morning sickness. I gagged over the toilet for a few minutes, no throwing up, and then went about my day. As soon as I came home from work, though, I was out like a light bulb.
The second trimester they say is the best since you’re glowing. And, I certainly did. I had more energy than I thought imaginable and stayed active. I worked out at the gym, went shopping, visited the shore, and I could stay up pretty late.
Now that I’m in the third trimester, I’m feeling tired again and don’t have the energy I did in the second. This is also when the baby grows rapidly. I’m finding myself short of breath, which is common. Getting out of bed is a workout in itself and I find that I am restrained or unable to do everyday activities like I used to.
All in all, though, this pregnancy really hasn’t been bad. I feel lucky.
Many people told me (and some more bluntly than others) that being pregnant in the summer would be harsh. But I have to disagree. Summers in Jersey are always hard with the high humidity. Maternity sundresses and sandals have helped me stay comfortable. Plus, I’m used to this weather.
Getting Ready for Our Baby Boy
Lately, we’ve been working on putting the nursery together, straightening up the house, and attending parenting classes. Our baby shower is only a few weeks away and we’re thrilled to celebrate this special time with family and friends.
Preparing for Motherhood
One question on my mind is, “How do you prepare for motherhood?” A lot of people (family, friends, and random people I’ve bumped into while shopping or running errands) have told me (and I already kinda knew this) that you can read every parenting book and take every parenting class, and you still won’t be fully prepared for your new role as a parent. Kids are certainly full of surprises and I’m sure parenting is something you learn as you go.
I created this list of things to remember as I enter my new role as a parent:
Give yourself a break. It’s all new and no parent is perfect. It’s a never-ending learning process. Laugh at the silly things when you can.
Use your support system: Family and friends are a great source of support. Turn to them when you need a break or help.
Be patient. Welcoming a baby to the world is a big transition and it will take time to adjust to it. Don’t get stressed out when things get hectic. It’s normal.
Take care of yourself: I admit, this last trimester I haven’t worked out nearly as much and haven’t had much “me time.” I remind myself that my son depends on me and I need to be healthy for him, too. Make time for yourself.
Keep your goals in mind: I plan on going back to work after maternity leave to support my family, focus on my career, and so Matthew can benefit from socialization and interaction with other kids. I also want to dedicate more time to blogging, work on getting my Facebook page alive and active, look into marketing certifications/classes, read more, and get back to a healthy lifestyle.
Are you a parent? If so, how did you prepare for your upcoming role? What advice would you give a first-time parent?
