SECOND TRIMESTER BLOG POST
If you’re reading my second-trimester recap after finishing up my first (first-trimester recap), I have good news for you! It DOES get better; well, it did for me! I remember reading so many first-trimester recaps online and getting frustrated with the “perfect pregnancy talk” and “luckily, I never got sick.” I even doubted the relatable ones when they said they eventually felt better, but now, I’m less bitter about it all. I feel like my pregnancy has taken all sorts of turns. I traded in those terrible side effects for more physically uncomfortable ones, but I’ll take these over being sick any day!
Can you believe I only have a few more months before our baby arrives? People are not kidding when they say, “it will all go by so fast!” Today, I’m sharing my second-trimester journey, answering a few of your questions, and sharing maternity products I have purchased and loved so far! I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’ve genuinely enjoyed the second half of my second trimester.
Favorite Maternity Clothes
Luckily, most of my pregnancy has been through the winter months, so I’ve been able to wear my oversized sweaters, baggy sweatpants, and leggings. I haven’t purchased too many maternity items, but the ones I have purchased have been incredible! I know I’ll be living in those oversized Target T-shirts, tunic-style dresses, and soft shorts when April and May roll around. I don’t want to go out and buy more clothing, so I will put my fashion on hold and wear whatever fits. I’ll continue hiding out from the fashion police.
ZJCT Women’s Yoga Sweatpants Comfy Loose Casual Wide Leg Lounge Pants with Pockets
Every morning and night, I LIVE in these lounge pants. They are so loose and soft. The bands don’t even feel like they’re wrapped around you! It’s the closest thing to wearing pants but feeling like you’re naked. I purchased them in grey, blue, brown, and green and will grab a few more. I want to wear them postpartum as well! Even if you’re not pregnant, these pants will make anyone happy.
The Poshdivah Women’s Maternity Leggings are INCREDIBLE! I purchased one pair when my regular leggings started getting tight. I fell so in love with them that I ordered six more pairs in different colors. I purchased several in black because I figured I’d be wearing these daily. They are inexpensive and feel just like my Lululemon leggings. I bought the medium and have been able to wear them throughout my pregnancy. You will not regret this purchase! They don’t shrink or wear down in the wash, either.
Old Navy Maternity Jeans
I LOVE the Old Navy maternity jeans. I only bought one pair since they’re a bit pricy and I don’t plan to wear jeans that often. I was not expecting them to be so darn comfortable and cute! They don’t have buttons or zippers, and they are regular jeans. They slide right on!
Bras
I have purchased some new sports bras at TJMaxx that are super soft and went up a few sizes to give myself extra breathing room. I didn’t realize how restricted I would feel after week 22. I love that the TjMaxx bras come in sets and are pretty inexpensive. I also found some nursing bras there that zip down the front! I hate bras with back clamps, and most of the stores and online have those.
What Products Are You Currently Using?
I have changed out almost ALL of my products. I only use Tarte Clay Foundation under my eyes and the Honest Company Mascara for makeup. I wear makeup maybe once a week.
As soon as I found out I was pregnant, I traded all my products for pregnancy-safe ones. I think I’ll end up sticking with these from here on out!
Native Deodorant
Earth Mama Deodorant
Gentle Facial Cleanser Burt’s Bees
Honest Beauty Deep Hydrating Face Cream (do not put on after the shower)
Night Time Cream Sensitive Skin Burt’s Bees
Burt’s Bees Mama Body Oil
Origins Hand Cream
Down Girl Hatch Mama Foot Lotion
Nipple + Lip Balm Hatch Mama
Hatch Mama Belly Oil
Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash
Aveeno Fresh Greens Blend Conditioner
Aveeno Fresh Greens Blend Shampoo
Love Mama Honest Relief Soothing Jelly
Burt’s Bees Belly Butter
Are You Taking Any Medications?
I am not taking any medications other than my prenatal and iron supplements. During the first trimester and the beginning of the second, I took Unisom + B6 to help with sickness. It was a game-changer! I had to slowly wean myself from Unisom and B6 because I immediately got sick the first time I tried to go cold turkey. From week 16-22, I only took 1/4 of each tablet until I didn’t need them anymore. I only took Zofran a few times to help break a cycle, but that was if I couldn’t keep food down for over 24-hours. I haven’t experienced any nausea for the past ten weeks!
Second-Trimester Diet
It’s MUCH better than the first. My food aversions have finally gone away, and I’m able to eat fruit, fresh vegetables, proteins, and better-for-you foods. Now, I still get the crazy cravings, but nothing like it was before. My appetite is much more robust, and I have to eat more frequent meals throughout the day. I have been loving berries, cantaloupe, pizza, romaine lettuce-based salads, decaf cappuccinos, smoothies, cereal, oatmeal, grilled chicken, steak, and cooked vegetables! My sweet cravings are for things like cake and cookies.
Are You Having a Baby Shower
I wasn’t planning on having a baby shower because my family is all over the place, and they’ll be visiting in May/June when the baby arrives. My good girlfriends are doing a little shower for me to celebrate the baby this weekend.
Have You Picked Out Your Baby Names?
Yes! We are 100% sure of our baby names for our boy/girl. I love that we are both so mutually in love with the names, so there is no back and forth arguing. I don’t think I’ll share the names online, but maybe their nicknames!
Is Your Husband Allowed at Your Appointments?
He was allowed at my appointments during the first five months, but they’ve changed it now where husbands cannot come in with you. This makes me mad because I believe the husband is just as important in these appointments as the wife. It takes two to make a baby. It also doesn’t make too much sense to me because if he has covid, then I most likely have it. It’s rough seeing 75k maskless people gather for a football game, but my husband can’t come to a doctor’s appointment with me. It makes me sad for partners that want to be involved, and Kyle is just as excited as I am. He would have loved to listen to the heartbeat, and I think it’s a crucial way to help dad and baby bond. I know there are so many opinions on this, and I’m not trying to start any kind of debate (so don’t even try to leave hateful comments because I won’t approve them), but it’s a frustration of mine. I can understand why people are tired of all of this. We listen to the rules by social distancing, wearing masks, staying home if you don’t feel well, and getting vaccinated, but when does it all end? And half of the rules don’t even make sense. So no, unfortunately, I have to go to the appointments alone.
What Symptoms Are You experiencing?
My sickness and weird first-trimester symptoms have turned into more physical ones. A few have stuck around!
I feel like the baby is sitting on my bladder at all times. It feels like I have to pee, even though I don’t. I’ve dealt with ligament stretching these past few weeks, so my ribs are finally taking a hit. I’ve mentioned this before, but I had a horrible pinched nerve in my back before getting pregnant. I was regularly seeing a chiropractor, but that didn’t help. Since getting pregnant, it’s excruciating. If I trigger the pain, it’ll be an all-day thing. Walking without good posture, cleaning, cooking, or even driving for too long can trigger the pain. It’s like sharp burning and stabbing pain in the middle of my back. I’m now getting prenatal massages to help with the discomfort, and I find that my heating pad works the best for instant relief. I’ll have to take care of this after having the baby since it’s a pain I’ve had for years.
I still have swollen gums, which the dentist said should clear as soon as the baby arrives. It’s due to the extra hormones. The good thing about the hormones is that my skin and face have never been this soft or clear in my entire life. I feel like I have my second-grade complexion back! It’s true what they say about the pregnancy glow.
Aside from that, I was fortunate to feel GREAT during my second trimester. I deserved it after the first 😂
How much weight have you gained so far?
I didn’t think I’d ever share this, but I just want to be relatable. So many people have asked this question, and I know it’s so personal. When I first started blogging, it always revolved around my body, so I get the focus on it still, even if I’ve managed to stay away from that focus. Pregnancy is beautiful, but yes, I’ve put on the expected weight. Even though I’ve been walking a ton, eating well, drinking water, and getting good sleep, I’ve put on 36 pounds so far. I’m 5’8, so I do carry it pretty well. I know that would scare some people, but I’m not even slightly concerned. Being pregnant means storing extra fat, growing a different organ, retaining water, gaining up to 10 extra pints of blood, carrying a baby, and so much more! There are so many weight factors that are simply uncontrollable, and every body is different. Some people hardly gain weight, and some just pack it on quickly. It started creeping up later in my second trimester. I’m sure I’ll put on another 10 or 15 pounds in the next ten weeks, but it’s all worth it!
There are some people who are absolutely adorable while pregnant. I am just not one of them 😂
Weight is temporary. Sure, it SUCKS not to fit my cute clothes, but it’s just something I’ll work towards when the doctor gives me the green light to work out and diet. I plan on breastfeeding, so I won’t be beating myself up after labor because I know even breastfeeding can cause extreme hunger. The best thing you can do is listen to your body. I can’t wait for long walks in the stroller, hot yoga, and tennis to start back up. The good thing is I’m having a baby in the warmer months. I know so many women struggle with weight, so I wanted to share that I’m right there with you, and it’ll be so worth it! Your baby doesn’t care how much weight you’ve packed on. They care about you being the best parent to them. Pregnancy is beautiful and a blessing. As long as the doctor tells you you’re healthy and everything is fine, just keep enjoying it. I plan to share all about body changes and my journey after postpartum.
What Have You Enjoyed The Most?
I have enjoyed experiencing all of the beautiful changes my body has made. Sometimes, I’ll sit for hours, holding my belly and feeling the baby kick. It’s my favorite part, and we have one active baby! The doctor told me to start doing kick counts. You want to make sure your baby moves ten times in 1 hour, but having a posterior placenta and a very active baby, I get ten kicks in about five minutes. And these kicks are strong! You can see them bulging on the outside of my stomach. It’s super fun, and I love it. I should post some videos for you all soon!
I have enjoyed the learning process as well. Every time I read a pregnancy book, I find it fascinating and just want to learn more and more!
This has been such a fun way to bond as a married couple. We have so much fun working on the nursery, making trips to BuyBuyBaby, and just going through this experience together. We often talk about what we think our child will be like, and it’s fun to imagine how they’ll look, sound, or what gender they’ll be! I also love using the pregnancy card around Kyle 😂 shh! The other night I woke up so thirsty, and he insisted on going downstairs to get my ice water, or he would make the trip up the stairs to grab something I forgot. He’s just the best partner! He’s very attentive and always asks if I need anything. He was like that before, but now it’s extra! I think dads try to make up for not going through the discomfort of carrying a child.
The two anatomy scans we had were amazing! I loved seeing our baby moving around in there.
Are You Still Waiting to Find Out The Gender?
Yes! We are so excited about the surprise. Every time we go to an appointment or ultrasound, it’s the first thing that comes out of our mouths. We don’t want the surprise to be ruined. We have waited this long, so it would be sad if the gender were to slip. I have zero sense of what I’m having, but kyle and I have our bets on opposite genders. He thinks we’re having a girl, and I think we’re having a boy. I am carrying pretty low, which most people say is a boy! But all of that is just a bunch of old wives’ tales. I’ve kept everything in the nursery neutral, but I’ll have to buy a set of bows to go with some of the outfits if it’s a girl.
Have Your Dogs Noticed You’re Pregnant?
I’m not sure! Leo is exceptionally clingy with me, but that may be because he’s my little walking buddy. He has also stopped jumping up on me and will come to lay his head on my belly. The baby sometimes kicks him when Leo puts his head on my stomach. I’m not sure if he notices, but I read that dogs can hear your baby in the womb after 27-weeks. I know he’s going to be the best doggy brother! Tux has always been sweet and gentle, so it’s hard to tell if he notices.
Second-Trimester Workouts?
Walking! I still walk every day, even if it’s just one mile. I am pretty active around the house doing things, and I’ve also tried incorporating prenatal YouTube yoga videos into my weekly routine. Sometimes, I get a little bored with those videos and end up laying on the floor doing my stretches, but it’s the effort that counts, right?
I have noticed more discomfort this past week that makes walking harder. I get awful bladder pressure and need to sit down for a second. I try not to drink anything a few hours before my walk to help.
Are You and Your Husband Taking Any Classes?
Yes! We had our first class through our hospital on Saturday morning. It was a 4-hour class that covered everything! I loved taking the course through the hospital because they explained everything they offer, gave a tour, and told us what we could expect. All hospitals do things differently, so I felt prepared after that class. I have also been reading so much!
Are You Feeling Over Emotional at All?
I figured pregnancy would put me in hormonal overdrive. I don’t think I’ve been this calm and relaxed in my entire life. Nothing seems to bother me, I’m not crying all the time (my period hormones would send me into a crying frenzy), and I feel extremely stress-free. I had a bit of anxiety during the first few weeks of pregnancy, but that went away pretty quickly. I’ve been very happy and taking everything as it comes. I used to feel super restless, but that has gone away. I think my body wants me to chill out now and then.
How did your 1-hour glucose testing go?
I don’t know why I was so nervous about taking this test. I’ve heard so many awful things on the internet about it. First off, I chose the orange flavor. It was DELICIOUS! You have to wait an hour after drinking the glucose before getting your blood drawn, but I had an appointment directly after with my OBGYN, which helped make up for some of the time sitting in the lobby with a sugar high. Like many people warned me, I didn’t get dizzy, have a headache, or have a wild sugar crash afterward. I was more tired later that afternoon, but I think it’s because I didn’t have my coffee, and I slept terrible the night before.
I got my results back a day later and had passed. I was shocked because so many people said they failed the first test (i guess they make it easy to fail just to make sure they don’t miss GD), and I was surprised because my blood sugar was low. I think the range is 65-139, and I was at 62. The doctors said that is completely fine. I go on many walks, drink a lot of water, and get a good amount of sleep at night, all of which contribute to managing high blood sugar levels.
If you’re worried about your glucose test, don’t be! It was a breeze, and if you fail the first time, most people pass the second test! I’m upset I worry about a glucose test based on internet opinions. But again, everyone is different, so your experience may differ from mine!
Is Your Nursery Finished?
Just about! We have everything done that needs to be finished before the baby arrives. The only thing we’re waiting on is wall art and the roller shades. I thought I wanted to get it done now, but I think I’ll wait until we know the gender. It’s been the hardest thing to pick out. I may even have someone install wallpaper. I did buy a few wall pieces we’ll be hanging this weekend. It’s so cozy and calming in there! Even though the baby will be sleeping in our bedroom for the first few months, we’ll hang out in the nursery often. The room gets super dark and cozy! I’ve been working on organizing everything in there!
I will do a nursery blog post soon! (update – check out our nursery blog post!)
Do You Have Your Bags Packed?
Yes! After finishing everything else, it was the only thing I had left to do. I love that there are so many hospital bag recourses out there, and I loved hearing what people used and didn’t use. I’m keeping it pretty simple since I know the hospital provides a lot of things, but during our birthing class, the RN gave us a list of things we definitely should bring. I’ll do a separate post on that with everything I’m packing! This will give you experienced moms the chance to tell me what I’m missing and what I don’t need!
What Baby/Pregnancy Books Have You Read?
I have LOVED diving into pregnancy books. I feel like I cannot get enough information. I even read the Newborn 101 book twice.
Newborn 101: Secrets from Expert Nurses on Preparing and Caring for Your Baby at Home
The Newborn Handbook: Your Guide to Bringing Home Baby
Lactivate!: A User’s Guide to Breastfeeding
I’m ready for my next book, so please leave recommendations in the comment section!
Will You Have a Doula?
No. The only person I want in the delivery room with me is Kyle. We will do a lactation consultant before birth and after birth, but that’s as close as we’ll get to having anyone else help. I think the nurses do a good job coaching you through delivery, and sometimes it’s a bit much when people are in their way (I’ve heard this from many nurses.) I’d probably consider a doula if I didn’t have such a supportive husband! I know a lot of people who have loved having doulas, though.
Do You Have a Birth Plan?
I’ve learned that having a birth plan can set you up for many disappointments. I have a few things I’d like to happen at birth, like epidural, skin-to-skin, and a few other small requests, but I understand that anything can change, and there are uncontrollable moments, and I’m ready to take them on. I will prepare myself for anything to come and hope for the best. I feel so calm about giving birth and weirdly excited for that moment. I’m feeling ready!
Are You Going on a Baby Moon?
We decided not to go on a babymoon. I’m kind of regretting it because I could use a warm vacation right now, but trying to find a getaway in January and February seemed impossible. All of the hotels are booked up and insanely overpriced. We also decided not to go with omicron and the flu being highest in early January. We are planning a big beach vacation in late summer, and I know the purpose of a babymoon is to have a final trip without kids, but I’m more excited to have a vacation with our baby.
Things You Miss Now That You’re Pregnant?
I miss my endurance. It’s crazy how slow and out of breath things make me now. I still keep up with my walks and doing things around the house, but it takes me twice the time to do them. I’m huffing and puffing when I get to the top of the stairs. I love walking Leo 3 miles a day, but now it takes me over an hour and a half to do it. I used to be able to knock out a three-mile walk in 45-minutes.
I miss gardening. I’m still doing a few gardening things here and there, but I’m nervous about getting toxoplasmosis. The chances are low, but we have a neighbor with two outdoor cats who often like to hang out in my garden. I can’t enjoy it when all I can think about is toxoplasmosis. I did some rose pruning yesterday, which is fine since I’m just cutting down the roses and staying out of the dirt. My mom is coming this weekend to help me do more in-ground things to prepare for spring. Thank goodness for her!
Let’s be honest. I miss fitting into cute clothing! Every time I see my clothes in the closet, I just want to squeeze into them, but I’m grabbing my leggings and stretchy shirts for the time being.
I can’t wait to return to my tennis group and do hot yoga! Kyle works from home three days a week, so I’ll use those mornings to escape to hot yoga. Walking and hot yoga will be my postpartum plan to get back into shape. I don’t mean getting my body back, but just that endurance and some muscle strength I’ve lost.
I miss turkey sandwiches, sushi, and a few other off-limit foods! Oh, and sleeping on my back!!!
I appreciate you all stopping by to read my 2nd-trimester recap blog! If I missed any of your questions, feel free to leave those in the comment section below!
Questions for you!
- What part of pregnancy surprised you the most?
- Did you purchase a ton of maternity clothing?
- What things did you miss most while being pregnant?
Catch up reading on our BIRTH BLOG!!!
Congratulations! I’m in my second trimester with my second child – so much better than first trimester! I loved the book Moms on Call – was super helpful with my first baby and I plan to reread!
Hi, Ellen!
I have that book in my cart right now. I’ve heard wonderful things. I’m so happy to hear that your second trimester is going well for you!
You sound like you have such a great attitude going into the birth experience- you’re so right that often people set too high expectations of how things will be and it can be disappointing whereas you seem to have it pitched just right! I’m really sorry you can’t have Kyle there for the appointments though- that must be tough for both of you – covid has taken a lot of special moments from people in so many ways- it’s really sad.
My skin didn’t change much but my hair got super soft and glossy in pregnancy- I loved it!
I didn’t buy loads of maternity clothes but I did have a few pairs of smart jeans as I could wear them to work. Now I’m in my second pregnancy the only thing I’m buying new is a swimsuit!
I missed having more than 2 caffeinated coffees (and do even more so second time!) and on some nice summer days I missed having a nice chilled glass of wine. Fortunately in the UK we’re still allowed sushi and sandwich meats as the preparation laws are super strict, so I ate a lot of both! I did enjoy having a perfectly cooked rare steak after baby was born though!
Hi, Steph!
Thank you! That means a lot. And you’re definitely right about that. Seems like we’ve been playing dodgeball with covid these past four years with so many things. Tired of it!
My hair hasn’t gotten that 😆 but that’s because I’m not very good at hair maintenance lately!
Ohhh yes! You gotta have a swimsuit for summer. I sort of wished I was able o swim more during pregnancy! The water and floating sound so so so good right now!!!
I miss some of those things, too! It’s weird. I’m not a big fan of alcohol as I’d rather go for the desserts, but I’m craving a glass of rose! lol
I promise if you go see a pelvic floor PT you will not regret it. They can help with all the pain you’re experiencing and help you prepare for birth. I saw a chiropractor through my first pregnancy but had a pelvic floor PT for the next two and it was life changing. Also- I gained so much weight during pregnancy. Your body gains what it needs to and theres nothing you can do.
I was 10x more hungry nursing then I even was hungry. Get ready!
Lastly- I’m predicting a boy! My moods totally leveled with my boys but not my daughter
I have looked into that! I’m going to try to find someone local! I did watch some PF PT videos that were helpful on YouTube, but that still doesn’t give the full experience
That’s why I’m also predicting a boy! My skin, my mood, my hair is terrible, and my carrying low!
I 100% agree with that recommendation- pelvic floor guidance is totally worth the time and money- it’s life changing!
Currently 4 months PP with my first.
My dog knew I was going into labor before I did! The night before my husband had gone out to get his hair cut and my dog just sat in the middle of the living room and stared at me 😳. 24 hours later we were heading to the hospital and 4 hours after that she was here!
That is crazy! I was just reading that dogs can sometimes sense labor! They don’t necessarily know it’s a baby, but they know that something is happening.
4 hours was quick labor! Praying for that lol
Thank you so much for posting this ❤️ I am 1 week behind you- due 5/7/22 and this post was so relatable and much needed!!
Congrats, Andrea!! Our due dates are so close!
So great hearing all your updates!! Are you doing anything to prepare for labor? Would love to hear if you are! Any specific exercises, red raspberry tea, dates, etc.
The Happiest Baby on The Block is hands down the best baby book and made alllll the difference for us! We had a slap in the face with our first. We had all these ideas about a happy, belly laughing baby but our girl had tongue and lip ties (SUPER painful breastfeeding and she wasn’t gaining weight like she should so had to switch to formula with some breastmilk) and she developed colic. On top of that, she naturally has a serious personality but is spirited (a term for a specific type person…we had never heard until our IBCLC told us). But the happiest baby book helped a ton! That and the Wonder Years book.
You will do great mama! just accept help everywhere you can get it!!! you’ve got this!
Hi Sarah!
Thank you 😊 I haven’t done any labor prepping until I get closer aside from exercise and keeping up on my reading.
I will definitely add that book to my cart today! Thank you for sharing that.
xo thanks again!!!
My niece’s baby had tongue tie also! The weird thing is that the lactation consultant at the hospital didn’t even detect it, so my niece was left wondering why breast feeding was so so difficult.
It was the pediatrician who discovered it and fixed it.
I lost 35lbs by the end of the week I gave birth, so don’t worry about the weight.
My favorite books were Baby 411, Bringing up Bebe and Moms on Call book #1. I didn’t pick up Moms on Call until maybe 6 weeks after baby was born. That’s about when it becomes useful.
Thank you, Corie!
All the mask and testing restrictions with appointments and whatnot are one of the biggest reasons I do not want to have a baby right now. I want to enjoy it all like a normal person, and I feel like I just can’t do that at this time. It’s really sad that we’re taking things away from parents, but allowing bars and concerts to be packed with thousands of people. My husband keeps pushing for us to do it now because he’s 38, but I just cannot bring myself to do it when I feel I will be robbed of so many things from such a special experience. I know people think I’m probably being overdramatic, but this craziness needs to end.
Wishing you, the baby and Kyle all the best!
I don’t blame you, Whitney. I totally get the frustration.
I will say, doctors appointments are only a TINY fraction of your pregnancy, and there are plenty of hospitals that will allow your husband to join with you. Unfortunately, we paid everything in advance, and it’s too late to switch offices.
If you’re ready, don’t let these dumb rules keep you from it.
♥️
I’m really surprised that the doctor’s office won’t allow Kyle to go in with you.
I was just at the gyno myself today and there were so many couples there. All the husbands went in with their wives. There is a sign saying only one person can go in with a patient, and that’s the only restriction.
Like you said, it makes zero sense since you both live in the same house.
Hi, Lorri!
It’s definitely upsetting since it wasn’t like that to start with. The sudden change is just crazy.
What part of pregnancy surprised you the most?
For my first pregnancy, I didn’t know what to expect at all. I wasn’t prepared for how attached I was going to get immediately and I definitely wasn’t prepared for all the symptoms. For my second pregnancy, I was surprised at just how different the experience was going to be. I was rarely sick for my daughter…nauseous a few times, but nothing really unbearable. My son on the other hand? I was sick all 38 weeks! He kicked my butt! Other than that. I gotta say that the biggest surprise was gender…we waited until birth for both babies too!
Did you purchase a ton of maternity clothing?
Not really. I had bought a few dresses and jeans, since I teach and I needed something work appropriate. I did wear A LOT of leggings though. My girlfriends and I overlapped our pregnancies too and we swapped clothes with one another to help cut the costs.
What things did you miss most while being pregnant?
My first time. I missed pumpkin beer. I was due in December and I was working part time at a restaurant in addition to teaching. Right at the end of my waitresses life, they brought out the pumpkin beer with the cinnamon sugar rims and I couldn’t wait to be able to drink one again! For my second pregnancy, I just missed the times when I didn’t feel like garbage. I spent too many nights sleeping on the bathroom floor (and my then 2 year old used to stay with me on that floor…I don’t deserve her!) I didn’t deprive myself as much during that pregnancy though. I would still get subway sandwiches, but I would ask them to toast the meat twice for example.
BONUS: What do I miss most about BEING pregnant?
Movement. I miss watching and feeling my babies move around in my belly all day. I miss putting my hand over my tummy and feeling little pokes and jabs from a foot or an elbow. My son used to stick his entire butt into my left side and it would look so ridiculous. I still go back and watch videos of my wiggly babies. Take all the videos!
Hi, Kaitlyn!
I love that pregnancy just brings you so many new surprises you can’t prepare for! Love hearing that you didn’t find out the gender. I think it makes it so exciting at birth!!
That is smart swapping maternity clothing!
That is so sweet of your little girl! I bet she’s such a big help with your son!!
That happens to me right now too! I can’t stop taking little videos of them poking out of my stomach! It’s the best feeling, even when I can’t sleep at night because they’re doing flips inside there! lol
So glad to hear your glucose test went well! I enjoyed the orange flavored drink too. They called me a week later after saying no news was good news and told me I was just out of range and had to do the 3 hour test. It was definitely brutal but I passed!!
I loved your outlook on weight gain during and after baby. I had my son the week of COVID shut downs almost two years ago. Being a new mom and coming home from the hospital to the world on lockdown took a toll on me.. I’m trying to get back to exercising more.
I wish you the best of luck in your last few weeks! As you said they really do fly!
Thank you, Katie!
Gosh. I wish there was a way to make it easier to pass the glucose test. SO MANY people have to take the 3-hour one just to find out that they are complaining GD free.
I can’t imagine what it felt like during the peak of covid and having a baby!
About toxoplasmosis- maybe ask your doctor about a titre test? It tests if you have antibodies from past exposure. Once you have had it, it’s no longer a concern.
That’s interesting!
This was a cute post! I know I’ve said it before but you and Kyle are going to make amazing parents. Also 100% agree with the COVID rules – there doesn’t seem to be logic behind many of the regulations. Have you ever written a post on hot yoga? I’ve never tried it but am very interested! I’m looking for a gentler form of strength training and am hoping hot yoga could do that, and give me a good stretch.
Hi, Shelby!
Thanks so much! 😊
I haven’t written any posts on hot yoga, but would mention them in my recap blogs. Hot yoga is amazing if you can handle the heat for a while! I also love that you can go at your own pace. If the class is doing something that’s a bit complicated, you can make it your own. No one ever judges you since everyone is in their own minds! You should totally try it! I feel like it made my walks better since my muscles were warm and stretched!
Hi! Just curious why to not use that face cream after shower? Thanks!
For some reason, that face cream is fine when my pores are not open, but when I got out of the shower and used it, my face was ON FIRE and so red. The Burts Bees cream is fine after the shower though. It may not happen for everyone, but just wanted to throw out a warning.
Hello, Taralynn
Thank you for mentioning the part about including doulas. I’ve been a labor and delivery nurse for about six years, and you wouldn’t believe the number of doulas that think they are the doctors. One doula tried to tell our doctor that he was doing a few things wrong. Some great ones keep their composure and stay in their role, but they do get in the way at times, and it can be frustrating. You don’t need that many chefs in the kitchen! It only takes about a week to get certified to become a doula in some states.
I think you and Kyle will be wonderful parents and I can’t wait to follow this new chapter.
Oh wow! I can see how that would be incredibly frustrating for you all!
Taralynn, you look amazing and beautiful! You may not feel it, but you look great! I gained about 40-45 lbs when I had my daughter. You are so right….the body gains what it needs. I had friends who gained 20 lbs and others close to 75 lbs.
I feel awful for all the mothers who cannot have their partner at the appointments with them. Makes no sense to me at all. It’s such a special time for a couple and no one should miss out on that.
I didn’t buy too many maternity things. I actually had a couple friends that I was able to borrow a few of their things to get me through too.
I think the thing I missed most about being pregnant is that you never felt alone because the baby was always with you.
Much love and good vibes for the remainder of your pregnancy!
Thank you, Pamela!!
It’s crazy what the body does, and it’s pretty beautiful.
That’s good you were able to borrow some clothes! I ended up going to Goodwill yesterday and buying a ton of oversized t-shirts to wear around the house! Maternity clothing is either so ugly or SO EXPENSIVE!!
That is the cutest thing. I never really thought about that but it’s so true, and all the wiggles remind you!
What part of pregnancy surprised you the most?
You hear so many horror stories about pregnancy so I wasn’t expecting to really (and I mean REALLY) enjoy it. I was one of the lucky ones who didn’t feel any nausea and I definitely had the glow. I think the bigger surprise was that my second pregnancy has been the opposite lol
Did you purchase a ton of maternity clothing?
Almost none the first time around. I just bought shorts and work scrubs in a bigger size which I continued to wear in the months following birth. This time I needed work clothes so I bought leggings and maternity jeans.
What things did you miss most while being pregnant? The off-limits food. And alcohol. I don’t even like to drink much but being restricted makes me want something more ha
As for books, I also recommend Moms on Call. I didn’t follow all of their recs to a T but the majority of the book was full of very practical and easy to follow advice. As with everything you’re already doing, do what you feel is right. You can follow bits of advice without doing it exactly as someone else. Momma instincts are real. Trust your gut 💙
I always hear that each pregnancy is so different! I’m kind of hoping if we’re blessed to get pregnant again later down the road, I won’t be as sick in the beginning!
You can’t go wrong with maternity leggings. They have saved me!
I hear ya on that! I hardly drink, but a frozen rose sounds really good lol
Thanks for that! & I have added it to my amazon cart! I have heard great things!
Not even pregnant (yet, hopefully soon one day…) but loved reading this post.
It kind of makes me sad we won’t potentially know the name of your little one (I always look forward to what people end up naming their babies!) but I 100% respect whatever decision you want to make to protect your privacy…You don’t have to do anything, so anything you choose to share about your life on this platform is so appreciated and you have all your readers supporting you from afar 🙂
Thank you, Patricia!
As much as I’d love to share photos, names, and all the cute moments, I just think the internet is a super dangerous place for children nowadays. The only thing I care about is protecting them and letting them decide when they want to be on the internet or share pieces of their life. Consent is huge for me. ♥️
xo xo
What part of pregnancy surprised you the most?
– How long it can take for people to look at you and KNOW you are pregnant (especially for the first baby). You spend half of the time FEELING pregnant but not looking it, lol. I had no idea.
Did you purchase a ton of maternity clothing?
– Working from home/staying away from people has made it pretty easy to be minimal – I got 4 maternity leggings, 1 maternity jeans and for shirts I bought a few but mostly I can wear flowy pre-pregnancy shirts. I am absolutely buying a cute maternity dress for my shower tho 🙂
What things did you miss most while being pregnant?
– Definitely sushi, lunch meats, SOFT CHEESE. I actually don’t miss drinking which is interesting since I’ve always drank socially multiple times a week. But honestly, for me I see how short term pregnancy is, so 9 months feels very short in the long run.
Thank you so much for posting this recap! I’m just a month or so behind you and it’s been really helpful. Especially the weight section – I feel like there are so many mixed messages out there from doctors to social media all saying different things, but I’ve been doing exactly like you. I’m gonna eat as healthy as I can and walk as often as possible, but I’m not going to worry about what the scale says. Listening to our bodies is the most important thing – obv it is working for you cause you rocked that glucose test! Fingers crossed mine goes well next week 🙂
Sounds like we purchased a lot of the same things for maternity clothes!
I love that you’re going into this with that mindset! There are things we can’t control, but the outcome is the greatest blessing of all.
Sending you all the good glucose test vibes!!!!! xo xo xo
Your sweet recaps make me miss being pregnant 😉 my pregnancies were very challenging but the magic of growing a sweet baby is unreal. I think the whole process of pregnancy was a surprise…I swear just when I thought I had a little figured out it was completely change. The best gift pregnancy gave me was grace for myself. <3 Also something funny, never having to pick up doggie waste, we usually shared this chore but once pregnant and till this day it's all on the hubby.
I did purchase a lot of maternity clothes but they were all second hand…because let's be honest maternity clothes is CRAZY expensive!!
Being able to kneel, pick up pencils and crayons (I was a Kindergarten teacher while pregnant), really any flexibility from moving up and down as quickly…this was also true when pregnant with my second and having a toddler too…my husband and I still laugh about it till this day.
You’re so right about that! It’s always changing. 😂 that’s such a funny thing! We are CRAZY about picking up poop lol. We are the type of people that just watch out the window waiting for them to go and run out to pick it up.
I can’t imagine teaching kindergarten while being pregnant (mostly during the first trimester) but way to go for getting through it. I always wonder how people do it with a toddler while being pregnant! I’ll find out one day lol
1.What part of pregnancy surprised you the most?
I really enjoyed being pregnant and felt beautiful inside and out. That was shocking to me because I thought I’d just feel like a whale…but even on those days where everything hurt, it was really amazing.
2.Did you purchase a ton of maternity clothing?
No, I sized up on shirts and dresses. Basically lived in leggings. My favorite purchases were drawstring shorts and nursing bras from target. Amazing and reasonably priced.
3. What things did you miss most while being pregnant?
Not being able to bend over or move easily towards the end. I also missed not having heartburn 24/7. But that ended the second I delivered.
Helpful tip- buy a hospital gown from amazon. Everyone said it would be a waste of money but it was so so so comfortable in the moment when everything else was uncomfortable.
I definitely feel that way!
I should check out the bras at Target! I’ve been loving the TJMAXX ones. I feel like the maternity section at target is a sad and messy place lol They should hire someone to take over that entire setup!!
I’ve been so lucky not to have heartburn or reflux! I’m assuming it’ll come soon!
That is something I’ve been considering!!!
I love your attitude toward pregnancy! i 100% agree with your thoughts on the COVID restrictions, it’s time to put moms first again which means letting them have their support person! . Anyways, I had just my husband at the labor (perhaps the silver lining of the restrictions?) and it actually was great, i just felt more able to be myself during the contractions without feeling judged. Especially because labor for most first time moms can be long (mine was 2 days) but don’t worry your husband will be so great to get you through it, it truly makes all the difference to have a supportive person by your side! We also did no visitors for a week postpartum so we could get breastfeeding down (my kid literally wanted to eat every hour for the first week! It gets better though!) but like you said it totally depends on who your support person is. I wish you a smooth 3rd trimester! It is so great that you are walking it will so help with labor!
Thanks, Lauren!
2 days of labor!? WOW! Hopefully, my walking can help with that lol but you’re a tough one!!
We will definitely limit all visitors aside from my parents to get into the swing of things! We have most of our family visiting late may/june 😊
Thank you for sharing all of this information! Have you tried physical therapy for your lower back and sciatic related pain? I’m a physical therapist and regularly seeing expecting women in the clinic to assist with the pain…and with good results! Another recommendation that I always try to educate my patients on is the benefits of seeking women’s health physical therapy before and after having the baby…it can be a game changer!
Hi, Johnna!
It’s actually not sciatic related and the pain is in my upper back. I get regular massages, but I’ll look into PT.
Thanks!
Congrats to you!