Thoughts

You may have noticed that I didn't post a lot for about six weeks or so. I just didn't really feel like it.

People say that the second trimester is like the "honeymoon phase." You get your energy back, and you're not comically rotund yet. It's the time to enjoy pregnancy and blah blah blah.

I have to say that that isn't really the second trimester I had.

I did get some energy back. Staying up past 7:30 is awesome! But then I was put on pelvic rest. So not so honeymoon like in that regard. And I couldn't exercise like I planned, which was a bummer. And apparently my baby grows in spurts, even in utero. Around 24ish weeks, all of a sudden EVERYONE was telling me how HUGE I was. It started with that lady in my sock class. Then we went home for baby showers with our families and again people just kept commenting on how large I was. And we came back to Bloomington and it just kept on and on and on...

"You're sure you're only having one baby?"

"You're not due until February?!?!? You look like you're due much sooner than that."

"But you're so big."

Seriously, these are things you should not say to a pregnant lady.

And it was just so bad because it was a seemingly never ending litany from all kinds of people. And it coincided with me starting to feel huge. So it was sort of depressing.

And it ended about when my second trimester ended (around 29ish weeks).

But honestly, I don't really care that much about being huge. I have absolute faith in my body. In fact, I'm proud of it. Yes, I have stretch marks. Yes, I feel rather large. But I'm growing a person. A whole 'nother life. And it's amazing. And if my body has to gain 60 pounds to do it, whatever. (Although for the record, I'm on track to gain about 35 pounds, which is on the higher side of average.)

Anyway, besides the rudeness/insensitivity of others, I just didn't feel like the second trimester was all everyone cracked it up to be. But, I am enjoying the third trimester so far. I feel like I have more energy, or at least am more focused in my energies. I do get tired more easily, but I'm adjusting to that. My hips hurt (seriously my biggest pregnancy complaint thus far) and it's hard to put my shoes on, but I just feel so much better. I'm really excited to meet our little one. I'm just like... happy. I feel like I've gotten my glow back. And I'm looking forward to the rest of this pregnancy.

I'm glad I've regained my perspective and can enjoy this process again. Because I really love this little dude, even though he's mostly kicks and wiggles right now. And he deserves a happy mama.

Braxton Hicks

So I went home early today because I think I was having some Braxton Hicks contractions. They didn't last very long and they weren't painful, just uncomfortable. Kind of like when you're getting ready to start your period. Or really need to go #2. My boss is out of town and I had done all my important experiments for the week, so I figured I was safe to just rest at home. I think yesterday's uber long, busy, tiring day contributed to it. I was really thirsty and have read that lack of hydration can impact these things.

Anyway, I don't really think it was a big deal or anything and I'm happy to have a day of rest. Especially since I think I'm entering the nesting phase. I just really want the house clean and to wash all the baby stuff. I've already organized his closet (and rearranged our linen closet to make that possible).

Nine more weeks. Single digits. It's getting real.

Hymns

Lately I've found myself singing hymns to the baby. I know most people sing lullabies to babies, but for some reason I just find myself singing hymns. I really think this kid may grow up to be a pastor. He loves being in church and inspires me to sing hymns. Anyway...

The one I find myself singing the most is Peace like a River. I hope we find it as calming when he comes out.

Doctor

We had another doctor's appointment this morning. Everything is still looking good. Baby Madren is head down. And apparently not a giant. (I asked.) And Dr. Labban told me I can get my dTaP vaccine at the hospital after I give birth, so that will be taken care of.

shoes

Seth and I visited Once Upon A Child for the first time ever today. That place is amazing! I have the feeling I'll be spending a lot more time and money there.

But for today, we walked out six dollars poorer and two awesomely cute pairs of shoes richer!

Bump Watch 30 weeks

How far along: 30 weeks
Baby is the size of a: head of cabbage (~3 pounds and ~15.7 inches)
News: He's learned how to do jumping jacks! I got a pretty good kick to the ribs yesterday.

Bump Watch 29 Weeks

How far along: 29 weeks
Baby is the size of a: butternut squash (~2.5 pounds and ~15 inches)
News: I ate some chocolate!