My partner and I were fortunate enough to welcome three children in just three years. Yes, it was intentional. When I say intentional, I mean that the first two were meticulously planned, considering all factors, while the third was a surprise that resulted from a night filled with chocolate and wine on a snowy Valentine’s Day, leading to some questionable choices regarding contraception. Throughout each pregnancy, I witnessed how swiftly circumstances evolved, and by swift changes, I am not simply referring to quick wardrobe adjustments, but rather my now-weakened bladder became quite the topic of discussion.
The Pregnancy Revelation
When we revealed our first pregnancy, we gathered family and friends in a softly lit space. I held a flickering candle while serene harp music played in the background. There were tears of joy and heartfelt embraces. Anticipation for the newborn was palpable. Everyone eagerly counted down the days and frequently checked in on me. I was showered with gifts, devoured baby books, and absorbed every piece of advice given.
For the second child, we made a few phone calls to close relatives and friends while simultaneously trying to keep our clumsy toddler upright as he took his first steps. The excitement was still there, and my mother and sisters organized a lovely sprinkle for me, which included a much-needed mani-pedi. To be honest, I might have dozed off during it.
By the time we announced the third child, we opted for a more casual approach, sharing the news with family and friends as we interacted with them, if we remembered. Most reactions involved sweet smiles, often accompanied by, “Oh, again?” There was no advice offered this time, nor any showers. We had already acquired everything we needed.
The Maternity Wardrobe
For my first pregnancy, I was eager to don stylish maternity wear. I had ample time to shop for all the trendy pieces I desired, bringing a couple of friends along for fashion guidance. I envisioned looking like Sarah Jessica Parker with a glorious baby bump, complete with accessories like chic heels and fashionable handbags.
By my second pregnancy, I still aimed for style when I could muster the energy, which was rarely. Around five months in, my old maternity clothes no longer fit. I ordered larger, more practical outfits online, embracing the era of velour tracksuits. Gone were the handbags and heels; it was just me in my comfy velour.
When I discovered I was expecting my third, I was still in my (larger-sized) maternity garments from the second pregnancy. The elastic in my velour outfits had given out. Looking stylish was the least of my concerns; my priorities shifted to devouring cake over the kitchen sink while trying to coax my 2-year-old and 8-month-old into synchronicity for naptime.
The Belly Touch
The first time someone touched my belly during my first pregnancy, it was pure magic—a transcendental moment. An elderly man predicted I would have a boy, an old soul destined for greatness. I soaked up the belly rubs and craved more affection.
By the time of my second pregnancy, I was less receptive to the belly touches. Occasionally, I would allow it, but mostly I was not interested. I cleverly used my 1-year-old as a shield when he was perched on my hip and would bend over my stroller pretending it needed my immediate attention to avoid unwanted contact.
For my third pregnancy, my resting bitch face became my greatest ally. I practiced it in the mirror before heading out. It worked wonders; people seemed to avoid touching my belly altogether. I can’t honestly say if I would have resisted the urge to retaliate against anyone reaching toward my belly. At the very least, I would have likely declared, “Hands off, please,” if I encountered that wise old man again.
Food Cravings
During my first pregnancy, my appetite surged after the first trimester, and while I indulged more than usual, I was cautious. I gained a fair amount of weight, but with some effort, it seemed to vanish within nine weeks.
In my second pregnancy, I aimed for moderation but often found myself mindlessly munching on chips while playing with my son on the kitchen floor. Velveeta mac and cheese became my go-to lunch, and I could down a container of chocolate milk in record time.
By the third pregnancy, I had completely surrendered to my cravings, indulging every food fantasy. If I visited a burger joint that didn’t have meat toppings, there were tears—not mine, but the unfortunate employee’s who had to deliver the news. I even whipped up a batch of frosting and devoured the entire thing. I became a food enthusiast, dipping non-dippable items and getting my hand stuck in the peanut butter jar more than once. I’m fairly certain the “For ages 12 and younger” sign near the free cookies in our local grocery store is my doing.
Baby Movements
Halfway through my first pregnancy, I experienced the delightful sensation of the first kicks, which felt like gentle butterfly kisses. I cherished every flutter and was enchanted by the rhythmic hiccups that brought me to tears.
During the second pregnancy, I felt the kicks earlier and they were far more intense. In those final weeks, I often received a swift kick to the ribs at dinnertime, and I could sometimes even see a foot or hand outline pushing against my skin. It was both captivating and uncomfortable.
By the time I reached my third pregnancy, my bladder became a playground, and my ribs served as a monkey bar for the little one. I felt like I had been bitten from the inside more than once.
Although each pregnancy brought about different experiences, the one constant was the immense joy I felt once they concluded. The squishy love fest that I eagerly anticipated with each baby was worth every kick, wardrobe change, and unwanted belly rub. Nowadays, after dropping off all three kids at school, I often return home, slip into my velour jumpsuit, and indulge in some frosting—no pregnancy required.
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In summary, the journey through each pregnancy was marked by rapid changes, evolving priorities, and unique experiences, but the joy of welcoming new life remained a constant source of happiness.
Keyphrase: Pregnancy Transformation
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