The Perks of Pregnancy

So, even though I haven't exactly enjoyed being pregnant, I thought I would write about all the good things that happen during pregnancy. In a way, it is a form of self brainwashing to tell myself it is okay to still be pregnant and to allow this baby to stay inside of me as much as she wants.  So, I will get down to my list.

Also, yesterday we went to Unity Village for a walk around the grounds. For New Years Eve, it was pretty darn nice (notice Henry is not even wearing a coat).  Enjoy the pictures.

So...

1. Being pregnant during the holidays has been great. I never thought twice about eating a cookie or taking seconds. Everything, especially sweets, has tasted delicious.  Even though I feel like I'm eating a ton, my weight gain has been quite average. This encourages me to keep eating. Can't help but like this.

2. Quality time with Henry. Every day I don't have this baby, I think about Henry. What can we do with him today? This is the last time we are a family of 3. I think he knows that it is a special time. The picture above is the labyrinth at Unity Village. He loved it. This was taken right before he made a huge jump.

3. Baby movements. I remember when I was pregnant with Henry, the best part were his little kicks. It was like a secret between us that no one knew. I remember feeling him in the middle of rounds during residency. Just the thought that inside me something great with happening.  With this baby, she is a lot more active.  Sometimes it can get a little extreme, but it is still a nice reminder that she is there and healthy.

4. Altruism.  I love my job and my patients. For this last month or so, I seem to have the same conversation with every family. Yes, I am pregnant, due January 3rd and what not. That is all fine, but the best part is to see how excited they are for me and how happy it seems to make them.  I seem to leave every room feeling a bit more supported than before. I guess that is what being a part of a community is. Of course, this altruism is even more with my friends and family, and while this is wonderful, it is expected (but still very much appreciated).  I just didn't expect it from patients and families.

5. Eating out. I love eating out, but try to temper it due to the cost and health reasons. When I am pregnant, hungry and tired, it is just easier to eat out. This has let me eat some amazing food without feeling too guilty. Mmmmm.

6.Quiet time. Since being pregnant, my fatigue is at an all time high. This causes me to take a lot of breaks and relax.  Before this I always wanted to be doing something productive. Now I am forced to sit down, breath and just be.  This is good reflection time and has also come in handy for knitting projects. I'm sure this will be the first thing to go once the baby comes.

Well, that's all I can think of now. Really, not a bad list. I will miss all of these things once the baby comes, but in their place will be even more glorious things.  Happy New Year!