My partner and I were fortunate to welcome three children in just three years. While the first two were carefully planned, the arrival of our third was a spontaneous decision made one snowy Valentine’s evening, fueled by a delightful mix of chocolate and wine. With each pregnancy, I observed significant changes—not just in my body but in the overall experience of motherhood.
The Pregnancy Announcement
When we shared the news of our first pregnancy, we gathered our loved ones in a softly lit room, where I held a glowing candle, and soft harp music played in the background. The atmosphere was filled with tears of joy and heartfelt embraces as anticipation for the baby grew. Friends and family marked their calendars and frequently checked in on my progress, showering me with gifts and advice.
For the second child, we shared the news with close relatives and friends while simultaneously juggling our newly walking toddler. My mother and sisters organized a lovely sprinkle, which I vaguely remember because I may have dozed off during the pampering session.
By the time we announced our third pregnancy, we opted for a more casual approach, telling family and friends as we saw them—if we remembered to do so. Responses were generally sweet, but often accompanied by a surprised expression and a remark like, “Oh, again?” There were no showers this time; we already possessed all the essentials.
The Maternity Wardrobe
During my first pregnancy, I eagerly anticipated the opportunity to wear stylish maternity clothes. I took time to shop, bringing along friends for fashion advice, aiming to look like a maternity model with a chic ensemble.
As I entered my second pregnancy, I still wished to maintain some style when I could muster the energy, but comfort quickly took precedence. By five months, my original maternity clothes no longer fit, so I ordered larger sizes that were practical for my new lifestyle as a stay-at-home mom. Velour tracksuits became my go-to, replacing the stylish outfits I had once craved.
By the time my third pregnancy rolled around, I found myself wearing the same oversized maternity clothes from the previous term. I had little interest in looking fashionable; my priorities were eating cake and managing the nap schedules of my two young children.
The Belly Touch
The first time someone touched my belly during my initial pregnancy, it felt magical—almost spiritual. An elderly gentleman predicted I would have a boy, and I embraced the belly rubs wholeheartedly.
During my second pregnancy, I was less enthusiastic about unsolicited touches. I often used my toddler as a shield, bending over his stroller to distract those who might reach for my belly.
By my third pregnancy, my expression of disinterest served as a deterrent. I perfected my resting bitch face to ward off unwelcome pokes at my pregnant belly, which undoubtedly helped me avoid unwanted interactions.
Eating Habits
In my first trimester, I experienced a healthy appetite but kept indulgences in check, resulting in manageable weight gain that I quickly shed post-delivery.
By my second pregnancy, I found myself sneaking snacks while playing on the floor with my toddler. Comfort foods like mac and cheese and copious amounts of chocolate milk became staples in my diet.
By the time my third baby was on the way, I had completely surrendered to my cravings. I indulged in every food fantasy, becoming quite creative with my combinations. I even remember feeling distraught when a burger joint lacked meat toppings. My culinary escapades reached a new level of indulgence.
Baby Kicks
Halfway through my first pregnancy, I experienced the gentle flutters of my baby’s kicks, which felt soothing and serene. My second pregnancy brought earlier and more pronounced movements, often catching me off guard with rib kicks during meals.
In contrast, my third pregnancy was marked by vigorous movements that left me questioning my sanity. My bladder became a playground, and I often felt like I was hosting a dance party in my belly.
Despite the myriad of changes across my pregnancies, one constant remained: the joy that followed each birth. The blissful connection with my newborns made every uncomfortable moment worthwhile. Now, as I drop my kids off at school, I often slip back into my velour tracksuit and treat myself to frosting, no pregnancy required.
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In summary, each pregnancy journey brings unique experiences and challenges, yet the end result is an immeasurable joy that transforms everything.