Navigating through three pregnancies within a span of three years is no small feat, and for my partner and me, it was a journey filled with both joy and surprises. While the first two were meticulously planned, the third came about rather unexpectedly during a cozy Valentine’s night fueled by chocolate and a bit too much wine. As I reflected on each pregnancy, I was struck by how swiftly circumstances evolved—not just in terms of physical changes, but also in how I approached the entire experience.
Pregnancy Announcements
When I revealed my first pregnancy, I orchestrated a beautiful gathering in a softly lit room. The ambiance was serene, and the joy was palpable. Friends and family embraced me with tearful congratulations, eagerly counting down the days until the arrival of the little one. I was showered with gifts and overwhelmed with advice, reading every parenting book available.
Fast forward to the announcement of my second child, and the scene was much more casual. Between chasing after my newly walking toddler and making calls to close family, the excitement was still there, but the fanfare had faded somewhat. My mother and sisters organized a lovely sprinkle, which included a much-appreciated mani-pedi.
By the time I was pregnant with my third, we opted for a low-key approach to sharing the news. As we crossed paths with friends and family, we mentioned it nonchalantly. Their reactions often included a sweet smile followed by, “Oh, again?” Advice was sparse, and no showers were planned; we already had everything we needed.
Maternity Wear
In the early stages of my first pregnancy, I was thrilled to adorn myself in fashionable maternity attire. I took time to shop for chic pieces, dreaming of looking like a glamorous celebrity with a baby bump. Accessories were a must, and I felt like a queen.
By the second pregnancy, my desire for style was eclipsed by exhaustion. I found myself in practical, comfortable clothing—think velour tracksuits. My once stylish wardrobe was replaced, and I must admit, I often opted for whatever was easy to put on.
When the third pregnancy came around, I was still wearing the same oversized maternity clothes from my previous journey. The elastic was stretched, and my priorities had shifted. I focused more on quick snacks and napping than on fashion.
The Belly Touch
The first time someone reached out to touch my belly during my first pregnancy, it felt magical. I cherished those moments of connection. However, by the second pregnancy, I was more guarded. I would often use my toddler as a shield or bend down to tie shoes, avoiding unwanted touches.
During my third pregnancy, I developed a serious case of “resting bitch face,” which served me well in deflecting belly rubs. I was not in the mood for unsolicited advice or touches, and it kept most at bay.
Eating Habits
In my first pregnancy, I was mindful of my cravings and generally maintained a balanced diet. I gained weight, but with some effort, it came off relatively quickly.
By the second pregnancy, control slipped. I found myself indulging in bags of chips while playing with my son and enjoying comfort foods like macaroni and cheese.
When I was pregnant with my third, all bets were off. I dove into every craving without restraint, making frosting and indulging in anything that sounded good. I even became notorious for my wild snacking habits, often getting my hand stuck in jars of peanut butter.
Baby Kicks
Halfway through my first pregnancy, I experienced the gentle flutters of my baby kicking. It was a delightful sensation that I looked forward to.
With my second, those kicks came earlier and with more intensity, often leaving me breathless during meals.
By the time I was pregnant with my third, my body felt like a playground for my baby. The kicks were relentless, and I often wished for a bit of peace.
Despite the rapid changes throughout my pregnancies, the joy of welcoming each child made every experience worthwhile. The love that envelops you after those nine months is a celebration unlike any other. Now, as a mother of three, I sometimes indulge in a cozy velour jumpsuit and treat myself to frosting, pregnancy or not.
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Summary: The journey through three pregnancies reveals a stark contrast in experiences from the first to the third. What begins as a beautifully orchestrated announcement transforms into a casual mention over time. Maternity wear evolves from stylish to comfortable, and the approach to belly touches shifts as well. Eating habits change dramatically, and the joy of kicks takes on new meanings with each child. Ultimately, the love that comes with motherhood makes the challenges worthwhile.