Every time someone spots my baby bump, they eagerly ask about my due date and excitedly proclaim, “You must be thrilled!” To be honest, I’m not. Seven months into my third pregnancy, my excitement isn’t soaring. Sure, I’m grateful for this little one on the way, and I appreciate the love and support from my family and friends. There are indeed sparkling moments, but after a six-year break from pregnancy, I’m acutely aware that this is the calm before the storm. The sleepless nights are looming, and that’s why I’m not jumping for joy.
1. Been There, Done That
The first pregnancy was exhilarating. The second was a mix of shock and anxiety. Navigating life with two toddlers was not part of my game plan. Now, with kids aged 6 and 7, I feel like I’ve got a handle on things. They’re mostly self-sufficient—walking, talking, and even making their own breakfast, which allows me to sneak in a nap when I need it. So, honestly, why did I think bringing home a newborn would be enjoyable?
2. The Clutter Concern
Babies require a lot of gear, but it’s actually the people who create the clutter. I appreciate the offers of baby items, but after four years of relative simplicity, I find the thought of baby gear overwhelming. I’ve come to realize that while I do need some essentials, I prefer them to be minimal. Right now, they’re just taking up space in the guest room, and I’m still trying to maintain an illusion of normalcy.
3. Birth Plan Overload
I’m really not interested in discussing my birth plan, midwife, or diaper choices. There are endless opinions about what the best approach is, and frankly, I’d rather not hear them. I’m confident in my choices based on my previous experiences and research. If you’re not invited into the delivery room, your input is unnecessary, thank you very much.
4. The Social Media Challenge
Let’s be real—social media can be exhausting. We briefly considered keeping this pregnancy off Facebook, but ultimately, I knew someone would mention it. Now, I feel like every pregnancy and gender reveal is a competition for creativity. I’m just not into elaborate announcements. When we shared our news at 20 weeks, the reactions were mostly just “Wow,” and that was perfect for me.
5. The Long Wait
With my first two pregnancies, I found out around 10 weeks in, but this time it was closer to five weeks. Let me tell you, those remaining 35 weeks can feel endless. Yes, we’re on the downhill slope, but each week seems to drag as I count down to when I can no longer say, “I have plenty of time,” when asked if I’m ready. What am I even preparing for? The baby will arrive when it’s ready, and honestly, I still don’t have a car seat because I keep telling myself I have time.
I know this little one will be incredible, and witnessing the joy on my older kids’ faces when they meet their new sibling will be heartwarming. The support I receive from my community, which stretches across the globe, is invaluable on tough days. So while I may not feel excitement now, I anticipate that it will come soon enough.
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Summary:
The author shares her mixed feelings about expecting her third child, highlighting her experience with previous pregnancies, the clutter of baby items, the overload of birth plan discussions, the pressures of social media, and the long wait until the baby arrives. Ultimately, she recognizes the joy that awaits her and her family.