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My Second First Trimester

Kinda weird typing that out, but well I’m excited to say our first trimester with our second babe has come and gone.

Comparing it to Hudson, I thought it dragged on – we found out were pregnant early again, so to wait 3+ months after two miscarriages felt like an eternity. It truly was the longest and hardest trimester – trying to hide it and just HOPING that this time it was going to all work out.

Even though this pregnancy is very different than when I was pregnant with Hudson – there was one thing in common. No morning sickness, but since I broke down my symptoms and how I dealt with them the first time, I thought I would do that well, a second time…

Bloating 

Again, was the first real symptom for me. I felt like everything I ate just stuck around a bit longer and things were fitting snug sooner rather than later. I upped my water in-take and tried to eat slower so I wouldn’t eat past being full. For the most part, those two things help. And you can pop a Tums if you need too – just read the label.

Headaches

I’m truly not a huge coffee drinker, though I live with one. I love a good cup (okay, half a cup) here and there but when the temps drop and the fall drinks come out I’ve got a weakness. Fall beer is like my favorite beer ever, so I just justify a fall decaf coffee drink to scratch my fall beverage itch. Though some headaches might be caffeine related, I think the rest of the time it’s because I need 1) good sleep 2) WATER. So those two things have been critical. Plus, a Tylenol if I really need it. When I was pregnant with Hudson I stayed away if I could, but being a mom and being pregnant sometimes you need quick relief because you don’t have the time or luxury to wait it out.

Lack of Energy

A biggie! Am I right? Weekend naps were back and they were glorious. When Hudson would go down for a nap, I would, too. But to biggie back on this lack of energy bit, I was also encourage to rest. Around 10 weeks they found a subchorionic hematoma which caused spotting and turned me back into panic mode. No more yoga, bike rides, lifting heavy things – basically rest and put your feet up. And on top of that I’ve had partial placenta previa, which also encourages rest and not over doing it. It all jived with my first trimester though since I was tired a lot, but now in my second trimester and feeling like I have some energy back (no more hematoma! yay! but my placenta is still in the way a bit) so I wish I could be more active, but still I gotta wait.

Stuffy Nose

My nose always gets worse – every morning it’s stuffy and on occasion bloody. I sneeze a ton and it itches and irritates my eyes. Just like with Hudson, my nose with a mess and probably the most annoying symptom yet because there isn’t much I can do about it. Besides having tissues in every room of the house.

 

Cravings

I stopped eating a lot of dairy after Hudson was born. I just didn’t feel great after eating ice cream, or cereal or even a milkshake. So I went straight to almond milk and coconut milk desserts. But with this pregnancy I’ve been wanting Noosa yogurt (made with cow milk – either for breakfasts or snacks) and have been feeling fine! I’ll add berries, bananas and granola and it’s awesome. For my after dinner treat it’s been Oreos. Don’t ask me why – but Oreos are officially the weird craving item. Unlike with Hudson I wanted brussel sprouts and chips.

Overall, it was a stressful time that I’m glad we’re through. I love feeling him move and totally ready for the next two phases.

First Trimester

I must say this trimester came and went. Luckily for us we found out early and even though it’s extremely tough to keep it a secret until you’re absolutely ready (that’s quite possibly an understatement), it was great to know early so I could start making the necessary changes to keep me and this little one healthy. I’m on my 15th week now and feeling great!

I apparently fit in the 25% of women who don’t experience any form of morning sickness. I still count my lucky stars that the first 13 weeks were relatively normal.

I’ve read a couple posts from fellow bloggers like Mrs. Quirk and Sydney, that break down their symptoms and how to handle them, so I thought I’d share some details of my first trimester with you guys (especially since it has been secret!) below:

1. Bloating 
This was by far the change in my body that I felt the most. My digestive system was all out of whack. It was doing it’s job in digesting slowly and taking in as many nutrients as possible but I did lose the consistency I was used to. Sometimes it was really uncomfortable and you feel really large and no, it’s not the baby (yet!) it’s everything else. Which can be a little disheartening. In the end I drank a ton of water and I mentally just accepted this change. Once you do that, it doesn’t bother you as much. Also, don’t force it. Plain and simple.

2. Lack of energy
Before we even found out, I noticed that I was falling asleep more during the day. Every time we got in the car (Nick’s driving, of course) I would get so tired and pass out. I wouldn’t make it past 10pm most nights and naps on the weekends were kinda just mandatory. I still get tired randomly throughout the day, but if I’m in a situation where I can embrace it, I do. I actually love sleep, so this symptom I’ll take willingly.

3. Headaches 
Nick and I are pretty big coffee drinkers. And well, that quickly changed for me. I basically weaned myself off with a cup in the morning, to a half of a cup, to now nothing at all. But I did contribute some of my headaches to lack of caffeine. I still get them from time to time, so I drink plenty of water, wear my sunglasses (even if it’s cloudy) and rest if I can to get rid of them. I’ve heard you can take Tylenol for things like this, but if I can get it to go away naturally, I’d prefer it.

4. Tenderness 
They say you feel it up top first. It actually took a couple weeks for me, but I notice it now. It’s not everyday and it’s not extremely painful, but I notice things don’t fit just quite right. Some parts are a little sensitive to the touch, but again mentally these changes make total sense to me, so I’m rolling with it just fine. I’m definitely wearing more bras with wire support and padding. Sorry cute little lacy things that don’t do anything but look nice. I’m starting to think I need to shop for additional options.
Any suggestions?

5. Sense of Smell
I think this is on the level of super human powers. I can smell anything and everything. From gardenias being blocks away to smelling rain that hasn’t even happened yet. I was quick to tell Nick what I was smelling and when and most of the time he couldn’t join with me on the scent. I do believe it’s a super power and actually, it’s kinda cool. I did experience some stuffy nose action, which I guess is caused by hormones and that got annoying. But some days/mornings are worse than others. 
Do you guys have any other remedies for some of these? How’d you get through it? 
6. Cravings 
For those of you who know me, I have a thing for sugar. Like I loveeee sweets. But during the first part of this pregnancy, I was really craving savory. First it was brussels sprouts, now it’s beef and steak and weirdly enough sour cream and onion baked chips. I’m loving bites of cheddar cheese with fruit and I still love Noosa in the morning or cereal. I drink orange juice by the tall glass and drink lemonade when I’m out to eat, since I drink so much water at home and at work. My sister had a great idea of infusing water at home to keep it interesting, so I’ll give that a try.
I haven’t felt the need to sip some beer or wine, even coffee for that matter, but I do want a deli sandwich from time to time but absolutely resist. I’ll cave for a green tea from Panera but overall I’m aware of what to avoid and I watch it all in moderation.

Honestly, I’m ready and really excited about my second trimester. I’m eager to see this belly expand and to feel this little one. I’m also looking forward to getting some energy back – more long walks with the pups and maybe movies on the couch past 11pm.

Big things.

My Third Fourth Trimester

the postpartum phase is by far the hardest.

With every kid it’s different and it’s because you’re in a different stage of your life and each baby is unique. It’s learning all over again, it’s healing all over again, it’s sacrificing all over again.

To me pregnancy was easy, even labor wasn’t that bad when you compare it to your next 2-3 months post baby. There are a lot of things that people just don’t talk about like hormone changes, just how hard it is to breast feed and all the things you need to do to heal physically with less sleep.

This time around I had random shakes, consistent night sweats and just couldn’t get comfortable. I nursed exclusively the first two weeks to regulate my milk supply and to not over due it. But with that I wasn’t increasing my intake enough and really need to make an effort to eat and drink more to compensate for the amount of nursing.

Here we are just shy of 8 weeks postpartum and I think we’re in a better place. Hormones are a bit more regulated, I’m more aware of what and how much I’m eating and drinking, and trying to get some sleep where I can.

Postpartum is no joke. Thankfully I haven’t experienced postpartum depression and can’t imagine how other’s must feel with that in the mix. I’ve got a husband that cooks every meal and helps with shifts at night which has been a HUGE help. For mamas or new parents going through this phase it’s important to remember that it’s temporary. Your newborn is growing fast and to cherish the moments as they come.

Tips that worked for me:

  • Meal prep and have snacks ready on-hand
  • Include brewer’s yeast in oats, muffins and smoothies etc. to help milk supply
  • Snag the largest water bottle with a straw and sip sip sip!
  • Keep Ensure ready
  • Stretching when I felt stiff or started having neck/back pain
  • Supplement with formula when you need to – stress about feeding your baby doesn’t help milk supply
  • Tend to your breasts – nipple shields, better pump and self care items
  • Ask for help. This one I had to learn all over again because I’m so independent and I want to be everything and more for my little guy and I certainly don’t want to seem needy but let’s be real, no mama can do it all.

I’m constantly reminding myself how lucky I am to get to experience this all over again – Wells, is a dream and a sweet baby and even though it’s brutally hard at times, this family of mine is absolutely worth it.

shop my postpartum must-haves:

My 2nd Third Trimester

Physically:

Harder to move around for sure – getting in/out of bed, off the couch, up the stairs! It’s true, moving and maneuvering is different. I don’t think I’m waddling, but who wants to judge?

Random foot and leg cramps, which really aren’t cool.

Sleeping is tricky sometimes – I prefer my back, but I know sleeping on my left side is best. At this point I’m tossing and turning all night just to get comfortable.

Frequent stops to the bathroom! Maybe I don’t remember but I feel like I’m going a lot more than when I was pregnant with Hudson.

Will occasionally get out of breath – this kid is all sorts of up in my business. His feet, last time we checked, were 8cm long!

Got my first UTI and would never wish that on anyone.

I can still see my feet and my ankles are still ankles. No Jessica Simpson bloating over here. But I have gained more weight than when I was pregnant with Hudson. This pregnancy has been very different though so I’m just going to roll with it.

My belly button is officially FLAT and that is still the only place that really stretches.

My placenta is far enough out of the way that we can try to have a natural delivery – so good news there, too!

Emotionally:

Feeling excited and eager! We registered at the hospital and all my appointments thus far have been really good! My placenta moved which is a total relief.

I ordered two breast pumps! Hoping to go longer than 7-8 months this time, but we’ll see. Not going to add any crazy pressure on myself but I want to be ready to give it my all.

Eats:

No weird cravings, really. I noticed that I can’t sit and eat as much in a single sitting. I’m mostly in snack mode all day which for some days isn’t the best. I try to reach for fruit or granola but lately peanut butter crackers, pirate booty and fruit leather.

Hudson’s mini pancakes in the mornings have been a favorite though.

Nesting:

Is in full swing – I want to clean every nook and cranny and seriously PURGE so much stuff. We finally got the nursery furniture in his room. The new rug, camera and diaper pail arrived! So it’s all coming together nicely.

The bassinet is ready and so is the changing station down stairs. Next up – hospital bag!

 

 

 

 

My Second 2nd Trimester

Truly the easiest trimester. Once you’re in your second trimester all the “what ifs” start to subside a little, which is nice. You start showing more which is exciting and you finally get to feel the babe move. I went back and looked at my 2nd trimester post with Hudson and to my surprise these are actually pretty similar. Besides having more check-ups and being less physically active because of the partial placenta previa, I can’t complain – Here are few things about the 2nd trimester.

Physically: 

Feeling good about the weight gain and the belly! Still using Mama Bee Belly Butter everyday! Felt like these crazy hips and 5’9″ stature was helping me feel relative small.

Wishing I could do yoga, mostly for my mindset, but will be ready to pick it up again once little guy is born.

Random headaches, stuffy nose, minor back pain (typically at the end of the day) and leg cramps were occasional culprits.

The worst part was the ligament pain – crazy shooting pains around my groin that literally left me immobile. I couldn’t walk or take deep breaths. I would keep Tylenol on me at all times because I never knew when the pains would hit. Anyone else experience this?

Emotionally: 

In a really good place. Besides additional monitoring because of my placenta placement, it hasn’t been too bad to see the doctor more and get updates on how little man is growing. We saw a sonogram specialist during our 2nd trimester and had a really awesome look at our dude. He was moving all around and everything looked normal – great even! Visits like that are really nice even if my placenta is still technically in the way a bit.

I’m somewhat preparing for a c-section, even though it’s still too early to tell. I’ve never had one but I’ll do what the doctor recommends. Having Nick’s support too has been incredible.

Eats:

Still with the yogurt, fruit and sweets! Noosa coconut yogurt with the almonds and cocoa toppings are so good! Tillamook Stumptown Coffee ice cream is delicious and ordering shrimp whenever I can.

Organization: 

Finally getting a few things out that were Hudson’s! Did my first load of 0-3 month clothes and ordered a changing basket for our room. We’re working on getting Hudson new furniture so we can get the nursery furniture into the other spare room. I ordered a rug and a bought a few things on our trip to Santa Barbara for this guy’s new room. Even though it will be the same furniture I’m going to make his room look entirely different.

Overall, I’m excited for the home stretch! Finally typing this out at 32 weeks, it’s getting close and the closer we get the more ready I feel.

This babe is a big mover, so I feel him in my ribs and on my side and he’s totally making it feel like home in there. He’s 97% in height, so there’s that. 

 

Second Trimester

Starting my third trimester here in Kauai – 28 week baby bump!

Thought I’d share my second trimester thoughts since my first trimester post got a ton of views…

Physically:
Went through my first thing of Mama Bee belly butter (highly recommend it!)
I still have an innie and no stretch marks or itching yet…

Felt the “pregnancy glow” but that could be a nod to my Aveeno face products and Anastasia brow pencil 🙂

Occasionally slept with an extra pillow at night and experienced some minor lower back pain earlier on and random leg cramps.

My stuffy nose is starting to get better! I’ve been sneezing less and less. So thankful!

Maintained decent exercise – 2 days a week I went to yoga and did a ton of bike riding over the weekends with husband

Eats:
Smoothies, fruit snacks, tacos (Mexican food), tootsie rolls, cereal (shredded wheat or lucky charms), sparkling water, Mellow Mushroom pizza, sour cream & onion chips, Cheeze-its, apples with peanut butter.

Getting Organized:

Finalized our registry! Thank you myregistry.com for making it easy.

Received my breast pump through our insurance company – huge relief!

We toured our hospital and got all registered.

Ordered his crib and dresser from Pottery Barn!

Baby shower plans are in full swing and I’m really excited about it – I’ve got great friends & family. And my sweet colleagues here at Rifle are doing the custom invitation 🙂

Blog love – thank you Splendid, Preggo Leggings, joy + olivia, Robeez, Zumba Apparel, Kohl’s and Milk Snob for your support! xo

Emotionally: 
My increased love for my husband – from doing more chores, to making my favorite foods, ordering belly butter from Amazon on his iPhone right before bed so I wouldn’t run out, to the way he rests his hand on my belly to feel Hudson’s movement and for the crazy feeling that he loves me even more now… I’m completely smitten.  

A lot on my mind still: finding possible day car options, researching a pediatrician, signing us up for a birthing class and possibly a breastfeeding class.

One thing at a time. 

3rd trimester excitement  
Homestretch! 84 days but who’s counting? 
Means the holidays are just around the corner! 
Which also means cooler weather and our first wedding anniversary #love
Washing all his tiny adorable clothing 
Packing our hospital bag 
Feeling him have the hiccups 
Finishing our little man’s nursery

The past two trimesters have flown by and life doesn’t seem to have changed a bit.
Assuming this last trimester will be a little different.

What’s the best and worst things about the third trimester? 

Half Way w/ Baby G No. 3

With life and work, I haven’t gotten around to the first trimester post… (see Hudson’s and Palmer’s!)

The first trimester, especially after the rocky journey we had to get pregnant with P and then with his less than ideal pregnancy issues, the first trimester is one that is really just SO hard. So much room for error, the awkwardness of trying to hide something so big and wonderful for fear that it might not really happen. I was honestly just in tunnel vision hoping to not focus or dwell on this amazing possibility and to break into that second trimester threshold with a sense of relief.

Well, here we are almost 22 weeks and this boy is active as ever and developing and growing like a champ. He’s been just a chill as Hudson was and it’s been a pregnancy that has really just gone with the flow and I’m super grateful. I passed my glucose test with room to spare, I haven’t gained nearly the weight as expected… yet, and even though I’m considered high risk because of my age (hello, I’m the ripe old age of 36!) I’ve been feeling really great.

Knowing that we’re having another boy is also super comforting. We truly don’t need much and I’ve slowly gone through all the baby clothes that have now made it through two of our boys over the course of 7 years! I’m making a small list of things we’ll need and approaching a few brands that make this transition at home more accommodating, but other than that here’s a little break down:

Cravings:

On occasion a cold glass of root beer, hot baked potato soup and a pressed sandwich. I miss sushi and cold cut sandwiches so much!

Symptoms:

Recently I’ll get a side cramp, but besides being extra tired during the first trimester and sort of food adverse (mild nausea) symptoms have been pretty mild. Sure a stuffy nose and still a crazy sense of smell, all things that I’ve experienced before.

One thing we’re still debating on is a name… Though we have a few that are kinda sorta maybes, nothing that has come up that made us both feel like, “YES! That’s it.” So if you have a recommendation that goes well with Hudson and Palmer and might have a tie to California, New York or Florida – we’re all ears!

Here’s to the next 19 or so weeks being a breeze like the first half.

Xx

*to read about our baby journey – I get really candid here. with multiple miscarriages and loss, to those experiencing the same thing… you’re not alone.*

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