When I found out I was pregnant in May, it was quite a surprise. Well, sort of, because I was there when it happened. I can’t believe I’m already 18 weeks pregnant. Time is flying! Just like most married couples we had planned to get pregnant by next month. However, when we make plans, God laughs and makes his own.
BEST TIME TO BE PREGNANT
Thank the Lord because I couldn’t think of a better time to be pregnant. To be clear, there is no perfect time to get pregnant. You’ll never be financially prepared, you’re never ready (yeah, even if you already have a kid) and your timing is never “on.” It’s one of those life instances that happen and hopefully you have a solid support system for an inevitable rise of humanness.
I’m so happy that my first trimester was in the summer and that I’ll be in my third trimester come holiday time. With a baby due in January, I have enough time to “get back to myself” (whatever that means) by the summer. Sure, I’m excited to be a mom for a second time, but I’m also excited to have my body back to myself.
WHAT I’VE BEEN CRAVING
Thankfully, I haven’t had the urge for food or snacks that are sweet. The occasional cherry Jolly Rancher quenches my sweet tooth. On the other hand I could eat thin crust pepperoni pizza daily (I don’t) and a cup of ginger ale subsides my very minimal yet apparent nausea. (It’s more the feeling than anything. I haven’t had any morning sickness with throwing up or anything like that. I didn’t have morning sickness during my first pregnancy either.)
MY LITTLE KICKER
I started feeling kicks about 2 weeks ago, which is always so special. It creates an instant connection with me and baby (who we find out is a boy or girl in 2 weeks).
DISCOURAGING COMMENTS
I’ve had quite a few comments – from other women, who are mothers at that – who have commented about my bump with comments like “wow, how many months are you? You’re so big,” or even “are you sure there’s only one in there?” – which no matter how confident I am have hurt my feelings. As someone who discovered they had uterine fibroids 5 years ago after a miscarriage, maybe I’m super sensitive. (I currently have 4 fibroids.)
However, I think it’s mind boggling that anybody – especially another woman who has children – would have the audacity to tell you that you look “7 months” or inquire “why are you so big?” It’s wildly insensitive and hurtful no matter how you mean it.
I’ve conditioned myself to move past the negative comments. Allowing myself to get excited about making Hubs a father again. Excited to make Maizah a big sister and bring another member to our family.
FAMILY, WORK & TRAVEL
Work is hectic as ever, but I’ve given myself permission to work hard and rest hard when I feel like I’m tired. I love my business and the opportunities that come my way, so if I feel like I can do something I will. If I need the rest, I take it too. I’ve made the decision to be committed to balance – or the attempt of it anyways.
I’m doing a little bit more travel for work the next couple of weeks and looking forward to it. Once third trimester hits, I’m going to sit still as much as I can as I’ll be much bigger and the fatigue will more than likely return. Taking advantage of the energy present while I have it.
Excited to share my pregnancy experience with you guys week to week. It’s just a little way to share a little bit more about me with you all.
Congratulations again, Mattie! People can be insensitive no matter the situation on purpose or not. But I would’ve thought that thinking would be a requirement because you are super sensitive at this time. Like you said it’s just best to take note and let it roll off your back. Wishing well throughout your pregnancy.
The “because I was there when it happened” part made me legit laugh out loud! Thanks for sharing
People play too much. I thought that you were further along and that you were actually quite small. You look great and I don’t understand why people are making comments. The most important thing is a healthy baby!
This is such a beautiful moment! It makes me reminisce on my pregnancy a couple years ago. I was filled with so many emotions (happiness, excitement, anxiety, sadness, etc). But I couldn’t wait to meet my little man! I’m so excited for you and your family and I wish you well! By the way, you are beautiful! Pregnancy looks great on you!
Love this Post! I’m excited to find out what you all are having too❤
Congratulations
Hey Mattie! I’m so happy for you and the fam! I honestly wish people took the time to hear what they are actually saying. Whether they mean well or not, at the end of the day, it’s really none of your business. Just be happy for the person and move on, whether they’re a public figure or not. Anyway, I pray that you’ll have the strength to ignore – and if not, to make it through the negativity and deliver a healthy baby.
Hey Mattie,
First time commenting. Please don’t let people’s comments get to you. You have life inside of you, and that’s all that matters. Take care of yourself and your growing baby and your family. All the best to you.
Thanks for sharing that post, Mattie! I was soo big when I was pregnant w/my son Christian too and people would always tell me that. I laughed b/c I thought I was all belly but it was BIG! Lol! He ended up being a very healthy 9 lbs – born emergency c-section b/c I had my fibroids removed one year prior. Enjoy your pregnancy, girl, you are stunning AND doing your thing! We love you and value all that you do for us! Thank you, Mattie JAMES! -db xoxo