31 weeks

It really is quite amazing how two pregnancies can differ so much. And maybe it's not really that they're that different, but more of how life is different each time around. With Avery, we had nothing but time and energy to put forth in reading baby books, decorating, having "what if" conversations, attending baby showers, and marking things off our "to do" and "to buy" lists. Second time around is a completely different ballgame.

Yes, I love being pregnant. I love feeling that baby move inside me and feeling as if we share a secret. I love the anticipation of wondering what she will look like and getting sneak peaks on each ultrasound. But life with a 2 year old puts a unique spin on all of it. I still love it all, but now I love it while I'm tired, sore, worn out, and growing by the day. Those are the things I notice more now. How very tired I really am or how difficult it is to snuggle or lift Avery with a belly. With only about 8 weeks left, we are just now completing the girls' rooms and have yet to start on other projects. It's just different, all of it. When pregnant the first time, it seemed as if time stood still and I couldn't have that baby fast enough. Now, I could easily go for a couple more weeks to accomplish a few things. I've heard this is all typical and to be expected but at times I'm wondering how hard all of this is really going to hit once baby arrives. Avery is especially quite "delicate" these days. She knows. She knows something big is about to happen and in turn she's glued herself to my hip. It might take some time, but I know she'll be fine and I'm excited to see how our 2 girls grow up together. 2 girls. Huh. Still haven't fully wrapped my head around that one.

So I've just completed 31 weeks and have about 8 or so left to go. This baby is still breech! The doctor says she could still flip but I'm starting to have my doubts. If not, it's a c-section for me which I am not thrilled about for obvious reasons. I am down to dr visits every 2 weeks now and will most likely need another ultrasound to determine the baby's position. I'm starting to become very sore and uncomfortable, especially in my hips. I have added discomfort because this baby is using my pelvis as a trampoline to push off of. On the plus side, I haven't gained (so far) nearly the weight I did with Avery. And my employer is being very generous and granting me a 12-week maternity leave. I'm excited that this falls over Thanksgiving and Christmas. We will be celebrating Christmas at home this year....which means that we get to buy a REAL tree. It's the little things!