It’s been quite the journey these past few weeks, filled with ups and downs that have left me feeling every emotion under the sun. It’s been a roller coaster of emotions and physical changes since my last post. As I journey through weeks 22 to 25 of my pregnancy, every moment feels like a whirlwind of sensations, thoughts, and reflections. As I sit down to share my raw and unfiltered thoughts with you, I can’t help but feel grateful for this platform where I can openly express the challenges and joys of pregnancy and motherhood.
Week 22
Week 22 hit me like a ton of bricks. It was one of those weeks where time seemed to stand still, and every day felt like an eternity. I was plagued with sickness and misery, struggling to find relief even for a moment. It was a stark reminder that pregnancy is not always a smooth ride, but rather a rollercoaster of unpredictable twists and turns.
However, week 22 also marked a turning point as Baby Boy decided to kick up a storm in my belly. What started as flutters around week 12 finally escalated into thumps and “gas bubbles” that left me feeling overwhelmed. I’ll admit, feeling those kicks wasn’t the magical experience I had envisioned. Instead, it brought a wave of discomfort that I struggled to navigate.
Week 23
Fortunately, week 23 brought some much-needed relief. Despite the occasional discomfort, I found solace in feeling the baby’s gentle movements, a reassuring reminder of the miracle growing inside me. It was a week of quiet gratitude and reflection, a welcome respite from the chaos of the previous week. I couldn’t ignore the undeniable signs of my growing belly. Every time I put on a shirt, it felt shorter than before, signaling yet another growth spurt. Despite the physical changes, this week sailed by smoothly, offering a brief respite from the challenges of pregnancy.
Week 24
Week 24 was a week of extremes. It was a week I won’t soon forget. It started off promising, but halfway through, I found myself in the depths of misery. The pain, discomfort, and sleepless nights became unbearable. I found myself battling through two days of excruciating discomfort, barely able to muster the strength to move from the couch to the kitchen.
In those moments of helplessness, all I wanted was someone to hold my hand and tell me it would be okay. As my fiance worked tirelessly to provide for our growing family, I found myself grappling with the harsh reality of being alone in my pain. In the midst of my suffering, I couldn’t help but reflect on my past lack of empathy towards pregnant women. It was a humbling moment of realization, one that left me craving the support and understanding I had failed to offer others. It made me more determined to do a better job supporting my fellow pregnant mothers, now and in the future.
Amidst the struggles of Week 24, there was a glimmer of light. A moment so pure and magical that it overshadowed the darkest of days. For the first time, my fiance was able to feel our baby move, a fleeting yet profound connection that left us both in awe of the life we had created together. It was a moment of joy and wonder that served as a beacon of hope in the midst of my suffering. He ended up being able to fell our son move several days that week. Witnessing his excitement reminded me of the beauty amidst the chaos.
Week 25
I entered Week 25 with me feeling somewhat normal – for whatever normal can be during pregnancy. On 25 + 1 came the Superbowl, a night filled with excitement both on and off the field. As the game unfolded, Baby Boy’s energy matched the intensity of the game. His lively movements brought a sense of connection, reminding me that even in the toughest moments, there’s a spark of joy waiting to be discovered.
Now, at 25 weeks and counting, I embrace each day with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension. The discomfort comes and goes, but with each kick and squirm, I’m reminded of the miracle growing inside me.
Final Thoughts
To all the expectant mothers out there, know that you’re not alone in this journey. Embrace the highs and lows, and never hesitate to seek support when you need it most. To those who have supported me along the way, I am forever grateful for your love and understanding.
