Thoughts on the Second Time Around

The day we found out. Right before Easter.

Last week, I hit the halfway point in my pregnancy; 20 weeks. From day one, I've been comparing this pregnancy to my first. How I look, how I feel, unusual symptoms, searching for clues about the gender and getting reassurance that everything is working as it should. For the most part, it HAS been a repeat of the past. I found out at 5 weeks, felt the morning sickness set in a couple weeks later, experienced some early migraines, and was SO INCREDIBLY TIRED. But the difference this time around was, I knew how to control the morning sickness. I ate anytime I was even close to queasy. Crackers appeared on my nightstand almost immediately. There were bad days, but it was nothing like the first time around-- when I was seasick all day. We had a few days of total laziness, where we watched more Thomas the Train videos then I care to admit, or did lots of coloring because I was too tired for anything else. But the period of time seemed to go by much faster than before. I certainly started looking pregnant earlier this time. Normal right? The good thing about being pregnant with a toddler is the distraction they provide from whatever your symptoms are. He keeps me busy, he keeps it light, and he makes the time fly by. I can hardly believe I've landed at the halfway point. Last time around my nursery was almost complete by now. I've done basically nothing for baby girl so far. Big plans, but no progress yet. I'll get to it.. the nesting instinct is coming on strong. It's been fun thinking about my little baby becoming a big brother. Bennett has been with me to every appointment. And just like the first time around, I get a thrill in hearing my baby's reassuring heartbeat. We couldn't be more excited to have a new baby again. I'm eager to experience those lazy newborn days, the breastfeeding, the tiny clothes, and this time with a little GIRL.