Happy Holidays

I can't believe Christmas is here. I haven't been a Grinch this year but time seems to have flown by, as it usually does. As the years pass, I find that the holiday is not so much about giving and receiving presents as it is about being with the ones I care about. Maybe it is a sign I am getting older. Or just growing up. I think those are a bit different despite first glances.

This weekend, we had our gift exchange with the in-laws. We had a great time being together, and of course, seeing the kiddos. The most surprising, yet pleasant, gift I got was from MIL. She bought me three maternity shirts. I wasn't expecting to receive anything remotely related to my current state. I assumed that everyone else felt the same way I did - cautious and reserved. Barely able to speak the "p" word, as if muttering it would jinx any goodwill we had created. It was really eye-opening for me to see that despite past history, they really were truly excited. It was just what I needed to feel more confident about the future. I could feed off of their enthusiasm and it felt good in the moment. Of course, now, I feel as if I have to live up to high expectations. What if I let everyone down? That's right - stay positive. MUST THINK POSITIVE.

Speaking of the "p" word, Sunshine is now iteration 3.7.3. (Blame my nerdy husband for this engineering influence. First 3 stands for third attempt. 7 is for seven weeks. Second 3 is for 3 days.) Every day that passes, I become more thankful. I have some newfound symptoms in my arsenal. They may be related to my rapidly growing embryo or perhaps wishful thinking. I prefer to think of them in the former:

Fatigue - my new bedtime is about 9:30pm. It is past my bedtime as I type so forgive me if I nod off or start becoming illiterate.

Nausea - comes at various times so it is a little unpredictable. Sometimes, I feel a little "off" in the morning or after I wake up from a nap. Other times, I feel crappy in the afternoon or evening after a long day. No puking as of yet but I get the "puke burps". You know, where you burp and little bit comes up in the back of your throat. Nasty, but somewhat comforting, if you get my drift.


Food craving - at the moment, I am obsessed with macaroni and cheese. Fascinated. I could eat mac and cheese for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack. I've always liked mac and cheese but for some reason, I really like it now. Even if I'm not hungry, I just want it.

Pulling sensations/twinges - not totally unlike cramps but they come and go quickly. They scare me but happen to occur in the groin area so I like to think it is just ligaments stretching to accomodate my new resident. They usually go away when I get up and walk a little.

Enlarged breasts - DH is loving this one. They are definitely fuller but they aren't as sore as I thought they'd be.

Frequent urination - have to get up 1-2 times a night to pee and a good bit during the day even if I'm not drinking a lot.

Thick waistline - can only button my "fat" pants. Have resorted to using my Bella Band daily. I know I've probably gained about 5lbs. Probably all that damn mac and cheese.

Well, I'm off to get something to eat (you guessed it!) and wrap some last minute gifts. I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas (or Happy Holidays for my non-Christian friends). For anyone traveling, I wish you safe travels. And I pray that all of your wishes come true - whatever they may be. You are all in my thoughts as always. XOXO