As I navigated through the morning traffic, my three-year-old was at it again—whining about his cravings. “I JUST WANT WAFFLES AND TACOS ALL THE TIIIIIME!” he declared. It struck me that at nearly seven months pregnant, I share more in common with my little one than ever before. Here’s why:
- Craving Food: Whether it’s pre-dinner ice cream or a secret stash of snacks, our eating habits have become a comical challenge. My toddler might drop a Cheerio from his pants, while I discover a Frito in my bra. Sometimes the thought of a banana is repulsive, while other times, I can’t resist an entire carton of strawberries. Our desires can be intense and unpredictable—cross us, and you might find some forks flying.
- Clothes That Never Fit: The ever-changing body shapes we endure lead to ill-fitting clothes. My child has outgrown his new shoes in mere weeks, just as I have transitioned from my “I’m-just-bloated” pants to full-on third-trimester attire. You’re telling me that favorite shirt of yours is now too small? I feel you—my hidden skinny jeans are a reminder of my pre-pregnancy self, but they might just be a distant memory.
- Frequent Bathroom Breaks: Both toddlers and pregnant women are well-acquainted with the struggle of holding it in. We often find ourselves in embarrassing situations, whether it’s during a long church service or a bumpy car ride. With bladders that barely hold up, spontaneous bathroom trips are a common occurrence.
- The Gas Situation: When an unpleasant odor wafts through the air, everyone’s eyes inevitably dart between the toddler and the visibly pregnant woman. It’s a shared indignation—don’t blame us! We both know the source of the smell might just be that old guy in the corner!
- Memory Lapses: Keeping track of names and places can be a challenge. My child’s endless questions, “Where’s my firetruck?” or “What’s for dinner?” parallel my struggles to recall essential details like my pediatrician’s name or my own date of birth. During chaotic moments, we might need a moment or twenty to remember what’s happening, and hey, juice helps!
- Intense Mood Swings: The emotional rollercoaster we ride is quite similar. One moment my toddler is in a fit of rage over something trivial, and the next, we’re in fits of laughter over a silly joke. The frustration of spilled milk and sticky floors is quickly replaced by joy at bedtime giggles, proving that our feelings—though bewildering—are very real.
So, the next time my son exclaims, “I don’t love you and your carrots!” I’ll try to connect with his outburst and understand his complex emotions. Together, we can share a plate of waffles and tacos while enjoying some booger jokes until our pants can’t take it anymore. And if you’re considering your own journey into parenthood, check out our guide on home insemination kits for more insights. You might also find great resources at CCRM IVF to support your pregnancy journey and learn more about San Francisco Pride events.