My partner and I were fortunate enough to welcome three children in the span of just three years. Yes, it was a deliberate decision. The first two were meticulously planned, considering numerous factors, while the third was a spontaneous result of indulging in chocolate and wine one snowy Valentine’s night, leading to some questionable choices regarding birth control. With each pregnancy, I observed how quickly everything evolved—not just in terms of my expanding waistline but also in the dynamics of pregnancy itself.
Announcing the Pregnancy
When we revealed our first pregnancy, we orchestrated a cozy gathering with dim lighting, holding a flickering candle while soft harp music played in the background. I felt radiant, surrounded by joyful tears and heartfelt hugs. Anticipation grew as friends and family eagerly marked their calendars, showering me with gifts and plentiful advice.
For the second child, the announcement was more casual. We shared the news with close relatives while wrangling our newly walking toddler. Everyone was thrilled, and my mother and sisters organized a lovely sprinkle that included a much-needed mani-pedi. I remember it being delightful—though I might have dozed off during the pampering.
By the time we announced our third pregnancy, we opted for a low-key approach, sharing the news as we interacted with friends and family. Sweet smiles greeted us, often accompanied by the question, “Oh, again?” There was no advice or showers this time—just the understanding that we were already equipped with all the necessities.
Maternity Fashion Evolution
With my first pregnancy, I was eager to don stylish maternity attire. I had ample time to shop and even enlisted a few friends for fashion advice. My goal was to channel my inner Sarah Jessica Parker, complete with fashionable heels and chic handbags.
During my second pregnancy, maintaining a sense of style became a challenge, thanks to the overwhelming fatigue. By five months in, my previous maternity clothes barely fit, so I ordered some larger, more practical options online. Gone were the chic accessories; it was the year of the velour tracksuit, and comfort took precedence.
When I discovered I was pregnant with my third child, I was still wearing the maternity clothes from my previous pregnancy, albeit with worn-out elastic. Stylishness had taken a backseat to practicality. My primary concerns revolved around satisfying my cravings and managing nap times for my two little ones.
The Belly Touch Experience
The first time someone touched my belly during my first pregnancy, it felt magical. An older gentleman even predicted I would have a boy destined for greatness. I welcomed those gentle touches and savored the warmth they brought.
In my second pregnancy, I was less enthusiastic about belly rubs. Occasionally, I would tolerate it, but mostly I shielded my midsection with my toddler, using him as a barrier against unsolicited touches.
By my third pregnancy, I had perfected my “resting bitch face.” A quick glimpse in the mirror before leaving the house ensured that no one dared approach my growing belly. This tactic saved me from many awkward encounters, and I often wondered if I’d have to defend my personal space with a few choice words.
Cravings and Eating Habits
During my first pregnancy, my appetite surged after the first trimester, and I indulged mindfully. I gained a reasonable amount of weight, which I managed to shed fairly quickly post-birth.
By the second pregnancy, I struggled to maintain control. I found myself mindlessly munching chips on the kitchen floor, and Velveeta mac and cheese became a staple of my diet. I even consumed chocolate milk in record time.
By the time my third pregnancy rolled around, I had thrown caution to the wind. I surrendered to every food whim, and if a burger joint lacked meat toppings, it was a cause for tears—definitely not mine. I devoured an entire batch of frosting and experimented with foods that surely were not meant to be dipped. My penchant for snacks spiraled, and I might have been responsible for the “12 years old and younger only” sign by the free cookies at the local grocery store.
Feeling Baby Kicks
Midway through my first pregnancy, I experienced the tender flutter of my baby’s first kick. It was a serene sensation that I cherished, and I found joy in every hiccup that followed.
With my second child, the kicks came earlier and were more pronounced. Those final weeks were filled with strong jabs to my ribs, making me acutely aware of my little one’s movements.
By my third pregnancy, it felt like my bladder was a playground. Kicks were less gentle and more like playful assaults on my internal organs, reminding me just how much my body had changed.
Despite the many transformations through each pregnancy, one constant remained: the overwhelming joy I felt after each child was born. The blissful moments of bonding that followed made every kick, awkward belly rub, and late-night snack binge worthwhile. Now, after dropping off my three kids at school, I often retreat home, donning my velour jumpsuit, and indulge in frosting—no pregnancy required.
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Summary
Navigating through three pregnancies within three years brought a whirlwind of changes, from heartfelt announcements to evolving maternity styles and varying experiences with belly touches. Each pregnancy presented unique challenges, especially concerning food cravings and the physical sensations of baby movements. Yet, the joy of welcoming each child transformed every moment into a cherished memory, even leading to indulgent treats at home post-school drop-off.