15+5

Although everything I have read has promised the second trimester would bring renewed energy, nausea relief, unicorns, and rainbows, I have yet to feel any of these things!  As much as I have crossed my fingers and hoped and prayed for the nausea to desist, it has yet to say goodbye to my pregnant body. I actually threw up for the first time this week. Luckily it was just in my mouth. Not sure if that is something to feel lucky about... but I was definitely surprised! Needless to say, I am quite concerned about what the future of this pregnancy entails as I continue to feel my tummy turn into the wee hours of the night. At my last visit just before my 14th week my doctor appeared visibly concerned that my nausea hadn't lightened up. However, she said that some women take about a month longer to feel relief, which matched what I had read, but by 16 weeks I should be a-okay and in the clear. As the 16 week mark fast approaches (2 days away), I can't describe my emotions in a better a word than fear! Why am I not feeling this relief that I have been promised?! My doctor continued to inform me that if I still feel nauseous at 18 weeks, I can say hello to what will be my new loving and dear pregnancy friend, morning sickness, because it will take permanent residency in my body throughout the rest of my pregnancy until I pop this little bugger out. Will I seriously be in that remarkably small percentage of women who simply don't feel relief from this disgusting feeling? Please say it isn't so!

My other most frustrating pregnancy symptom is the constant constipation! Oh my goodness! Is it so much to ask to just be able to go to the bathroom like a normal person?! You would think that the bird seed I eat every morning (as Donald so lovingly calls it), my constant water intake and fruit consumption would serve me some type of benefit, but no, my poop is too stubborn. I know that neither of these things are very pleasant to read about, but I must admit it feels pretty good to get my complaining out! It is funny that when we were planning pregnancy, I had this incredible romantic idea in my head. I had not considered the negative toll on my body that would coincide with this huge decision. In no way do I regret our choice to get pregnant, but I wish I would have had a little bit more foresight to prepare myself!

Amongst all the unpleasant symptoms, I have many things to be happy and thankful for. This week my mom treated me to a food I have been craving for over a month: homemade macaroni and cheese! My mother also spoiled me with my first maternity clothes. I am a new lover of the belly band which accommodates my ever-expanding waste-line! (However, I must admit it is weird not buttoning my pants, but oh-so comfortable!) Also, my lovely husband surprised me with flowers today which was a wonderful gesture to come home to. What keeps me going through these difficult times is my loved ones' constant support. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by people who genuinely care about my well-being and are fully invested in my pregnancy.