The last time I gave a pregnancy update on the blog was when I was a mere 16 weeks. Still puking daily. Still wearing all of my pre-pregnancy clothes. Sigh. It feels like so long ago. While this pregnancy has definitely flown by, when I think back through all of the events that have taken place during this pregnancy (I was actually pregnant when we moved to Idaho although I didn't know it, yet)--it seems I have been baking this bun for an eternity.
The last 6 weeks have been hard. I have been dealing with some pre-term labor and have been monitored closely by my doctors. My hypothyroidism is getting out of whack again. Acid Reflux. Restless leg syndrome. SPD. My hair is losing pigment and turning red (this actually happened when I was pregnant with Greta, too). Nose bleeds. Oh pregnancy, I have such a love-hate relationship with you.
But she is really moving a lot which makes it more fun and finally, finally Greta is semi-acknowledging she is going to have a baby sister--not without throwing in the "fact" that she has a bunch of animals in her belly also kicking like crazy and keeping her up all night. That girl.
And now, to answer a few FAQs:
How far along: 34 weeks.
Total weight gain: 30 pounds. Nutrition has been my focus this pregnancy, so I'm really happy to see that number (in a weird way). My doctor really wanted me to gain a pound a week (40 pounds total), since I am at high risk of getting bell's palsy again. We're hoping, praying and crossing our fingers the extra storage keeps my nerves and immune system in check this time around.
Sleep: Nighttime is when the restless leg syndrome, insomnia, and acid reflux really kick in, but a few weeks ago the nice people at bump nest sent me one of their pregnancy pillows and I have been sleeping so much better with it. I actually can't wait to get in bed (while I used to dread it). And sometimes I don't wait--afternoon veg session in bed? Yes! This pillow is a miracle worker. Greta and Chris have also been caught cozying up to it.
Food cravings: I haven't been very hungry lately, but I feel like I can't get enough cold water. Even writing cold water makes my throat start to tighten. I need some. A lot! One consistent craving throughout this pregnancy has been frozen mango chunks--I have eaten a ridiculous amount of those.
Queasy/Sick: I haven't thrown up in several weeks (yay!) but I still battle nausea frequently.When heartburn starts kicking in or I haven't eaten in a couple hours.
Gender + Name: It's a girl and we have picked a name we're pretty set on, but haven't shared it and don't even call her by the name yet. I just can't seem to say it out loud until I see her and know for sure she's a _____.
Happy/Moody: I am a roller-coaster of emotions lately, poor Chris. I don't remember being like this with my last pregnancy and it is throwing me for a loop. I am moooooody! It has actually inspired this week's painting--coming at you tomorrow.
6 more weeks, people. Or more. Or less. But we're really shooting for more (despite the discomfort) because, goodness, we are not even close to ready for little baby to make her debut.
Psst. Chris Loves Julia readers use LOVEBN10 for $10 OFF and FREE shipping at bump nest. You're gonna love this thing!
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you look amazing Julia!! I'm so happy for you guys! I'm definitely going to have to get the bump nest the next go around. I had a terrible time sleeping when I was pregnant with Clara!
You are almost there! Try drinking coconut water to help with the restless leg. I know it sounds weird, but it works for me! If you can't stomach the taste mixing it with juice helps.
At the risk of sounding like a total douche, have you ever tried essential oils for your restless leg syndrome? I have a niece who suffers from this and rubs a few drops of Serenity and Aroma Touch on her legs during the attacks and it eases the discomfort significantly. Email me for some samples or find a doTERRA rep in your area and get some and try it!
Julia you look amazing for having had such a tough 9 months! As someone who has suffered from Bells Palsy, I know what a toll it takes on ones system both mentally and physically. I hope all goes well from here on out for you and your family! Also, at 6'1 tall and 6 months pregnant (and on the slimmer side) I am having the hardest time finding maternity clothes that fit me! Being that you are tall and look amazing at full term- do you have any maternity clothing recommendations?? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Is it just me or do clothing designers think pregnant women over 5'10 don't exist????
That pillow looks soothing and I'm not even preggo! Just have knee issues!
Your bump!!! Fun update. and seriously girl--you have it ROUGH in pregnancy. Hang in there! Only a few more weeks!! Eeeeee!!!
You look beautiful the entire pregnancy, despite the fact that u probably feel sick in at least 70% of these photos, I'm guessing. I respect that you are both slightly more private about your family life while trying to still be open w/your readers.
Good luck! Wishing you guys the best.
I just sent the pillow info to my husband as he sits in his law school lecture. He might want this for me even more than I want it, after sleeping with me through our first pregnancy.
I feel proud just watching you go through this sort of thing. I can't even imagine to be honest. And it's not like it's a sprint and that the light at the end of the tunnel is bright... it's a full on marathon and you've really managed well. I know that's easy to say from behind my screen but you make motherhood and pregnancy look easy and graceful!
I bought a bump nest during my pregnancy and it was hands down the best thing I could have done! So comfy, I slept so much better once I had it :)
You're doin' great, little sister! I can't wait to meet my new niece!