Pregnant mama ramblings... Help me out here
For those of you who have been pregnant before, can you remember what your third trimester was like? I can't seem to recall much of my third trimester with Kathrynne besides the fact that it seemed really l-o-n-g. I wish I could remember it more so I could know that how I am feeling now is similar to last time. (I kept a journal, but I didn't write much about how I was feeling physically in it - just how I was doing spiritually and emotionally and my excitement about being a first-time mom.)
As I've alluded to, my energy level has dropped tremendously in the last two weeks and I am almost constantly tired. I seem to be able to accomplish about a third or less of what I usually would in a given day. My get-up-and-go has gotten up and left. Since I'm usually a person who likes to stay quite productive, not feeling like doing much more than the basics on most days is really out-of-character. But, I'm guessing this is normal and I just need to take it easy and slow down for the next 11 weeks (or 13 weeks, probably, as I'm assuming this baby will be like Kathrynne and decide that he or she needs to bake longer!)? Please tell me you all slowed down at this point, too, and I'm not just a wimp or something! I'm hopeful maybe this won't last the rest of the pregnancy and that I'll get a burst of nesting energy sometime soon. But I'm beginning to wonder...
How are the rest of you pregnancy mamas doing?
By the way, as a matter of fair warning, this blog will undoubtedly contain quite a bit of pregnancy-related posts in the next few months. I've hit the stage where I'm rather obsessed with all things pregnancy, so for my readers who are used to more eclectic fare and could care less about pregnancy posts, it might be slim-pickins for awhile. Consider yourself warned.
Oh, and I've been in the mood to read pregnancy journals and blogs of late - thanks to my third trimester all-things-pregnancy obsession. Since reading is something which doesn't require a lot of energy I've been doing quite a bit of it so if you are pregnant and blogging about it, leave me your link or email it to me so I can add you to my list of reads.
As I've alluded to, my energy level has dropped tremendously in the last two weeks and I am almost constantly tired. I seem to be able to accomplish about a third or less of what I usually would in a given day. My get-up-and-go has gotten up and left. Since I'm usually a person who likes to stay quite productive, not feeling like doing much more than the basics on most days is really out-of-character. But, I'm guessing this is normal and I just need to take it easy and slow down for the next 11 weeks (or 13 weeks, probably, as I'm assuming this baby will be like Kathrynne and decide that he or she needs to bake longer!)? Please tell me you all slowed down at this point, too, and I'm not just a wimp or something! I'm hopeful maybe this won't last the rest of the pregnancy and that I'll get a burst of nesting energy sometime soon. But I'm beginning to wonder...
How are the rest of you pregnancy mamas doing?
By the way, as a matter of fair warning, this blog will undoubtedly contain quite a bit of pregnancy-related posts in the next few months. I've hit the stage where I'm rather obsessed with all things pregnancy, so for my readers who are used to more eclectic fare and could care less about pregnancy posts, it might be slim-pickins for awhile. Consider yourself warned.
Oh, and I've been in the mood to read pregnancy journals and blogs of late - thanks to my third trimester all-things-pregnancy obsession. Since reading is something which doesn't require a lot of energy I've been doing quite a bit of it so if you are pregnant and blogging about it, leave me your link or email it to me so I can add you to my list of reads.
posted by Crystal Paine at 8:35 AM
54 Comments:
Crystal, This is totally unrelated but I've been unable to start thinking about this since I started reading your blog - and blogs that link to and from this blog - and feel like I've discovered a whole little world out there I knew nothing about. It seems there is a group that has several main tenets - homeschooling, women are keepers at home and no birth control. (I apologize if this sounds as if I am over-simplifying). But it seems these three things are commonalities amongst many of the blogs your blog links to and from. This opens up so many questions for me, which being in the third trimester you may not have the energy to answer right now:) - I've been there, I know.
But I would love to hear your or any of your readers' answers...
1. In an ideal world view where women are keepers at home, does this mean every job in the workforce would be 100 % filled by men? If you were to walk into any given office building, it would be strictly men? Is there a place for women in the workforce?
If the above is true, what about women nurses on OB units in hospitals or in newborn care - places women are often preferred by the patient.
Also, if someone with this view has a daughter - do you ask her 'what do you want to be when you grow up?" or is that question only saved for sons? What if the daughter dreams of being a teacher or a nurse or a doctor or lawyer? Does one say 'no, your places is to be a keeper at home'. What if she adamantly does not desire this? Should she ignore the desires of her heart?
Also, I've heard the thought on here and other places 'how big is your God?' which is a good question. I think in some ways it is a question that hides the need for a real, matter-of-fact answer. I would LOVE to know the answer to these questions.
The idea of an entire workforce being comprised of men is something I cannot even conjure. No more women's restrooms, I guess.
I apologize if this sounds at all sarcastic, if you could see me and speak with me you would hear a tone of honest, sincere wonder...I guess, like I said it is just a whole new school of thought I am not familiar with and my mind longs to know the PRACTICAL answers to these questions.
Hi,
I've never commented before, but I do have 5 children and am an RN and feel somewhat experienced in this area. It is natural to feel very tired in the 3rd trimester, especially with the second pregnancy (or more) because you already have more to do and can't rest as often as you can with the first one. However, many women do become anemic (low iron) at this stage and that might be something worth checking. Just my 2 cents
Crystal,
Hi, I am 26 weeks with my first pregnancy and I know how you're feeling. It seems to me like all of a sudden I just lost all my energy...I went shopping yesterday to get some stuff for my Grandparents Anniversary party and within an hour I was completely wiped out! And my feet were huge! I haven't had a lot of swelling before this, does anyone else's feet swell a lot? I'm like you though, I am really hoping that the nesting stage will kick in so I can have a little more energy!
I hope all continues to go well with your pregnancy!
Serena
Crystal, I have a 7 month old so I can remember very well my last trimester. I was extremely tired, and every once in a while I had a burst of energy. For the most part I didn't want to do anything or go anywhere! I did a lot of reading and some prenatal yoga. The yoga helped me feel better. Don't feel lazy at all. You're growing a person and that takes a lot out of you.
Anonymous: Keep reading here and check out the archives and comments on related posts - I and others have addressed most of those questions at length, especially the women in the workforce one. I also highly recommend the articles on www.LadiesAgainstFeminism.com
And I'm sure we'll have a have a lot more discussion on related issues in the future - as I have time and inspiration to facilitate those.
By the way, if you've not read this article, it is a very excellent starting place:
http://www.ladiesagainstfeminism.com/starthere.htm
Crystal, I have three children and I know what you are talking about. In the third trimester your body is telling you to prepare yourself for a baby. So listen to you body and rest when you can, eat healthy, enjoy some one-on-one time with Kathryn, and try to enjoy this last part of your pregnancy!
Crystal - I'm about 18 weeks with number 4 and I've been tired this whole pregnancy so I feel for you! It does always seem like the third trimester brings total exhaustion. Do have your iron level checked, that can make a big difference. But mostly just plan on taking it easy. My doctor always makes me feel so much better about slowing way down - he reminds me to focus on the WORK my body is doing even when I'm resting. If someone were healing from an injury or an illness we'd expect them to get as much rest as possible and that's just to heal what's already there. Our bodies are literally growing a whole new person - so rest!
One thing I do always find though is that I can do a lot of planning, which makes it easier when the baby gets here, and I usually get little spurts of energy that, if I've planned, can be used effectively. What I mean is I plan ahead of time to use those spurts for things only I can do not for something I can delegate.
I didn't mean to write a book! Hope you're having a good day:)
I'm 22 weeks along and feeling pretty good, other than wanting to go to bed at 10:00 every night! :) Don't you just love feeling your baby move?! My baby is getting quite active and I love his or her active times!
Have you tried taking a sublingual b12 vitamin? I'm taking Total B and I think it has really helped with my energy level - though, I think being pregnant is going to make you tired no matter WHAT supplement you take! :)
Hey Crystal,
I'm 20 weeks pregnant and not too far behind you.
My blog is anewlifeanewjourney.blogspot.com
Blessings and do get a lot of rest :-)
Aisha
Serena, if your feet are swelling that much I would encourage you to call your doctor or midwife. Other than that I have not had children but I am an RN and it's very normal to be tired in the 3rd trimester. The baby is fully formed and is putting on weight and growing now. That can take a lot out of you especially when you are running after a toddler.
I'm right there with you (just a little farther along). :) We're about 2 weeks away from our 3rd's arrival and once the third trimester hit, so did the exhaustion. It sounds like you are right on track with your symptoms! Along with the tired, there is also trouble sleeping, which unfortunately seem to go hand in hand. :) Then there is weird hunger pangs (at all hours), restless legs and cramps, and oh, the hormones.
Did I say only 2 weeks or so to go? :)
Yes, it's absolutely normal, and I felt it more and more with each pregnancy; maybe because I had more little ones to take care of, maybe because the close pregnancies took their toll on my body, maybe because of age. :-) It's normal. Put your feet up and rest when you can.
Although it occurs to me that there is a chance you could be anemic--you might discuss it with your Dr/midwife.
Crystal,
As I have wrote to you a few times that I am in the same week as you give ot take a week. But I also know, know, know , know how you feel really!! I have only had maybe a 3 weeks my whole pregnancy that I had a get up and go attitude. I am feeling even more tired now. I feel like I am in the first trimester. So, Girl hang in there. I am really stressing myself. Because I am no where ready or prepared as I would have been with my previous. Since, I keep hoping every morning I will wake up with a new burst of energy and not feel 65 years old to start my prepartion for baby and house. It has not happened yet. But I am doing itsy bitsy pieces everyday. Like, I have bags of clothes people have gave me and that I have bought. I normally would have these all weeded and washed up and stored by now. Yep, not happened. I could normally do this in a few hours (normal body)Now, I am going through one occasinally. I will pray for our strength.
Chrissy T
Hi Crystal,
I've got 6 and 1/2 weeks to go and the nesting stage must of hit even though I still don't want to clean much;) but the tireness is subsiding some. For me it was the first trimester, I could hardly peel myself off the couch. It comes and goes, I think everything weird and bizarre is "normal" in pregnancy. I don't know about the iron thing but I was told a long time ago if you take a gold ring and wipe it on your cheek and it leaves a black line you are low in iron. I don't know if its true or not but I've seen its make lines on some and not others. Best wishes, Esther
I agree that it's completely normal to be tired in your 3rd trimester. I'm 36 weeks along with my 3rd, and I haven't been able to get anything done for over a month. Sometimes I need to rest after taking a shower! It's a good time to make a list of all the books in your library you want to read so that you can have something productive to do while you rest.
To the anonymous commentor who was concerned about the ads: Please remember that websites like this have to make money in order to stay afloat just as any non-profit organization must make money to stay afloat. Producing products, running a website, buying software, and so forth, all costs money. Lots of money - thousands of dollars a year, in fact. So yes, we do things like allow carefully selected ads and sell products in order to help off-set those thousands of dollars worth of expenses. However, the money the business makes (which is not any enormous amount) mostly all goes straight back into the business. We only make a very small profit ourselves which we use towards family expenses. We're saving to buy a home debt free right now - part of the money from BW is helping to fund that. We also give away a portion of the funds and use a portion of the funds to give resources away to those who can't afford them.
I believe that God has called us all to be wise and frugal and entreprenurial. If you have a problem with the fact that we are a business, no one is forcing you to read here or to buy anything from us. You are more than welcome to read here, listen to our podcasts, read our articles, etc. and never spend a penny. We're here to help. It's not about making money. There's a lot of other things I could be doing with my time if my goal were just to make money. It's not, it's to make a difference in this sin-darkened world and to help encourage other women.
So yes, we turn a profit here - though a small one - but I will always promise you that I do my best to give you low prices and discounts. I want you to always know that anything you purchase from us is priced at what we feel is an honest and fair price. And if people truly cannot afford a book or resource, I very often give it away.
All that said, I'm extremely particular about which ads I will allow here and many times I give ads away for free or barter so that other small companies can get exposure when they don't have. The particular ad you were referring to was just that. I love to help out other small businesses in the same way so many other websites and businesses helped us get off the ground.
God bless you and if you have any further questions, feel free to ask.
-Crystal
I agree with the lady who is an RN. I was anemic during my last pregnancy and it hit about 12 weeks to go in third trimester. I was given extra iron. It helped. I also had lots of cravings for red meat. I grilled a lot of steak over those 2 1/2 months. My husband loved it!!!
Right now, I am 13 weeks with baby number 4. I have been extremely tired from the beginning. Turns out my thyroid is low. Doctor doesn't want to prescribe meds yet, just keeping an eye on it. But, I must say, I feel more like I have mono or something instead of being pregnant. Very hard to keep up with schooling and homekeeping. Anyone have experience with low thyroid in pregnancy?
Hi Crystal
I am currently 26 weeks pregnant with my fourth wonderful blessing. Don't worry about being tired in your third trimester, it is perfectly normal (especially in any of the pregnancies after the first one)
With my last one I was completely useless in my last trimester, my hubby still teases me about the fact that I said I was going to clean and organize the basement in my last trimester (never happened). I am hoping to last a little longer this time;-)
Also a another thing that worked for me was to accomplish all my high energy stuff for the morning that way by the time I was too tired to walk I only had the easy stuff left.
I am doing my own prenatal care and I have my babies at home with just the assistance of my Mother. If your interested you can pop on over to my blog as I am hoping to start doing more frequent post about my pregnancy. In the mean time don't feel guilty about resting, ALOT, your preggy body needs it ;-)
I've only been pregnant once, but the last little bit was full of naps! And sleeping in, and going to bed early... I remember being absolutely exhausted, in a way I'd never been before. I'd been helping out at our church's office, and by the last month, I couldn't even do that anymore -- I'd end up in a puddle of tears when I tried to get up and go too early.
That said, I also enjoyed lots of mid-day outings to stay active. My midwife was impressed that I, large as I was, managed to visit NYC and walk all day long. But I knew that I would have to sleep a little extra the day after such an endeavor.
Anyway, allow for plenty of crash time, at least if you're like I was . Stroll through life, and enjoy the change of pace. It's only for a little while, and it's a special baby-growing season that will be gone before you know it.
p.s. Thanks for this blog. I've never commented before (I read while nursing, and typing with one hand isn't fun for me...) but have been reading daily for several months now. Way to go in raising the bar for young moms, and also for being an example to all, and not letting anyone despise your youth. As a 26 year old whose husband is constantly reminding me, "You've got so much to offer!," I appreciate your example of obediently serving the Lord.
I didn't read any of the above comments, so please forgive me if I might be repeating an idea here. I have two small children, 18 months apart. The last trimester of the first pregnancy was completely uneventful. I had a few down days, but overall felt great up until I had the baby. The third trimester of the second pregnancy, however, was a little on the extra-uncomfortable/extra-tired side. Why? Caring for a 15 month old - holding her, constantly bending over to pick up/get out things for her, lifting her, ect is stress on an already stressed out body.
39 weeks and dead tired! :)
To Serena:
Please have your blood pressure checked. It is very common to develop preeclampsia (formerly called toxemia) during your 1st pregnancy. It usually starts with swelling, then increased blood pressure, and then protein in your urine. I wouldn't be too stressed about a shopping trip that caused some swelling - take the time to put your feet up, but overall you could be starting to develop preeclampsia. I had it my first pregnancy.
Crystal:
This is my 4th baby and I've been tired the whole pregnancy, I try to use the "bursts" of energy for what NEEDS to be done and am trying to rest. I agree with advice from above - make plans, enjoy time with your daughter.
Anonymous:
From a reader's point of view, we're not actually "no birth control" - we're for wisely planning and spacing our children (I have c-sections so need time to recover) and won't use chemical birth control. There will always be women in the workplace because this is a fallen world so not everyone views women as keepers at home. Not everyone is married so they are not held to a keeper at home standard though I think that should be their first priority. As in, their first training should be as keeper at home then branch out to college or work. Widows should care for home and church matters then I could see them working at hospitals, etc.
Jennifer
I was SO tired in my third trimester with Katherine! I was sleeping at least 12 hours a day...if I didn't get that at night by sleeping in, I would take a long nap in the afternoons. I am so thankful my husband and I decided that I would quit my full time job several months before K was born!
Hi, girls, 26 weeks pregnant here and glad to know I'm not the only one who woke up every morning this week feeling like I could use another 3 hours of sleep!
Let's remember to "say a little prayer" for those other tired pregnant mamas when we feel tired.
Hi,
I just remember being very tired. I carried very low, and Miss Pear did not move up during my second trimester, so during my third I had a very sore back. I remember spending most of it in a recliner with my feet up studying Greek verbs.
I was going to bed early and sleeping in, and still thinking a nap sounded good. Probably because i was awake a lot during the night.
Hope this helps!
Anonymous #1: I had a few more moments (taking a morning break from chores here) and wanted to mention something else - of the thousands of people who read this blog, there is a huge divergence of thought.
My goal is to hold up Christ and the Word of God as the standard, not anything else. I believe that Scripture is clear that parents are to be responsible for the education of their children and are to teach and train them in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, that a woman's primary responsibility is to her husband, home, and family, and that children are a blessing and gift from the Lord and as such, something we as Christians should heartily and joyfully welcome. That said, those are not the main tenants of why I blog or what I believe. Yes, being a keeper at home, being a wife and mother, and training my children is a very big part of my life, the reason I do these things is because I am first and foremost a child of the King of Kings. This is the life He has called me to and I joyfully and gladly embrace my calling.
"Biblical Womanhood" is not a cookie-cutter recipe for living which will be played out exactly the same in every woman's life. In many ways, there are no hard and fast answers such as saying a woman should never work outside the home or that a woman must always marry or that a woman must never go to college. Some women will marry young and bear many children, some will marry later and bear few children, some will not be able to bear any children at all. Some will adopt children. Some will go to college, some will not. Some will work outside the home, some will not. Some will never marry and will live a life of service to the Lord, to the Church, to other families.
For each woman, it will play out a bit differently as she seeks the Lord (and her husband if God has given her one) for their direction for her life. That is the beauty of true Biblical Womanhood. Yes, there will definitely be some similarities as I believe the Bible is clear in many areas concerning a woman's role, but there will also be a vast variance in how those roles are played out as each woman seeks to glorify the Lord through her own unique giftings and talents, where God has placed her.
It's not about what women "can't do" - it's about the incredible potential God has for women as they seek to embrace and blossom in the roles He has called them to.
Hi Crystal! I feel the same way about my blog; it has become more and more "pregnancy centered", lately. I am 28 weeks pregnant with my third blessing, today!I have been consumed with reading great pregnancy books such as The Birth Book by Dr.Sears, Ina May Gaskin's Guide to Childbirth, and Gentle Birth Choices. I have been really tired, lately, too. Whenever my husband pops in a movie for us to watch, I fall right to sleep. This is so unusual for me, since I usually need total quiet when I am sleeping. I will continue to pray for your pregnancy. Blessings!
Oh yes, no energy the last trimester is indeed the norm. With my 3rd and last child, I basically spent it on the couch, with morning sickness every day I carried her. When we have older children we have to force ourselves to do the minimum anyway. With the first child, we can rest when and how we like or need to. I did overdo with my 2nd child those last weeks (we were building our house and moving things upstairs and I carried too much that was too heavy). So I had labor for about 8 hours at 6 weeks before her due date and she was smaller too...so I really laid back, way back at that point and she came on time. It would have been very hard for her had she come too early. So don't push yourself...and DO let hubby do any carrying of heavy objects. I realize you may have to pick up your little girl, but be careful about that too...let her come to you and crawl up on you, etc.
Crystal, with five closely spaced pregnancies that made it to the 3rd trimester, I had a lot of tiredness in that last trimester, but i was also quite anemic too. I suggest having that looked at, though as I understand it some tireness is normal. Usually though a big burst of energy comes about a week or so before the birth, and again hours before labor commences.
Regarding the Questions posed by anonymous:
1. Is there a place for women in the workforce?
Not every woman is in every situation at the same time. I don't think that women who have small children should be out working--they should be providing their chidlren with a mother (full time). I know of a lot of women who would consider themselves first and formost a keeper at home and mother, but who also serve as Midwives or work parttime as nurses. Personally I don't "expose my nakedness" to any man but my husband, regardless if he has Dr. in front of his name so I appreciate and only use female midwives and doctors. But, I personally feel that it works out better for both mom and children if mom is not working, especially full time, when children are very little...and that she makes them and her household her priority even when she must. I think women, if they feel their career is way more important than anything, should choose to remain childless. I was raised by a leave-home mom, in daycare, I would rather die than treat my child that way.
"2. Also, if someone with this view has a daughter - do you ask her 'what do you want to be when you grow up?" or is that question only saved for sons?"
I don't mind that question. I do take issue with any adult who insults my 14 year old daughter when they don't like her answer!!! My daughter has been in tears over heartless and rude comments some so called Christians have given her in response to her saying that she looks forward to being a mom! (she is great with children and usually has a stream of them behind her like the pied piper)
"3. What if the daughter dreams of being a teacher or a nurse or a doctor or lawyer? Does one say 'no, your places is to be a keeper at home'. What if she adamantly does not desire this? Should she ignore the desires of her heart? "
First of all, my children aren't mine but God's, and I have taken that stand. But, as God's steward over these children, I have a duty to help them think of how career choices will either liberate them or lock them down later in life based on choices they make now.
This is how I have handled this sort of thing in our home (Being a mom of teens and older-elementary kids). None of them have ever said I want to be a doctor or a lawyer...but they all have clear cut talents in other areas and feel called of God to other things, and I have done my best to guide them in this decision making process to think it through in practical terms, and to develop those skills they have, and look for ways where these skills could be used not only in a "career" that leaves you working for someone else, but also in a ministry or a home business. In essence, taking what we love and thinking about it out of the box! The same goes for my son.
There is also the consideration of the cost of education. Starting off life with tens of thousands in student loans will trap many women in the workforce and trap many young men into working long hours, and we need to help our children "count the cost" of decisions that will affect them for a lifetime. I was over 30 when my loans were finally paid off. I wish I didn't go the traditional route!! They need to hear the "other side" since all of society pushes the "graduate then go to college" script onto them as if it is unnatural to think otherwise.
With my one daughter, she is called to be a missionary to China, or so she has said since she was 8. She now speaks Mandarin passably (she's 10.5), and she loves all things China. Do I want my baby going off to somewhere that they torture and kill Christians? OF course not....but she is not mine, she's God's. And so I have encouraged her by helping her to learn about the culture, to learn the language, and to talk with the Chinese folks in our area who all love the little blonde kid who speaks Mandarin. Only God knows where this is going. But, thin of the possibilies with this passion and these skills...not just missionary but translator, layperson in a local church, consultant, etc.
My other daughter has a desire to be an animator of Films. You don't need to work at Pixar to do that...in fact she just finished animating three more e-cards for me that I will soon have on my website (and earned enough for camp). You don't have to go to college to learn how to animate ;) but you do need a certain amount of drive and passion. There is a tremendous amount of possibilities for that set of job skills that are not limited to working a 9 to 5 with junior in daycare.
"No more women's restrooms, I guess. "
In the socialist countries (where women working is MANDATORY by govt. decree), the restrooms are co-ed and sometimes there are not doors on the stalls, you know, to promote equality. I've been there and gotten to use the facilities with guys walking in and out! It's common in many parts of western Europe now too. In my old college dorm, the bathrooms were also co-ed on our floor by populr vote. Keeping a distinction in the sexes will preserve our ladies rooms. ;)
Well, after hearing from almost 28 other tired pregnant moms, you should feel more normal... :-) I am 24 weeks pregnant and I feel like this past weekend all my wonderful energy disappeared. For me it comes and goes toward the end. It is harder after the first pregnancy because I can no longer lay down to rest during the day. The first four just don't allow it. Getting your iron levels checked is very good advice. ~Diana
http://www.xanga.com/islandlife
I am 16 weeks pregnant with #4 and, yes, my blog is pretty pregnancy-related these days (especially because I've been having placental complications)! The pregnancy does become the ever-present focus, doesn't it?!
Also, with each pregnancy, I have found my energy levels to dip lower and lower. Choosing foods wisely becomes even more important-- but I also have discovered that my iron levels dive lower and lower each time around, as well. My 1st blood draws are usually decent (hemoglobin level of 10.5 or so), but with my 3rd child, I was 8.1 when they did my 28-week draw. :( If you haven't had your hemoglobin level tested recently, I would highly recommend asking your doctor/midwife at your next appt. to do a finger-prick for a quick check.
Other than that, enjoy this season of rest and try to take hints from your body. I know I often feel "lazy" during pregnancy because I'm not doing as much, but as my husband often reminds me, I'm doing something very, very important even as I take a nap: I'm growing a new life!! Rest and take those naps as much as you can with a toddler in the house. Our bodies often know better than our minds what we need.
(Oh, and from a mom who has always gone at least 40 weeks + 3 days, I understand "planning" on a longer pregnancy! It's definitely a good idea so that impatience doesn't have its way in our hearts!!)
Hi Crystal,
I'm 41 weeks with feet the size of sofa cushions and of course all I want to do is sleep - you still sound like a paragon of industry to me! I find especially that keeping the feet up to reduce swelling while sitting up to reduce heartburn while also walking to help the baby drop (this bad baby is still in my throat - no sign he's thinking of coming) while also taking naps when you can is enough to wear anyone out - there's too much conflicting advice and I'm not a pretzel! Aargh. Anyway, that mess coupled with the complete discomfort and the fact that rolling over in bed at this point is a feat of engineering makes for a very poor night's sleep for at least three months - of course you're exhausted! People tell me there will be a baby to show for it at the end of this, although I no longer believe them - I think I may have accidentally chosen pregnancy as a lifestyle, with no end....
All that is to say I totally sympathize, and to remind you of some of the joys you may have neglected to write in your journal. Hang in there!!
Crystal,
I've been reading your blog for awhile and I have to tell you that you are really an inspiration to me! That being said, I'll admit I was a bit relieved (sorry!) when I heard you were starting to tire in your third trimester. I'm at the end of mine (with my second child) and have been incredibly worn out this time around. I keep wondering how you manage to get everything done! I've also been having a lot of contractions and intense pelvic pressure this time, so that doesn't help. But if it makes you feel better, I'm usually a very productive and neat person and I'm getting nothing done as my house gets increasingly dirty. I'm just holding out for the last week before my C-Section when I plan on cleaning the house from top to bottom regardless of how I feel!
Best wishes and thank you for all the encouragement you provide!
Hi! I'm new to your blog, but I thought I'd chime in here. I just had my sixth child...ten days late...so that third trimester is fresh in my mind! It's exhausting making a baby, and the end is the hardest. I was sluggish and weary, too, and just kept plugging along with what HAD to be done and letting the rest slide. Until about a week or so before she was due. I got a sudden burst of energy, and I was feeling great. I cleaned, organized, decluttered, rearranged, and after about 10 days, I was done. Then I just waited. And waited. And waited. With a lot of nervous energy and nothing to do. And now, of course, I have a five week old baby and not nearly enough time with two free hands! Relax and be patient. It goes quickly enough.
I know how you feel! We are 3 weeks away from meeting our baby Sam and I am exhausted! The one thing I started doing that has really helped me feel a little better is only focus on the most important things. I always make my bed, get dressed, and brush my teeth and hair immediately when I get up - no matter if I feel like it or not (this tells my body to WAKE-UP). My 2 and 3 year olds can wait for me to open their door until I am finished. Throughout the day there are 3 things that I make sure get done. Kitchen, laundry, and picking up toys. The older kids help with this, too. If I still have energy after all this I will focus on other things that need to be done.
This is such a short season in our lives - it won't hurt anything to let a few things go for a few months. I want to enjoy this last trimester like it will be my last trimester, LOL. Although we have 6 children and my body is showing no signs of giving out I know that someday God will say "enough". I don't know His plan here so I want to enjoy every minute of each pregnancy like it will be my last. Sometimes that means putting the less important things on hold for a short time.
Blessings to you and your growing family!
Hi Crystal,
As far as the pregnancy posts go, I say keep em' coming! I love hearing about all things pregnancy related- even before I found out I was pregnant. We had our first ultrasound today and were able to see the heartbeat which was really cool! I found out that I'm just under 8 weeks along. Also, I recently started an online journal about my pregnancy at www.newcalling.blogspot.com.
I hope the next 11 weeks go by quickly for you!
Thank you for being sensitive to others (and letting us know) about "pregnancy posts". I am sure that there are others like myself, who are very happy for you, but may not be encouraged about reading about a subject that is difficult.
Third trimester of one's second, third, fourth, etc. babies is much different than that first baby, IMO. Now you have the added blessing of managing a busy toddler ;-)
You are supposed to be slowing down. You are supposed to be resting more now, because your body is working harder and harder each day to keep your sweet baby healthy. It is best to truly listen to your body's hints, rather than your head's lists. (Not saying you're doing that, but I know it was an issue for me.)
These are precious weeks of anticipation and exhaustion. Soon you will be holding your dear one in your arms.
Today I was thinking back on the final days before I had my first baby, nearly 17 years ago. God has graciously given me 5 children, all of whom are such blessings to me. With each addition to our family, I had to readjust my priorities in terms of what I thought had to be done, and when. This is a good thing.
Rest, dear one.
Well, I'm not pregnant, or even married, but I think I'll keep reading anyway :) Hopefully the thoughts and ideas will come in handy someday!!
I'm 33 weeks pregnant and am the 4,398th person to say YES! I'm exhausted! I sleep all night, wake up, and three hours later am ready to sleep another two or three hours. (Well, I try to sleep all night - for the first time I wish we had a bed bigger than full size!) I'm glad to learn it's very normal to be so tired all the time, but I understand the feelings of being unproductive and lazy. I know I need to mop and pack and do that last load of laundry, but it's all I can do to walk to the kitchen and get a glass of water before settling on the couch to read. I don't know what I'm going to do with subsequent pregnancies and small children! :) I do appreciate reading your site. Ours started as strictly pregnancy/baby related but occasionally I deviate. If you're interested, we're over at http://huddlestonfamily.blogspot.com
I think, anyway. Pregnancy has certainly eaten away at my brain cells!
I think it gets worse with each child - with number one, I had boundless energy; painted the whole house, including the kitchen AND the cabinets. With number two, I was a little tired, but still kept a pretty clean house, homeschooled, and had a social life. With number three, I am congratulating myself on my big accomplishment this week: I planted TWO PLANTS on the front porch! Hurray! And I'm only 17 weeks. I've always thought that the 3rd trimester was God's way of overcoming any hesitations we have about birth; bring it on, just let this trimester be over!
Crystal, I definately slowed down at the beginning of the third trimester. For a few weeks then I had more energy, and now that I'm doing the "waiting game" I'm not doing much at all. And feeling very, very lazy. :(
I should add, a lot of the time it's not physical energy I'm lacking, but motivation. I just don't *want* to do anything, and often can't pull my brain together enough to figure out what it is I need to be doing!
Crystal - I was exhausted pretty much my whole 3rd trimester. I felt badly for my son b/c I wasn't up for much playing, but I did my best & my energy level since having my daughter is totally back to normal. So keep positive & don't beat up on yourself! It won't last long.
:)
I think it's great some of you that have said you "slept all night" in your last trimester, because with my last pregnancy (my fifth child is six months old now) I was getting up four times a night to (ahem) "go potty." :) That alone makes for much exhaustion during the day.
'Love hearing pregnancy posts. Having babies is such a blessing!!
You have to remember that this time around is likely different because you are looking after Kathrynne all day, too! It makes sense that you would be more tired than during your last pregnancy - toddlers are hard work! Don't worry, you'll make it through this stage!
I am currently pregnant with my third child and am 19 weeks along. Still in the energetic 2nd trimester, which I using to the fullest! I have blogged a little about my feelings regarding this pregnancy at my site, www.sightsabove.wordpress.com. You're welcome to visit although I am just a newbie blogger and there are only a few posts so far.
I really enjoy your blog, thanks for writing!
-Jennifer
Crystal, I can so relate to your post about extreme fatigue in the third trimester! I experienced that early on with the morning sickness, then it subsided until month 7 when all I felt like doing was sleeping. I'd wake up feeling just as tired as when I went to bed! It was a struggle to get through the day sometimes. It seemed worse the second time around, but probably because I didn't have the luxury to drop whatever I was doing and go to bed since I had a toddler to run after. I did get a temporary surge of energy the week before I delivered when the nesting urge struck hard! Don't worry--that will probably happen to you as well and then you can catch up on whatever has fallen to the way side at that time. I would encourage you to rest and nourish your body as you can. Just break up the big projects into smaller segments so it doesn't seem as daunting. I'll be praying for you!
I just had to comment on the first posting by anonymous regarding keepers at home. I think alot of time the world lumps all of us together into one group and gives us a label...a sort of summation of what they think we think, if that makes sense. Let me assure annonymous that no, we are not all clones of each other. Each of us has a unique situation and home life and while many of the core beliefs are similar, that doesn't mean everyone is a cookie cutter version of the other. We are still individuals, created in God's image, to do His will. I don't have the "Stepford Wife" mentality and go about my days robotically numb. I actually enjoy being with children all day and keeping my home. Not because I especially love to clean the bathroom, for example, but rather for the greater purpose behind it--serving my family with love. I'm not about to say that every woman should be at keeper at home, because that decision is between her and the Lord. That's not the feeling I get from this blog, either. Totally non judmental and gracious encouraging is what I take away and I thank all of the ladies who comment on the various topics. I enjoy hearing from a variety of sisters in Christ who all desire the same thing...to bring Him glory.
I just want to say something to the lady that asked so many honest questions in the last comment.
You asked about teaching your daughters... it's rather funny, my parents never really asked my sister and I "what we wanted to be when we grew up." Other people did, but we didn't really think of it in terms of that. I grew up thinking "What does GOD want me to be?" He wants me to be a stay-at-home mommy someday, I'm pretty sure of it. I can only talk about my experience though, because I'm me. He might want other people working... He may draw someone to be a nurse or professional midwife. I can't possible put those people down because they are drawn to a profession that that they feel God placed that desire in their hearts.
I've been drawn lately to health, nutrition, and natural living. A best friend and I are taking a nutrition course together, and eventually I'd either like to look into another health course, or perhaps even a little bit of mid-wifery. I'm also working as a mother's helper a few days each week. My parents have given their blessing to this, and I have learned so much as I take care of children. I know this time is the best time of learning for me, because I haven't got many responsibilities.
I think we should follow God no matter what. Sometimes I feel like those "desires of our hearts" can become idols... I know mine have in the past. I would suggest to any Mom to teach her daughter to follow God first... sometimes our desires and plans are NOT the same as God's. And we muse learn to give way and let Him lead. It's not easy, I'm doing it every day!
I hope that helps you in some way. While I do have my own opinions, I have to always remember that everbody's are different. The important thing is to let God be in control of our lives.
Crystal,
I'll be 36 weeks tomorrow, and I am experiencing the same lack of energy!!! My doctor keeps reminding me that I have a very active little one to keep up with this time around and to just try to rest as much as I can and not get too down about being so tired all the time. Hopefully, you can take his advice better than I have! :)
It is difficult to not be able to keep up with seemingly normal, everyday tasks, but as my dad keeps reminding me, "It came TO PASS...!" The Lord promises to give us grace for each moment of each day He gives us. That includes these days of pregnancy and childbirth and sleepless nights!
Blessings,
Rebekah W
To be completely honest wiht you, the third trimester was LONG and LONG! It seemed that I was pregnant forever with both of mine, longer with dd since she was 14 days late! I was tired and hungry all the time and had heartburn no matter what I ate (I got heartburn from drinking water!)
But in the end it was all worth it!
Crystal,
I wanted to thank you for the "warning". While I am happy for you and pray that you have a healthy baby with no complications, I'm sure you understand it's very difficult for me to read posts about pregnancy right now. I hope that God will open my womb soon, but until then, I have to be very careful not to read things/watch things that make me discontented in what "portion" the Lord has given me today. So I'm taking a break. Again, I pray that your last trimester goes by quickly and, at the end, you are blessed with a healthy, precious baby.
Johanna
Hi Crystal,
I'm in my 17th week of my fourth pregnancy. With three littles 6 and under running around I don't seem to be gaining much energy back since the first trimester. Every thing must be saved up for taking care of my family right now. The only extras that I do are writing blog posts and reading because these don't take much energy.
Watch out for those sugar cravings and eat a high protein, high fat (healthy fats) diet and let the Lord do his work.
I don't blog too much on the specifics of my pregnancy but more about managing my home with little ones. If you want to stop by I am at http://www.lifewithlittles.com/
Another site that you may enjoy right now is http://fruitfulvines.blogspot.com/ She is a doula and she is pregnant. The whole site is about pregnancy and delivery.
I had my baby boy March 29! A week after his March 21 due date and about a month after my dream due date of March 9th (hehe). I blogged about my pregnancy a lot towards the end, too. I blogged when I started having contractions and everything. My entire extented family called within hours of my blogging about it to see if I was in the hospital yet. Hehe. Here's my blog: bethibaby.blogspot.com
I blogged my amazing birth story (G rated for those with weak stomachs :-)) So just look for the posts at the end of March, beginning of April.
But yeah, I lost my energy towards the end, too. I even have a post entitled: I Don't Nest. Because I didn't! I didn't have the energy to! (I have a toddler under two as well).
Well, happy readings!
Beth
Hi Crystal. I am 32 weeks now and am doing great. I know you said you had trouble with the actual taking of SuperMom vitamins, but you really should do whatever it takes to take them! I THOUGHT I was having a great pregnancy...then I ran out of vitamins and decided to see how I felt without them. For about the first 3 or 4 weeks of my third trimester I took regular prenatals and I felt HORRIBLE. Suddenly had headaches, felt sick all the time, and had EXTREME fatigue. About 2 weeks ago I finally got more SuperMoms and it was only a couple days before I felt awesome again! I am going strong all day with no nap late into the night, even with three other children 5 and under. No headaches, no sickness, even the body pains I was having went away alhtough I can't see how that connects! Also, a body pillow has helped me immensely!
I blog about my pregnancy a lot, although I took the past week off. www.xanga.com/homekeepingheart
Jennifer
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