Embracing the belly

News flash - this summer has been hot. Really hot. Now add in that I'm carrying around a bowling ball and that makes it ....well..... just a little uncomfortable.

It took a little while to get used to seeing myself with a pregnant belly again. I'd walk past a mirror and have to do a double take. I'll put my hands where my waistline used to be and find there's no hips there to put my hands on. First thing in the morning I'll want to jump out of bed like I normally did, and I find that hurts. Oh, yeah, I forget that my muscles are ripping apart.

The other day I lifted up my shirt to show my kids my belly. Outburst of laughter erupts. Ok, ok, a little laughter is expected....but come on...uncontrollable laughter? They then proceed to parade around the house with different items under their shirts mocking my pregnant belly. "Look, I'm mom!". Even my sweet baby girl joined in.

All that said, I have to say, I'm loving this belly. I'm embracing the very last pregnant belly I will ever have. This will be the last time that I will ever feel a baby move and grow inside me. The last time I will ever stare at an ultrasound picture and think of who the baby looks like. Dream of who he will be. The last time I eagerly go to a doctor's appointment with the anticipation of hearing a baby's heartbeat for a moment. The last time I search through piles of books... and tons of online sites...and the bible for a baby name. Last time I search for that perfect bedding, theme and colors. The last time someone gives up their seat for me. The last time I can use that special "Expectant moms" parking at the gym. The last time I'll take my vitamins with such devotion. This list can go on....

That doesn't mean I would want to be pregnant forever. I want October to be here already. Because I want my baby in my arms. Oh, sweet day....

But until that day is here......I'll be embracing this belly ...