My Pregnant Body: The Reverse Perspective at 34 weeks

A few weeks ago I decided to write honestly about the real physical and emotional struggle that exists for so many pregnant women, including myself. And although what I shared is true and necessary to express, I've been thinking the reverse perspective is equally important to more accurately report on my experience of pregnancy.

So here's what I failed to express in my last post...the sensation of tiny hands and feet pushing against my insides is truly amazing. In fact, I'm brought to tears just writing about it. It's the one "physical symptom" that I never tire of feeling. Even when those little legs catch the edge of my ribs or little hands push against my bladder, I smile. Well, at first I might startle a bit at the sudden twinge...but it's so remarkable to be reminded that all the other physical symptoms aren't just phantom feelings...they mark the presence of a miracle growing inside.

This morning, for example, after being awoken by my darling 2 year old (who takes it upon himself to hand me my glasses and phone each morning with a "here you go!"), I felt the little one pushing quite strongly in opposite directions, as if to get in a few morning stretches before the day began. It's a phenomenal feeling, which is why I know it's a necessary part of the pregnancy experience to share.

Here's the main reason I feel the need to balance my pregnancy reporting with this phenomenon: It's the one physical experience that actually inspires me to think beyond the pregnancy itself. From the first flutters to the final ninja kicks, each movement of this little one instantly reminds me that pregnancy isn't forever....and that is really, really exciting! :)

The rolls and waves of baby parts in my belly jump-start my imagination. And I begin to wonder...Will you have long fingers on those tiny hands? Will your legs be chunky or slender? Will you have any hair when you first emerge? Will we get the hang of nursing right away- or will it require some serious effort? And the questions go on and on. It's the kind of pondering that brings me to believe the pregnancy will be worth it after all. And let me tell you, right about now that is a true blessing!

So keep kicking, little one, and remind me that soon enough this pregnancy will be over and a whole new set of challenges and joys will begin!

Me smiling to remind myself that it's all worth it in the end!