Is the 2nd Pregnancy Any Different?

One of the most common questions I have been getting - "Is this pregnancy the same or different than your first?" So last night I began wondering this very question and decided to list some of the similarities and differences I have noticed recently.

Similarities:

1. Heartburn

2. Sleeplessness (occasional)

3. Lack of Energy, BURSTS of Energy, then Lack of Energy. Repeat.

4. Pretty nails – my Grandma Voors would be very proud of the strength & length of my fingernails – gosh, if I could only take time for a manicure! It’s sad to report that my toenails on the other hand are a completely different story and in a very SAD state.

5. The feeling of excitement and anticipation. I love touching my belly and talking to the baby. I get very excited when I think about what this baby will look like, their personality, color of eyes and overall demeanor.

6. Using a Body Pillow. This is my bestest friend of all time – oh body pillow how I love you and you help me get comfortable.

Differences:

1. Nausea – I had quite the spat with feeling sick to my stomach for all of the 1^st trimester, and still on occasion throughout the 2^nd.

2. Charley – it’s pretty neat to have a little guy to share in the moments of pregnancy. Charley will be the first to comment that Mommy’s belly is getting bigger (FYI: this is okay for a 3 year year old, and so not okay for anyone else to acknowledge my weight gain!)

3. Anxiety – I’m more cautious with this baby and worry more about twinges, cramps and odd feelings. Understandably I worry in the hopes that this baby stays cooped up for about 2 months longer than Mr. Charles.

4. Baby movement – I remember Charley moving and kicking around, but this baby seems to be VERY active and is practicing to be an acrobat! I can pretty much pin point the times that the baby will be moving and shaking around. I look forward to those daily connections with the baby.

5. Weekly ear shots of the baby – As a part of the weekly injections I get the opportunity to hear the baby’s heartbeat – it has stayed around 140-150 for the last 4 weeks.

6. Need more Input! Honestly we didn’t spend much (if any) time reading pregnancy books with Charley. This time I at least have some books on my night stand and have been trying to read a bit before bed each night. I’m definitely reading up on Ezzo’s “Baby Wise” because that was AMAZING for Charley sleeping through the night at 3 months, so let’s cross our fingers for the 2^nd!

7. No Photos Please oh Please! I have no desire to take ongoing photos of my oh-so-growing belly (and chin) this time around. Oh how I wish I did, but since it didn't start out as flat as it did the first go-around, I think we'll just leave that all to the imagination.

I may have to add to this list because I’m sure there are many more things to consider.

*Question of the Day:

Why are there no pockets in my maternity dress pants? Where exactly am I supposed to put my chapstick? C’mon people, this is ridiculous! While I’m on the topic if you haven’t yet milled around a maternity clothing section just take a gander at the COST for a pair of pants or just one top! I recognize that I’m cheap and so I’m a tad jaded on what items should cost, but I find it absurd to pay $40 for a pair of jeans you only get to wear for about 6 months!