20 Weeks and Counting! Halfway there!

I am officially 20 weeks pregnant and am delighted to announce that Luke and I are expecting a Baby Boy!

I am thankful to have had a fairly positive pregnancy so far. Aside from fatigue (6 weeks into my second trimester I can finally make it through the day without a nap), low blood pressure, and an insatiable appetite, our little one has made this a relatively easy pregnancy. Then again, I’m only halfway there! 

Low Blood Pressure: 

A fairly common pregnancy symptom, particularly in the second trimester, best cured by frequent snacks, Gatorade, and electrolyte enhanced water. Smartwater is a favorite, although Whole Foods makes a generic version that is just as good. 

Maternity Clothes: 

Must-have staples? Indulge in a pair of maternity jeans, leggings, and a supportive nursing bra. Paige, J Brand, Joe’s Jeans, AG, 7 For All Mankind, and Citizen of Humanity all make great maternity jeans. I was hesitant to purchase a pair with the panel insert, but as another new mommy described them, they fit every time! As for leggings, David Lerner maternity leggings from ShopBop are well-worth the splurge. 

Where to shop? A Pea in the Pod is my favorite. Pickles and Ice Cream, ShopBop, and Target also have great selections. 

BellyBands? I could give or take this often recommended purchase. While it does work nicely, it felt somewhat restricting, and once I finally gave into maternity clothes (at 18 weeks), I quickly realized that they are so much more comfortable. Lesson to remember when Baby #2 comes along? Break out the maternity wear much earlier! Besides being stylish and comfortable, who doesn’t love an excuse to do a little shopping. 

More TidBits: 

Other new mommies continue to be my biggest resource. 

Exercise continues to be my saving grace. I am so thankful that I’ve been able to continue teaching and taking Pure Barre. It has helped with fatigue, kept the weight gain at a slow, but steady pace, and eased prenatal anxieties and worries. 

The Preggle Body Pillow seems to get more and more comfortable as sleeping gets trickier and trickier. 

Where to Register: Babies ‘R Us, Pottery Barn Kids, and Restoration Hardware Baby & Child all have excellent selections, user friendly websites, and conveniently located stores. BabyBliss in Snyder Plaza, Target, and Buy Buy Baby are also great options. 

Up Next on my Reading List: The Happiest Baby on the Block & The Sleep Lady’s: Goodnight, Sleep Tight