A Love Letter To My Pregnant Self

Dear Pregnant Self,

Yay! We did it, Mama. Welcome to week 33 of your pregnancy!

I am so proud of you!

I can’t believe how time just flew by, though I won’t deny that being pregnant plus caring for a ‘terrible twos’ toddler is a completely different ball game. Remember our first pregnancy? Gone are the days when we could sleep whenever, eat whatever, and do all that we wanted, careless and carefree. Now, we are just some little person’s snack servant, with restrictions galore and responsibilities aplenty. Sigh!

Mama, life is about to take a 180° turn yet again and I can relate with the paranoia that you are going through, especially keeping in mind that COVID-19 still exists as it wriggles its way into the 3rd year now.

Will I carry full term? Will the delivery be fine? Will the baby be safe? What will COVID protocols look like? Will I be able to breastfeed? Will the grandparents be able to travel to meet their grandchild? (Mind you they still have to meet the first one in person; ouch!)

So many questions, but no answers in sight.

Well, you know what Mama? My heart knows we will overcome this too, just like everything else in the past.

We’ve been through a lot together, pregnant self, and seen the highs and lows of life, walked through eggshells, danced in the rain, fought our way through sufferings and hardships, and still managed to survive, thrive, and raise a family. And we will do it again Mama! You and I. One step at a time. One day at a time. One tear at a time. Just don’t stop believing in yourself.

Mama, you need to know that you can handle all of it, and you are as ready as you’ll ever be. Yes, there will be times when you’ll not know what to do and times when you will second guess yourself and your decisions. In those moments you have to remind yourself that you’re the best Mama that your children can get, and you know what’s most suitable for them. Don’t give up at any point and always remember, you are a good Mama and a few parenting failures won’t define you. Trust your instincts and believe in the process.

Also, don’t forget to love your BODY the same way you love your children. It’s been through a lot, morphed and changed, sagged and spread, and it does need that extra TLC! Be in awe of the miracle that your vessel is Mama, and make sure that your cup isn’t ever empty. Seek help, share your pain, and ask for assistance.