Because I Can

Because this is MY blog and I get to write whatever I want, I'm going to whine for a few paragraphs. Bear with me or stop reading, whatever suits you...

This pregnancy has been a lot more challenging than the first one. I believe it has mostly to due with the fact that I now have a two-year-old to take care of, which includes a lot of sitting on the floor, lifting, crawling and other abnormal body positions. However, I think this one would have been more challenging without all of that.

I started having a hard time sleeping much earlier this time. With pregnancy number one, I had to get up to tinkle in the night during the first trimester and at the end but I didn't have a hard time getting comfortable until I was good and large. This time, I've had to tinkle in the night almost every.single.night. and the discomfort has been in full force for several weeks already. I wake up several times each night and never feel sufficiently rested in the morning. I take a nap in the afternoon because I'm totally exhausted and then can't fall to sleep quickly at night (and repeat).

Back pain with pregnancy number one took place mostly in the first trimester and was triggered by walking (particularly the dreaded stairs on my way home from BYU each day). This time, my back pretty much hurts all the time. I don't know how to avoid sitting on the floor and lifting Abby, so this is something I have (mostly) learned to accept.

**Warning** The next paragraph contains too much information for the weak of heart!

I'm never a particularly, um, regular person, if you know what I'm saying. With pregnancy number one, going number two was painful, and I mean, like, prepare you for labor painful. We purchased all of the latest fiber-packed delights and things went more smoothly (sorry, I couldn't resist). Thankfully, things have been better this time around. But, recently, I've started having this nagging pain somewhere along the ole digestive tract. It ranges from mild to quite painful without any obvious provocation. I'm hoping my doctor will have some insight at my next appointment because it's seriously stressing me out.

I think the most frustrating symptom is my mood swings. Throughout the day, I am randomly struck with anxiety. I think I have a desire to nest but I've already done everything that can be done up to this point. It helps to clean or tidy but there is only so much tidying a girl can do. I also think my mood is down because we aren't getting out much; it's too stinkin' cold!

Thankfully, my wonderful Sam has been home most of the time during the past week. He has been studying for finals but is quick to help me out throughout the day. A lot of the wives ship out during finals so I feel bad hanging around being needy, but he as always, has been so great. I really don't know what I would do without him. Come Friday, around lunch time, we'll have two fabulous weeks of vacation to spend together (and with my parents who are coming into town). Hopefully, I will be lifted by Christmas spirit enough to make it through the next two months!