Here I am in the third trimester, and I can feel the finish line coming up fast!

It’s wild to think about how I can feel so many things at once: I’m unique, yet totally normal; special, but also just like everyone else. It’s a crazy mix of emotions being pregnant! If I were to break down my pregnancy experience, most people would probably say it’s been pretty typical.

In the first trimester, I was completely wiped out and throwing up like it was my job. It was tough, but I was relieved to know those symptoms were part of a “normal” pregnancy.

Then came the second trimester, where I slowly started to feel more like myself again. I had a bit more energy, my maternity clothes were finally fitting, and I was over the moon to feel those first little flutters from baby G.

Now in the third trimester, I’m starting to feel pretty huge! Little Boy is kicking and moving like crazy, but it can also be uncomfortable just sitting or lying down for too long—sometimes even just being upright feels like a workout!

And let me tell you, my son is already following in his dad’s footsteps as an overachiever. He’s measuring two weeks ahead and doing all the right things to come into the world as a healthy little guy. Honestly, it often feels like I haven’t done much to make this happen; I just have to trust that God is in control.

This whole journey has made me laugh, cry, and feel all kinds of emotions. My perspective has shifted so much in the last seven and a half months. It’s such an honor to feel like a vessel, a safe space for new life to grow. The idea of being someone’s lifeline is both exciting and terrifying. For the first few months of his life, my son will depend on me and his dad for food and care, and that’s a huge responsibility! I’ve had months to grasp how monumental that is. It feels surreal that someone who has always relied on help for basic survival will now be the lifeline for a brand new person. It’s a lot to take in! I don’t always feel ready or qualified, but I find peace in knowing that God will help Christopher and me navigate this new adventure of parenthood.

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Now, let’s get real about what it’s like being pregnant with cerebral palsy.

My body has definitely been through the wringer during this pregnancy. Even now, in my third trimester, I’m still dealing with puking first thing in the morning every day. I’m constantly trying to get food and pills down so I can avoid a day full of nausea and discomfort. A lot of this is thanks to my hiatal hernia and extra mucus in my chest and lungs.

Oh, and I was diagnosed with high blood pressure towards the end of my second trimester. Thank goodness the meds are working, so that’s one less thing to stress about!

Going to the bathroom has become a real challenge. With my growing belly and the 30 pounds I’ve gained since the first trimester, my balance is totally off. Every time I sit down, I get hit with painful muscle spasms and feel like I can’t catch my breath. It’s pretty scary and makes everything worse. I’ve never liked using the bathroom, but now it feels like a total nightmare! Thankfully, Christopher is always there to help me through the tough moments. When he’s not around, using a bedpan is a bit easier, but I still prefer the toilet, even if it causes me pain.

I also get random stomach spasms when I’m in my wheelchair or just lying in bed. In those moments, I remember my limitations and pray for a little grace to get through the pain.

Before I wrap up, I just want to express how immensely grateful Chris and I are for the amazing Community, Family, and wonderful friends we have in our lives. The outpouring of love and support we’ve received has been truly overwhelming, and I feel deeply humbled by everyone who has offered advice, lent a listening ear, or provided gifts, as well as all the other ways you’ve shown your love and encouragement. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.

I can see the finish line of this pregnancy sprint, but I also know that a whole new marathon is just starting. As exhausted as I am, I’m ready to dive into this next adventure!