Erica Kartak

I’m already into week 31 of this pregnancy. In a little over 8 weeks, we’ll no longer be a family of 3! If the next 8 weeks go as fast as the last 30+ have, we’ve got some preparation and nesting to do. I know she’ll steal our hearts as soon as she arrives, but right now Lawson has our undivided attention and it’s hard to shift our focus to this little girl. Luckily she’s doing great and continuing to grow right on schedule.

Due Date: Varies from September 1st to 5th, but I have a c-section scheduled for August 25th. It’s exciting to know her birthday!

# of Weeks: 30 weeks! It’s hard to believe I’m in the third trimester already. This pregnancy has flown by. 58 days to go!

Feeling: Overall, I feel pretty good. Oh, I’m definitely getting bigger and feel the normal aches and pains of a sore back and feet. This time around my body is used to the stretching so that doesn’t hurt quite as much. And I’ve got Lawson to chase after every day, which keeps me moving. I’d like to finish off my current barre3 package with 2x/week workouts the next few weeks.

Sleeping: Most nights are spent at least partially on the couch. I’m a little cooler and more comfortable there.

Wearing: Mostly maternity clothes, including these Blanqi leggings and tank, Storq dress and Joe’s shorts.

Craving: Similar to my pregnancy with Lawson, I haven’t had any crazy cravings. While I’m not a fan of salads, I’m trying to eat healthy while indulging in one treat a day. Sometimes it’s a square of chocolate, cookie or popsicle.

Missing: Sushi and a cold beer. Strange because I’m not a huge beer drinker.

Anticipating: We just got back from Hawaii, which I had been anticipating for months! Next up I’m looking forward to the summer Olympics. It will be a great way to pass the last few weeks of this pregnancy.

Dreading: Okay, I’m not dreading them but my twice-weekly doctor appointments start next week. It’s great to be able to see our little girl each week, but spending 2+ hours getting there and at the appointment will be hard to fit into Lawson’s schedule.

You may remember from Lawson’s pregnancy that I have a large fibroid which grew to 18cm (more here). Between pregnancies it shrunk to 11cm and has only grown to 13cm during this pregnancy. Sometimes I wonder how I am still so big if it’s much smaller than last time. Friends and strangers alike often comment on how great I look, which is obviously great to hear. I’d be lying if I didn’t admit to still struggling with the weight gain, stretched out skin and cellulite appearing on my bum and thighs. On one hand, I believe storing up that fat is essential for me to be able to breastfeed especially in the first few weeks following delivery. On the other, it’s not a sight I welcome on my legs. I envy those women with cute little bumps that love being pregnant. I am not one of them. I’m grateful for this pregnancy, but I’m ready to complete our family and my stint as a pregnant woman. :)