I saw a quote recently saying, ‘it’s not about what’s under the tree, it’s about who’s around it.’ This time of year I get extra sentimental with my emotions. It’s just the best time of year to me, but the last few years have been extra ‘sappy’ for me with having young children.
My upcoming due date is Jan. 14, and it’s been the roughest pregnancy I’ve had with a few hospital visits and some scares, but all is well with baby boy thus far, which I’m very grateful for. Having three children in the winter months is definitely tough as it’s right around the holidays, but that’s how the cards have fallen, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m just hoping the roads stay nice in case we need to get to the hospital fast.
I was quite lucky with my first as I was able to drive myself to the hospital during the day while my husband was at work, and with my second I got induced at 39 weeks, so everything was planned nicely with grandma getting to babysit.
I’m really hoping for a smooth labour and delivery with this one. He’s measuring on the larger side like my second, so he sounds pretty healthy this far! I’m in the home stretch, and we are getting so excited to meet him, especially after such a tough pregnancy. I’m excited to be done and have all our boys together under one roof, completing our family.
Having a baby around Christmas definitely comes with its hurdles, as it’s such a busy time with Christmas concerts, wrapping and family visits. It’s hard to have a plan if that baby wants to come early. I’m hoping he stays in until at least after Christmas!
With all of that said, having a baby around Christmas comes with its fair share of magic, too. I remember having our second before Christmas, on Dec. 8, and those weeks leading up to Christmas were definitely tiring, but so amazing to have another little miracle in our home.
Life really is precious and it’s important to remember to be grateful for what you have right in front of you. Having my two boys and my husband home and healthy for the holidays is the greatest present of all. When I was younger and even before having kids I was excited for the presents and sitting around sharing what we got. I’m still excited for that, but with so many sicknesses and health scares out there, it’s had me really feeling grateful for who is in my life not what.
This year also marks the first year without our sweet girl Alice, who passed away in the summer. It’s definitely been hard, but we have all of the wonderful memories with her close to our hearts.
Christmas, while a very magical holiday, can be one of the toughest ones too, especially with the loss of loved ones. So, be gentle with yourself and hold on tight to those close to you. Call a friend or look back on the memories you have. I hope everyone has a safe and Merry Christmas.