The Final Stretch

With prepping and nesting ending, we enter the final stretch of waiting for the baby to arrive. This time can look different for individual expecting moms, but I believe we all share the same feelings of anticipation, excitement, joy, and exhaustion.

There is so much unexpected ahead. When will my baby come? How will labor and delivery go? How will my other children respond to a new sibling? Although these thoughts and feelings are valid, I believe that God has been trying to get me to understand how much control is out of my hands and desires for me to rest in his promises. There is so much that I simply cannot control, and this pregnancy journey has forced me to release those things to God (to keep my sanity). 

Surrender is hard! It’s been no easy process; there are many moments throughout the day where I try to grasp hold of those thoughts and feelings that bring me back to circumstances that are out of my hands. In these moments, sometimes I cry out to God because I know that He cares about how I feel. Other times, I pick up my devotional and cling to His promises. And thank God for my husband, because most of the time he is on the other end of my venting and always talks me through my wavering emotions.  

Here are some things that I am making an effort to put into practice during the final stretch of pregnancy:

Sitting in the presence of God daily:

Yes, this should be an everyday practice, but it doesn’t always happen. Through the busyness of caring for my children, husband and home (along with the most insane level of physical exhaustion) time with God feels so hard to experience. But when I do prioritize this time my day seems to be filled with so much more peace. Not because things don’t go wrong or aren’t chaotic l, but because I am experiencing His peace through it all.

Meditate and Journal:

This is one of my favorite ways to connect with God. There is so much power in quieting the mind and allowing a break from the noise, not only around us but within us, to make room for God’s voice. Meditation is truly the greatest tool I’ve used throughout my faith journey. Journaling has also been essential for me when I feel that my mind is holding onto too many thoughts. When I and able to journal, I am allowing myself to release everything that I am feeling because I am transferring it from my mind to paper. Even if it’s just for a few minutes a day, journaling allows you to get those thoughts and feelings out of your head, and it feels like a weight has been lifted 

Do one thing that makes you feel like yourself daily:

With all of the changes physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, it is so important to maintain a level of self-identity through it all. It’s so easy to get lost in the motions of day-to-day life and forget about taking care of yourself. For me, this can look like going to grab a coffee alone with my laptop and scrolling Pinterest for inspo. On other days, this can simply be a good hair wash and refresh day that leaves me feeling amazing. Whatever brings you joy and makes you feel like yourself, prioritize doing that each day. 

Taking care of my body:

When I consume good things, I feel my best. Trust me, this is a huge challenge for me some days. I feel like I am in the stage of pregnancy where I want to eat EVERYTHING or nothing but fries and bread. But having a routine of eating simple, well-balanced meals at home during the week just makes me feel so good both physically and mentally. Walking and moving the body in whatever way feels comfortable to you not only allows your body to adjust to the many changes taking place but also can prepare your body for birth.

The third trimester has not been easy, but I believe it is a time meant for slowing down, being intentional, and resting before the transition of welcoming a baby, so I hope these tips help empower you to lean into this season of life. 

Prayer:

God, you tell us in Ecclesiastes‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.” Thank you for entrusting us to bring life into this world; it is the greatest gift in life. Please allow us to surrender to your word fully and rest in your promises. Lord, be our guide, strength, and peace in a time that can feel overwhelming. Allow us to consume more of you and less of the things we can’t control. We trust you fully and your perfect timing for all things.

In Jesus’ name, Amen