When my pregnancy took focus, there were practical matters that needed my attention — like snacks. I needed snacks with me or my nausea would kick-in and my concentration would wane. I started stashing crackers in my handbag and coat pockets so I’d have access to food at all times. Then later in my pregnancy, I found that having extra underwear close by became a must. I was carrying a baby that liked to dance on my bladder, and there were occasions I couldn’t waddle to the bathroom fast enough.
These were helpful tricks I thought I wouldn’t use after my son was born. I was wrong. I still practice the tips I cultivated when I was a pregnant person — I’ve just made some special modifications to the more recent list. These are the seven ways my pregnancy prepared me for motherhood:
1. Always bring snacks
3. Elastic waistbands are best
Who needs skinny jeans? While they may be the trendy choice, these fashion-forward pants doesn’t allow me the freedom of movement I need when sitting on the floor stacking Legos, having dance parties, or trying to catch my kid when it’s bath time.
4. Keep comfortable shoes accessible
When I was pregnant, my feet became large and swollen and resembled those of Bilbo Baggins from The Hobbit. I kept roomier flip-flops and other shoes on hand for when my feet needed extra help. Today, I still keep backup comfy shoes for myself, and now for my son too. There’s no telling what swimming pool-sized puddle he might encounter when we’re out on our adventures.
5. Keep extra underwear near
During my pregnancy, extra underwear became a necessity. Laughing, crying, or blinking might move me to reach for that extra pair of underwear I always kept with me. Now that my kid is always with me, I’ve found that carrying backup for both of us is a must — especially for those times my little guy has said, “Mom, I need to find the bathroom. Never mind.”
6. Stay hydrated
I wasn’t the best about drinking water before I became pregnant. I never seemed to be thirsty. Then the baby in my belly made me want to drink all that water in the lake near our house. I started carrying a bottle of water with me and decided it was a good habit to keep up. These days, I carry a water bottle for both my son and myself when out and about.
7. An attitude of gratitude
Pregnancy brought out a massive shift in my perception, because after meeting my son I understood how truly miraculous life was. I try to keep this awareness with me and do my best to pass this one little nugget of wisdom on to my little guy.
It was a great surprise to learn that the needs of my pregnancy have continued to influence my non-pregnant life. I’m happy that the lessons I accumulated there have remained helpful in raising my son — and keeping us dry and hydrated.
