Between Basketballs & Baby Bumps

It’s the first time I’ve ever left a season early without my husband and it’s the first time I’ve ever been pregnant. Those two together equal me being in a constant state of emotional/mental discord. Lol. While I must say I’m proud of how I’ve been able to manage my emotions throughout pregnancy thus far, this 3rd trimester is giving me a run for my money. I’m stuck between basketball and a baby bump; praying for successful and long playoffs and wanting him by my side while I struggle to put on my shoes or make animal noises when I get out of bed to pee a million times.

I know soooo many of you can relate and have gone through a unique pregnancy/delivery process as a WAG. Being a first-timer, I commend you guys!! This is not for the weak. From medical culture-shock to ALL THE PAPERWORK and translations…to being away from your person during pregnancy/delivery…it’s no joke. The stories I’ve heard really showcase the strength it takes to be both a mom and wife/girlfriend in this life and I’m just getting started. WAGS are amongst some of the strongest women I know.

I got back to the States about two weeks ago and taking early April’s blog advice about better managing my mind, body and boundaries during off-season, I’ve been keeping a low profile and slowly easing my way back into life here at home. Def. enjoying the time I’ve spent settling in, seeing family and slowly prepping for baby girl’s arrival. Feels like a lot to get in order and truthfully, I’m blessed to have the village and support system that I have. I just miss him more than anything. He is by far my biggest craving…but….that could also just be me and NOT the hormones. Lol.

Now….

While it’s been amazing to be back, I can’t help but to overthink about wanting my husband back with me as soon as possible AND wanting the best possible playoff success there is this season. It’s a weird headspace to be in. Like I know I’m allowed to 100% want him to myself, especially at a time like this…but I’ve also seen and experienced the sacrifice and the hard work put in to be all that he can be in this game. HE 100% DESERVES TO BE AT THE TOP. He just…also deserves to be celebrated at the baby shower and in the experiences or even photos documenting these moments in time. Some of which need to be scheduled ahead of time but there’s no solid date in place for his return.

The good news is that he’s expected to be back before her due date even with the greatest playoffs outcome, providing she doesn’t try to make an early appearance. I can honestly say though, that I’m beginning to be ok with him just making it home for the birth if nothing else…and that’s absolutely enough. I’m blessed to even have a Summer due date. IYKYK. Lol. Shoutout to my August/September mommies! Ya’ll got this!

But yeah, as the 10 week countdown begins, sleep ends and hips spread, the things that really matter to me financially and emotionally are starting to stand at the forefront. Top 5 things that are sitting at the top of my brain lately (in no particular order)? My husband, a healthy delivery for me and baby girl, ordering my Nuna stroller system, to be heard/advocated for at the hospital and powerful maternity photos to capture the essence of such an amazing experience. Everything else just kind of doesn’t take priority. A shower? Meh. Gifts? Meh. (Truthfully can’t take much with us outside of gift cards).

It's so interesting how in the beginning, I was so determined and eager to find everything I’d need. I was searching and comparing brands for everything, reaching out to all my mom-friends and grandmothers for advice, on Pinterest piecing together shower themes and just on top of it ya know? Now, I find myself wanting naps and shying away from unwarranted advice. There is suddenly zero interest in planning or coordinating much outside of her birth and our postpartum experience. Is this what they call pregnancy brain?

AND FOR HEAVEN’S SAKE…if one more person responds with “well wait til’ the baby gets here” in response to my “I’m well, just tired”…I’m going to unleash all of these pinned up emotions and happily get ice cream after.

Can ya’ll relate? Or is it just me?

P.S- My American doctor says I can eat cold sandwiches. I’ve heard both sides from different sources but I’m sticking to the one that feeds this craving. Ha.

From the court to Labor and delivery,

Your sideline sis,