New Year, New Life
As December comes to a close, I can hardly believe how quickly this year has done by. A lot of changes have happened in my life, and though there is much to look forward to in the new year, I have also gone through many ups and downs this past year.
In February, shortly after my husband reenlisted for the third time, we learned he would be going on his first overseas assignment to South Korea. It took me a long time to decide whether I wanted to stay in the U.S. while he did an unaccompanied tour or whether I should go with him and spend two years living overseas. I had a difficult time making the decision, weighing the pros and cons, but eventually we decided that it was better to stay behind so we could get the year out of the way.
We’re currently 35% of the way through this separation, and it’s been tougher in ways I wasn’t contemplating, especially because something happened that neither of us were completely expecting.
At the end of June, I found out we’re expecting our first child. We’ve kept this part of our lives very quiet, and until now, only our family and a few friends knew. I was hesitant to share this with you readers because though I do write about my life and experiences as the spouse of a service member, I still find that some things are meant to be private. I’m not one who likes to be the center of attention, and having a child is something that puts you front and center in many conversations and situations.
Since I’m less than two months from my due date, it’s time to share the news. My husband will be coming home on mid-tour leave for the birth of our son, and hopefully our little one decides to appear close to my due date so we have lots of time together as a new family.
My pregnancy has had some challenges. Like many women, I had morning sickness (any time of day sickness really) from about week 6 until week 14. My biggest battles have been dealing with sciatica and acid reflux. Though throwing up constantly for two months wasn’t fun, I was happy that I was able to move past it, especially after being allowed to get back on my prescribed medication for reflux. As the baby has gotten bigger, my sciatic nerve being pinched has been more difficult to deal with. It makes being on my feet or even sitting too long very painful. Hopefully it will ease up a lot more once he arrives.
Though I do feel a considerable trepidation for all the changes that are happening, especially without my husband being able to be with me for very long, I hope I’ll find the transition to becoming a mom one that isn’t too overwhelming. I’m excited and nervous for how much my life is going to change in the next few months and even weeks. I know I’ve gone through many challenges being the spouse of a service member, and I think this time of my life will be no exception. I’ve learned resilience, and I hope that this is one of those times I’ll be able to draw on that strength.
Have you ever gone through a deployment while expecting a baby? How did you cope? What advice would you give a new parent going through a similar situation? Sound off in the comments below!
