This week, I’ve been feeling more bloated, almost like a whale. I pretty much look like one at this point, if I’m being honest. Weird – I’m oddly at peace with how big I’ve gotten. Combined with the foot injury that kept me on my ass for more than a month, I’m being kinder to myself for not being in the best shape. And at this point, as long as the baby is okay, nothing else matters.

That said, I do miss being active. I miss Pilates and weight training and core exercises and yes, even planks. I know I’ll get back to it someday. This is just a temporary part of my life and it will be a distant dream before I know it. Is it weird that I actually enjoy being pregnant? Well, not the first trimester – hell no. Injury aside, this second trimester has been fun getting to know the kid. She’s been kicking way more this week, to the point that it makes me jump sometimes. I can’t wait to see what she looks like, what her personality will be. There will be plenty of time for that in the years to come. For now, I’ll cherish this time of being the closest I ever will be to her.

I had dinner with my friend Ange the other day. She is also pregnant and is due to give birth in October. It was our first time to see each other as both pregnant and we couldn’t help but burst out cackling when we saw each other’s bumps. What a relief to be going on this journey with a friend, who’s been through the wringer before.

My mom turned 70 yesterday and I was sad to miss out on the surprise party that Dad and Vida planned organised for her. She cried when she was surprised and when she was presented with the cookbook we made as her gift. I’m happy she had a party for a milestone birthday with the people she loves. I look forward to having her here in December when the baby comes.