Giving thanks

I mentioned in my last post that I am definitely getting bigger. Earlier this week I was going through my closet trying to find shirts that are long enough that I might still be able to wear for the next month or so. I did buy a couple of things for myself early on, but that was just 2 tops, a lightweight sweater and some belly bands (spandex tubes) to extend the life of my pants.

I thought that I would wear the belly bands for much longer. They seemed like an ingenious idea. But, for me, they just weren’t that comfortable after I got to a certain size. The zipper and buttons from my pants would dig in a bit, and it just began to feel like a losing battle. My mother and father in-law visited about a month ago, and on one of the afternoons that they were out and about they came back with some new clothes for me. Two pairs of dress pants for work and a nice top. I was so appreciative. Also, a friend recently gave me a pair of her old maternity jeans, which was so nice. My mom also sent me a nice maternity top that could be worn to work. With these things I had a few formal outfits for my day job and could piece together a couple of outfits for daily life, but in the last few days I began to realize that I needed some more options. I really didn’t have many things that felt like “me” that I could wear for any occasion. I was beginning to feel like I was going to have to bite the bullet and go shopping again.

Then the postman came this morning and delivered a big box to my door. I opened it up and it was like Christmas, Chanukah and my birthday all rolled up into one. A former co-worker had mentioned weeks ago that she might send me some of her old maternity things, if I was interested. I said I would appreciate anything she could share. The box was FILLED with amazing adorable clothes that fit, including a winter coat–something I was definitely thinking about having to buy! The clothes are all very ME, cute and fun. The style is perfect. I am so thankful to have these lovely things. We run on a very tight budget, these wonderful hand-me-downs are so appreciated. She is getting a huge hug the next time I see her, as well as an amazing thank you card.

Recently we have been blessed with this kind of generosity. Friends and family have begun to reach out to us and send along things that we might need. Thanksgiving is here and I am so very thankful for all the wonderful people in my life. They have been so supportive of Chad and I and the new family that we are creating. I’m also thankful for my amazing husband. He has been wonderful and understanding and awesome. I can’t wait to see him as a dad. I know he’s going to be the best dad ever.

On this Thanksgiving I raise my glass of cranberry juice and seltzer water to all of my family and friends. The outpouring of love and support has been immense and so very much appreciated. Thank you.