First, thank you for all your prayers, kind words, and tangible help you've already offered my family following the news about Baby Sheaff #4. We are grateful beyond words. We began the St. Jude Novena last week, and we would be honored if you'd join us. It is a short prayer said once daily for nine days in a row. You can find it here.
Since this is the 4th time in five years that I've been in the thick of first trimester nausea/exhaustion, I've learned a couple tricks that I know help (but that my stubborn self doesn't always implement). Before getting to some Practical Survival Tips, I think it's important to mention some words I wrote yesterday – which discuss the Most Important Thing first trimester is trying to teach me. You can read that here.
Ready for the Practical Survival Tips? My necessary disclaimer is that every pregnancy is different, so take what works and leave the rest :) I don't get hyperemesis gravidarum, but I do experience all-day nausea, fatigue, and migraines.
Food is definitely the trickiest part of first trimester for me. I have to eat every 2 hours or else my nausea intensifies, but if I don't get 100+ grams of protein a day my stomach feels so unsettled that I start throwing up even more. All I want to reach for is quick carbs like crackers and cookies and cakes and ice cream, but I know that will merely provide temporary relief.
Constantly having to think about my next quick source of protein, and whether I'll be able to choke it down (my go-to this pregnancy has been hard-boiled eggs and yellow cheese sticks lol) was mentally exhausting, so I finally tried something new: I got an affordable ready-made delivery service for a couple weeks.
Looking to build a customized skincare routine as we head into the dry winter months? For a complimentary skincare and/or makeup consultation for holistic beauty recommendations, just reply MATCH to this email – it is my joy to help! Plus I'll send you an exclusive coupon and all the best deals happening this weekend.
Is there anything you would add to the list? I'd love to hear what has helped you in the first trimester – just reply to this email to share your thoughts!
As always, thank you for being here! I hope you have a wonderful rest of your week. Please know that my family prays for you every night - and if you have any specific prayer intentions for us this month, please share them with me!