When my pregnancy took focus, there were practical matters that needed my attention — like snacks. I needed snacks with me or my nausea would kick-in and my concentration would wane. I started stashing crackers in my handbag and coat pockets so I’d have access to food at all times. Then later in my pregnancy, I found that having extra underwear close by became a must. I was carrying a baby that liked to dance on my bladder, and there were occasions I couldn’t waddle to the bathroom fast enough.
These were helpful tricks I thought I wouldn’t use after my son was born. I was wrong. I still practice the tips I cultivated when I was a pregnant person — I’ve just made some special modifications to the more recent list. These are the seven ways my pregnancy prepared me for motherhood:
1. Always bring snacks
When I was pregnant, I was constantly hungry. These snacks helped my nausea and kept me from entering a world full of “hanger.” These days, I’ve learned that having snacks around is still the best way to win over school friends and influence potential mom BFF’s. So I’m always prepared to bring out the treats during an afternoon playdate.
2. Know where the bathrooms are located
From the moment I took my first pregnancy test, I never stopped needing the bathroom. Upon entering any public place, I quickly learned where all the restrooms were located. Now I still scope out the bathrooms in case of potty-training emergencies.
3. Elastic waistbands are best
Who needs skinny jeans? While they may be the trendy choice, these fashion-forward pants doesn’t allow me the freedom of movement I need when sitting on the floor stacking Legos, having dance parties, or trying to catch my kid when it’s bath time.
4. Keep comfortable shoes accessible
When I was pregnant, my feet became large and swollen and resembled those of Bilbo Baggins from The Hobbit. I kept roomier flip-flops and other shoes on hand for when my feet needed extra help. Today, I still keep backup comfy shoes for myself, and now for my son too. There’s no telling what swimming pool-sized puddle he might encounter when we’re out on our adventures.
5. Keep extra underwear near
During my pregnancy, extra underwear became a necessity. Laughing, crying, or blinking might move me to reach for that extra pair of underwear I always kept with me. Now that my kid is always with me, I’ve found that carrying backup for both of us is a must — especially for those times my little guy has said, “Mom, I need to find the bathroom. Never mind.”
6. Stay hydrated
I wasn’t the best about drinking water before I became pregnant. I never seemed to be thirsty. Then the baby in my belly made me want to drink all that water in the lake near our house. I started carrying a bottle of water with me and decided it was a good habit to keep up. These days, I carry a water bottle for both my son and myself when out and about.
7. An attitude of gratitude
Pregnancy brought out a massive shift in my perception, because after meeting my son I understood how truly miraculous life was. I try to keep this awareness with me and do my best to pass this one little nugget of wisdom on to my little guy.
It was a great surprise to learn that the needs of my pregnancy have continued to influence my non-pregnant life. I’m happy that the lessons I accumulated there have remained helpful in raising my son — and keeping us dry and hydrated.
