Now that I’m almost half way through my second pregnancy, I’m starting to get a substantial belly. And I’m also starting to realize that carrying that belly around in 90+ degree weather isn’t going to be awesome. My first daughter was born in February, so I was spared being huge during the unbearable Texas summer months. I have no idea how to weather the weather this time around, but I figure it’s time to throw together a strategy so that I can survive.
Maxi dresses. Let’s face it. Pants aren’t really fun ever, but they are really not fun when you are pregnant, and really REALLY not fun when you are pregnant and it’s a billion degrees outside. I’m pretty sure my summer uniform will consist of a couple of go-to maxi dresses, like this one from Motherhood Maternity. They are easy, comfortable, cute, and hide swollen legs and ankles. Win!
H2O. It’s no secret that staying hydrated is important during pregnancy no matter what time of year you’re with child, but extra important during those summer months when you’re sweating profusely. I’ve found that drinking lots of water during the day lessens my morning sickness symptoms, swelling and general aches and pains. According to BabyCenter, pregnant gals should aim for eight 8-ounce glasses per day (64 fluid ounces) of fluid, plus one 8-ounce cup for each hour of light activity. To force myself to stick to this rule, I’ve been BFFs with my water bottle — carrying it around with me all day helps me to remember to fill it up and keep drinking.
A baby pool. Did I mention that my daughter is obsessed with water right now? We don’t have a full-size pool or regular access to one, so a baby pool for our house is no brainer. But, my not-so-secret plan is to get one big enough for me to lay in as well. What better way to stay cool while the wee one plays than to actually submerge my pregnant self in the pool with her? Hilarity is sure to ensue.
Mocktails. It seems like all of my friends are raving about how delicious and perfect for summer Deep Eddy Ruby Red Vodka is, and I must admit I am jealous of their cocktail deliciousness. That is why I’m gathering as many yummy mocktail recipes as I can so that I can still enjoy a little treat at summer gatherings. This pink grapefruit and basil concoction might be the perfect way to curb my jealousy.
Being nocturnal. No matter how hot it is during the day in the ATX, it’s always a little more tolerable when the sun goes down. Luckily there are plenty of fun, family-friendly activities to get involved in after hours in our lovely city — Blues on the Green and Trailer Food Tuesday, to name a few. I plan to take full advantage of all of the Austin fun there is to be had this summer when the sun is not blazing!
For more ideas about summer pregnancy survival techniques, follow my Summer Pregnancy Survival board on Pinterest. And, if you are/have been pregnant during the summer, tell me how you survived in the comments!
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