A Dad's "Pregnancy" Project Video Montage

Thankful…for several reasons

It’s day 29 with the belly and I’m counting the hours until I take it off on Sunday. Make no mistake: this baby is going full-term, but no longer. And that's just another way in which my experience differs greatly from that of a true expectant mom. I know when this will be over because I get to choose the time. For moms, nature is in control unless it’s a scheduled c-section, which is no walk in the park. Fortunately, there’s tremendous joy after all the hard work.

It's been an interesting journey, which I’ll reflect more on in subsequent posts. For now, I'd like to thank a few people: namely, my family and, in particular, my wife Michele. The spouse is the person second most affected by pregnancy. And even though I am not really pregnant, Michele has had to deal with the very real side effects. Like having to help me put on the pregnancy suit daily as well as assisting me in preparing for my night’s sleep — often after she had already settled into bed. And though she never mentioned it, I am sure I have woken her up many, many times with my tossing and turning and the crackling of the Velcro that holds this thing attached to my body. Of course, we've had our fun with it, too. Michele, thank you for your support, helpfulness, and insight during this project. You are the person that binds our family together, the mom our children love, and the woman I love. Happy Mother's Day. (And FYI, your present is better than just a peaceful night's sleep).

Grandchild

How do I tell them they're not getting another grandchild?

Metamorphosis

A little over a week ago, I was doing a little complaining and empathizing with moms about some of “pregnancy’s” side effects. Mostly how the inability to get a good night’s sleep was having a ripple effect on the rest of my life.

I'm happy to report that lately I've been sleeping much better. I still wake to turn over, but far less than before. And while I still get up to visit the bathroom, getting back to sleep is easier. Thus, I am less lethargic. My attitude is better. Workouts are more invigorating. In general, I’m more pleasant to be around.

I realized that my body actually seems to be adapting to its newfound format, just like — gulp — a woman’s does. Should I be concerned about what might develop next? :-)

Putting On the Pregnancy Suit

It generally takes me a little over one-minute to put on the pregnancy suit each day. Here's the 17-second version.

Time out for charity

Friday, I attended a charity luncheon sponsored by the Pajama Program, which was honoring several Mothers of the Year. It was nice to focus on something other than my belly. In this case, the cause couldn’t be more worthwhile.

The Pajama Program provides new, warm pajamas and books to children in need — most without parents or stable homes. And while the day’s honorees included celebrities Elizabeth Vargus of ABC News and Tony winner Ellen Burstyn, among others, the stories they shared were not about the rich and famous. They were the same ones you and I have about parenthood and the joys children bring to our lives. Each woman was very clear that her proudest role, regardless of professional achievements, was the role of mother. It was heartwarming and so nice to see celebrities associated with something other than fashion, misbehavior, or some other scandal.

There in support, were numerous other moms, such as Soledad O’Brien, Ivana Trump, and Meredith Vieira. And singer/songwriter, Marc Cohn, made a touching speech introducing his wife, Elizabeth Vargas.

Deep down, moms are moms, no matter what their occupation, reputation, or bank account size. It took an inspiring event such as this one to remind me of that and of the power you all have to do truly great things for the world – beginning with just being great moms to your own kids. Of course, there are always women and children out there who could use your concern and help, should you have any to spare. Here are a few charitable organization that I feel are deserving of your time and attention and urge you to get to know at least one of them:


Pajama Program
Providing new, warm pajamas and books to children in need.

Children's Home Society of New Jersey
Saving children's lives and building healthy families.

Women's Global Fund for Women
Advancing women's rights worldwide.