Phyllis Kiiru – My little ‘overhauler’
Every mother goes through a number of changes when they are expectant. What have your major ones been?
My eating habits have definitely changed. In my first trimester, my appetite took such a downward turn that I was worried about my baby not getting enough nutrients. I also had some major cravings for sugarcane and fatty nyama choma. Just a whiff of the roast meat would drive me crazy in wanting. My husband once had to get roasted meat at night to help calm me.
What about your social scene?
My social life has changed a lot. I used to love going out- to the dancing scene. My husband and I spent any chance we got out of town game watching or just to be in natural settings. Our last visit was to Samburu. We were planning on going to the Mara, but well, pregnancy set in. My friends now have to visit me or work around my convenience- unlike it was before this.
Has your professional quarter been affected?
Yes. I am not as agile as I was before the pregnancy, but that has made me learn the art of delegation.
And do you have those moments you would erase?
Limited travel, insufficient sleep, hormonal changes, and forgetfulness. I miss sleeping on my belly, now that I have to sleep on my side. It is very uncomfortable. I have also become quite impatient, something I try very hard to avoid. As for forgetfulness, towards the end of my second trimester, I almost missed a flight. Then, I once forgot the PIN of my credit card when I was about to withdraw some cash. I was so frustrated that I started crying at the ATM machine. Into my third trimester, I missed a step and tumbled down the stairs at my house. I remember not even caring if I was hurt; all I wanted to know was that the baby was fine. So I kept talking to him/her massaging my belly before I got to hospital. Thankfully, the scans, heartbeat check and other procedures certified that the baby was fine.
Aha Moments?
My grandest moment was when the baby kicked for the first time. It was a small flutter but I knew it was a kick! I was so excited that I called my family and friends. My husband was wide eyed with excitement when the baby kicked him for the first time. I wish I had captured that moment on camera!
The d-day is looming in the horizon. What are you doing to have it is easier?
I’m reading a lot of parenting literature. I am attending child birth classes and frequently discuss with my mum the dos and don’ts of pregnancy.
What about the grand name?
We already have baby names for both boy and girl-now that we do not know the baby’s gender yet. My husband and I decided to pick Biblical first names that depict strong character.
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