Written by Shalon Weddington

Weddington speaks about her pregnancy and the first year of her child’s life. She shares tips learnt along the way, tips which are useful not only because she is a nurse by profession, but more importantly because she now has time to reflect on what really happened. She has 16 chapters as she goes a month at a time.

Using an easy straightforward, graphic style, Weddington begins in Chapter Two from the day she realized she was pregnant. From all the stories we hear this first trimester can be the bring- it -on or the break- it- off test in so many ways. Technically we begin to form the child we will have, emotionally and physically.

Having read through I agree with Shaldon that on the second reading, “read it as your baby grows”. The reason is simple as that is when the detailed information being shared, becomes very real. In reflecting on chapter 5, the delivery, I am not sure I appreciated the language choices but then that’s just me. The important thing is that the chapter really prepares the reader for the life-changing event. You might well be surprised at her Confession #19 which is a critical outcome of the motherhood process.

One other thing, using the chapter titles will definitely help with how the book is read. There is a lot to be learnt. There is another chapter which stands out for me and that is Chapter 8 of the 16 chapters…Four months ….This is really four months since birth and 9 months of pregnancy. This period is one of creating and managing a new lifestyle, managing taxing new relationships and most of all, a period of mixed personal self-knowledge.

There are many articles about this time which Weddington reflects on as “My life is hard now, but it is also FULL and RICH”. This is a peculiar phenomenon that only persons who have lasted through a pregnancy and a year after birth can understand. As usual, Shaldon describes her daily routine and daily life challenges. Her comparison between “ME Single” and “ME as a Parent” is revealing.

The book shares insights and knowledge gained along her journey of motherhood. Her personal journey. I think this record will serve not only readers, but also herself and her partner, as they grow even more steadfastly together.

Weddington is a Reedsy author