Man's point of view the first 16 weeks

Well, here we are 16 weeks into our first pregnancy. There have been some extraordinary moments over the last nearly 4 months. It's fun to watch how Emily's body has changed and how much fun it's been to talk about having a baby. One of my most "eye-opening" moments was when we went to the doctor for the first time. I know that's probably what everyone thinks because it's the first time you hear the heartbeat, first ultrasound, meeting your doctors and it really makes it real. I will admit, those experience are like nothing you could describe in a blog.

But what did "open my eyes" through that appointment is what women go through on a annual basis when they see their doctors. I have a whole new respect for all the ladies whom see their doctors annually. I can only relate a woman's annual to a physical. A physical for a man is peeing in a cup and "coughing". While the "coughing" is the only humiliating part, it's nothing like what I witnessed at Emily's 11 week appointment. Aside from that, I've only had a physical 2 to 3 times in my life. Never in any of my doctor's appointments did anyone check my pelvis and tell me I would be sore the next day.

From some brief conversations post appointment, I've learned that this is only the beginning. There will be even more "eye-opening" moments throughout these next 23 weeks. I have a lot a respect for all you females and mothers out there. There is a lot you go through that goes unnoticed by the opposite sex until you are bearing their child.

For the record, at the appointment I stayed "above the equator" and plan to stay there all the way through the delivery of our baby.