Vacation Preparation – WDW & 7 Months Pregnant

by Megan Edwards

I know it’s important, so I have secured permission for everything I’ve wanted to do from the first doctor’s visit until now.  I’ve run two 10K’s, two half-marathons and now?  I’m going to Walt Disney World!  It’s May and that means hot weather.  I’ll be just 7 weeks from having this baby.  Am I worried?  Nope, not a bit.  I feel fantastic and my doctor seems very happy with how easily and comfortably this gestating thing is going for me.  According to my last doctor’s visit, I’ve gained a total of 18 pounds with firm instructions to gain at least 5 or 6 more.  (Disney food, here I come!)  I’m doing everything I can think of to be ready for all the Disney vacation action since this is our last vacation before we become parents.  Here are the details…

Early Prep –

Keeping Fit – I’ve been walking outdoors and at the gym regularly in order to be ready for those Disney miles.  I’ve also tried to keep my weight gain under control so I won’t have anything unnecessary to carry around.  I’ve never had a problem with the walking involved at Walt Disney World and I am on my feet at work most of the day.  So far, I’ve not experienced any swelling in my feet or ankles…fingers crossed!  I honestly feel great and have lots of energy right now.

60 Days Out –

Flexible Touring Plans – Mom always takes care of our FastPasses and touring plans, but she’s kept me in the loop this time so I know there will be plenty of rest time built-in.  I feel sure I’ll spend at least a couple of afternoons relaxing at our resort so I can make it to the fireworks shows at Magic Kingdom and the Studios.  Been putting off purchasing a swimsuit…guess I’d better get on that.

Park Bag Adjustments – Two things I want to avoid are sunburn and indigestion.  Extra sunscreen and Tums are definitely coming with us to the parks.  Since my Disney Vera Bradley cross-body bag is probably out of the question (I can’t see it fitting on or around this baby bump), I’m going to carry a small, lightweight backpack.  I may see if I can put my stuff in Mom’s park bag if we won’t be out long or there’s no rain in the forecast.  I’ll also carry a water bottle to refill as necessary to stay hydrated.  I’ll need healthy snacks handy too.  Nobody needs to be exposed to me when I get hangry…it’s ugly.

Starting to Pack –

Clothes and Shoes – I’m pretty sure by the time the baby gets here, I’ll want to have a bonfire for my maternity clothes.  Let’s be honest – I want to look cute on vacation!  I also want to be comfortable while not spending too much on clothes I’ll only be wearing for a few months.  I’ve had some luck at a maternity store in our local mall by taking advantage of their buy-one-get-one 1/2 off sales.  I’ve shopped Target and Old Navy both in store and on line for shorts that fit well with plenty of room to spare.

I am worried about my feet (which I can still see, btw).  If I’m ever going to have swollen feet and ankles, I feel like the heat and humidity in Orlando will be the most likely triggers. I’ve heard wearing sneakers (versus sandals) helps minimize swelling, so I’m taking three different pairs. As a backup, if there’s rain in the forecast, I’ll carry some extra footwear like my favorite pair of Chacos in my park bag with my poncho. There’s nothing worse to me than wet shoes and socks, especially if you go into a cold restaurant for dinner.

None of those packing plans may matter.  If I have to, I’ll toss in some shorts and tee shirts and be done with it, because my #1, must-have item is a giant body pillow called a Snoogle.  This pillow is nothing short of a miracle and has allowed me to sleep comfortably since I got it for Christmas.  I sincerely hope Grant has some excess space in his suitcase for my shoes because I am not leaving this pillow at home.Hey there, moms!  If you’ve got any suggestions for me or if I’ve forgotten anything, please leave a comment.