Dearest Baby,

Although the thought of (my life being turned upside down in ways I cannot fathom and for which I cannot prepare) being a mother terrifies me and makes life uncertain, I feel that you also give me feelings of protection, security and strength. You have been a safeguard to me because cars will slow down and stop for me to (waddle) cross the road. People will open doors, give up their seats, they are also patient and extra kind. At work, I've noticed that no one has gotten angry at me in person since you have been obvious and many more people are very friendly and open up to me about their pregnancy, or their life, or their children. Being pregnant has also bonded me to this entire network of women who have had children before me and who love to share and express their feelings, experiences, support and excitement for you and your unborn child. (I've had the couple of crazies who stop me in the middle of the street and talk for ages about their peculiar thoughts about my child, my size, when I will have the baby, etc.) Thank you for protecting me, my child, and for showing me how sweet and sympathetic strangers can be.