"Every Pregnancy is Different"

I keep hearing this, whenever I talk to anyone about the impending arrival of Baby #2. It's true, though, a cliche I'm happy to embrace.

How it's been different, so far:

1) I look different, with a belly that points straight out, that you can balance a tray of cookies and tea on. First time around, I got round everywhere.

2) My commute to work is practically non-existent. I don't have to drive to a subway station, then board two subway trains, praying that someone will take pity on poor ol' me and offer a seat. I don't have to suffer the insensitivity of certain non-pregnant office co-workers who (deep inhalation at the sight of me) say things like, "Whoa! What happened? Are you going to give birth today?"

3) I eat differently and with less guilt. This also relates to spending a lot less time with uber-thin "career women".

4) While there's a great deal of uncertainty surrounding any pregnancy, I know better than to fret about every little thing, like how many times a day I need to use the can.

5) And lastly, it's different this time around because I have a little girl who not only gives me extra hugs but also hugs and kisses my belly in a genuine way, reminding me that this baby is not just mine, but our whole family's to take care of, a lesson that took me a while to figure out the first time around.