u/Logicalidiot

Hello everyone!

I’m very early into my pregnancy (few weeks at most) and it looks like I’ll be getting an offer for a hybrid role at a legal aid office very soon. There is an 1 hour commute. I chose this office because the staff are super kind and helpful and there will be a lot of mentorship and guidance. (I worked here during law school). For example, I will act as co counsel on cases before getting my own.

I’m thinking about how I can prepare myself for this new chapter ahead.

I like the idea of having a survival bag when I’m working from the office. Perhaps some ginger chews, snacks, and other items that could help ease pregnancy symptoms.

And of course I won’t qualify for FMLA once the baby comes…. I have not mentioned the pregnancy yet. I interviewed a few weeks ago and found out I was expecting a few days ago.

Besides that, i’m looking for general advice about how to survive this period. Thank you!

Assuming I get a job offer, I would not qualify for FMLA due to not working there for a year. Is there anything else available for me maternity leave wise?

I haven’t had my first appointment my OB yet to confirm the pregnancy and probably won’t for a few weeks. I believe I’m 2/3 weeks at this point.

The job posting said they do offer short term and long term disability. This is a union position as well.

My partner (M28) and I have been together for almost three years and have lived together for about 2. Some nights I just like to fall asleep on the couch to the tv or a podcast. My partner is strict on the no screens in the bedroom. I grew up with a small boxy tv in my bedroom so I grew up falling asleep to shows or movies. My partner mentioned that he sleeps better with me next to him. I don’t really feel that same way. I feel self conscious like something is wrong with me though.

Just curious if anyone has experience with this.

I remember going a couple times in elementary school but that was it. I went by myself when I was 18. Thankfully I had cavities but nothing major. This was years ago.

I don’t mean orthodontic treatment like braces. My parents couldn’t afford that for three kids. I’m talking about routine cleanings.

In my late 20s I got myself Invisalign.

I am left with a deeply rooted feeling of self hatred from a childhood of emotional neglect. I want to love myself. Or at least like myself…. But it is easier said than done for me.

I’ve tried writing down three things I like about myself everyday but I can never stick to it. Looking for other ideas!