18 weeks

Lots has happened in the last 3 weeks, Little One.  I think you have grown quite a bit, or at least that is what my weekly email and expanding waist line are telling me.  I have definitely "popped" (Pictures to be posted this weekend when I have my camera cord) and my non-stretchy clothes are becoming very uncomfortable.  You're taking up more space :)  But that is a good thing because it means you're growing and that's what we want....we want you to grow into a healthy baby that we'll get to meet in 5 months.  You've also started to cause mommy some discomfort.  I started getting heartburn about 2 weeks ago.  The first time was after a traditional spaghetti dinner.  Since then, it has been at least every other day, sometimes every day.  However, I can't pinpoint what is triggering it...I'll have to ask the doctor if I can take Zantac regularly because that seems to help as does reminding myself that in the end of these 40 (+ or -) weeks I get to meet you!!

In addition, you have kind of put an end to my running, even at a slow pace.  It just doesn't feel comfortable anymore.  I am still trying to get into the gym to lift and have transitioned into walking more.  I am still trying to play tennis, though it has been about a week since I have played.

We have started to get some gifts for you.  So far you have gotten a rocking horse, blanket and a book!  I can't wait to read it to you!!  Your dad and I have talked briefly about your room design, but figure we'll get to that in the next few weeks.  However, your arrival is sneaking up on us!  It is starting to feel very "real".  I have to admit, its kind of scary and at times I feel pretty overwhelmed.  I have a lot of questions running through my head...what kind of mom will I be? will you be a calm baby or one who cries a lot or needs attention? are we really going to be parents?? (the answer is yes, but WOW!)

This past weekend we visited with your grandparents (mommy's mom and dad).  I think you wanted to make sure they saw your impact on mommy's appearance.  Your growth translated in mommy starting to show over the weekend.  It was nice to be able to share that with my family since I am not sure I will see them before you are born.

Also, over the past week or so, I think I have felt you move around in there.  But I wasn't positive until yesterday.  I think you did a flip.  Feeling you move was amazing and what really brings this all into perspective.  (It might also be causing all the overwhelming thoughts!)  I can't wait for your dad to be able to feel it to.  I really want him to be as much a part of this pregnancy as possible.

Until next week, Love you little one!
Mommy