18 Weeks and an Update

Our appointment yesterday went well.  There didn't seem to be much of a change from the last time.  Except maybe that the pocket was a little bit wider.  The inner part of my cervix (up near the baby) actually looked more closed last night than it did last time.  However, the outer part almost looked like it had a ribbon of fluid running through it.  Dr. S didn't seemed too concerned about it though, he said that as long as it wasn't close to 2 cm or more it shouldn't be a concern.  He still wants to keep a close eye on me and he still wants to know what the peri says before we do anything further.  He has told me to stay on bed rest at least until after my appt. with the peri on Wednesday.  Bed rest has been interesting. I have finished 3 and a half books and watched a few movies.  I haven't done as much studying as I probably should.  I do have a final next week so I need to get busy on that!! 


How far along: 18 weeks





Size of baby: 5 1/2 inches long (the size of a bell pepper) and he weighs almost 7 ounces. He's busy flexing his arms and legs. His blood vessels are visible through his thin skin, and his ears are now in their final position, although they're still standing out from his head a bit. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around his nerves, a process that will continue for a year after he's born. 



Weight gain: 2 pounds



Maternity clothes: Lately I have just been wearing sweats and pjs but when I do get dressed I wear maternity pants. I am still trying to make use of my regular shirts but do pull out maternity shirts occasionally.



Gender: BOY!!



Movement: I feel more and more every day.  He is really active.  I can't wait until Skeet can feel him move too!



Sleep: Sleep still isn't a problem.  I do toss and turn a lot but I think that interrupts Skeet's sleep more than mine! Poor guy!  I just can't seem to stay on my left side but it is getting better. 



Symptoms:  Round ligament pains, heartburn, and constantly hungry!!



Cravings: Nothing in particular, I still love chocolate milk and well... just chocolate in general but I have always loved that!!



Best moment this week: We got the crib!!!  It is still in it's box and will probably stay that way for another few months but I love that it's here!  Also, yesterday at our appointment we saw a quick glance of our baby boy (who showed us again that he is in fact a boy) and we saw his beautiful hand waving at us.  Avery's hands always looked like they were always in fists in ultrasounds, his looked perfect! I am soo Happy!!! 



What I am looking forward to: Seeing Peanut again tomorrow and finding out what is going on with my body!  Hopefully it's nothing and I can finally get my Thanksgiving decorations down and my Christmas tree up!!