21 Weeks

What’s Will up to? He’s about 10.51 inches long and 12.70 ounces. About the length of leek. A lot is going on for Baby this week. Fat, for one thing. The little guy is finally putting on some chub, a process that will continue for the rest of gestation. With fat underneath it, his skin no longer looks so translucent. His fingernails cover the nail beds completely (and may even need cutting when he's born!) and his eyelids and eyebrows are fully formed. But it's his brain development that's really taking off: This week, the sensory neurons (the nerves that communicate the sense of touch) are starting to connect to the brain, so the baby is beginning to feel touch. Touch is one of the most important senses at birth and the sensory neurons will continue to hook up to the brain for the rest of the pregnancy. Researchers believe that those nonstop kicks and all that squirming help to program the brain. I certainly am feeling those kicks this week – each day they feel stronger and stronger and I LOVE EVERY SINGLE KICK!

Appointment: My appointment was on 2.22.12 with my Peri. There were no changes since I was released from the hospital on Friday morning so that is GREAT news! I am looking forward to next week’s appointment – I will have another level 2 ultrasound to look closer at Will’s heart and other organ progress. Praying that the small hole in his heart has closed.

Bed Rest: I am quite sore this week. I have been spending most of my time on my sides to help reduce the amount of contractions, I usually have at least 1 per hour. I spent a lot of time finding a bedding set for Will’s nursery. Chris and I finally agreed on one, can't wait to decorate this spring.

Highlights: Not related to my pregnancy but my cousin Amber had her baby this week. Getting to hear about her experience and seeing pictures of her little girl was definitely a highlight this week! Also, that there was no change with me.

My body: I am up 12 pounds total and my tummy has grown 11” total.

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.

Jeremiah 29:11-13