16 Weeks - I have a belly!

16 Weeks
Get ready for a growth spurt. In the next few weeks, your baby will double his weight and add inches to his length. Right now, he's about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces. His legs are much more developed, his head is more erect than it has been, and his eyes have moved closer to the front of his head. His ears are close to their final position, too. The patterning of his scalp has begun, though his locks aren't recognizable yet. He's even started growing toenails. And there's a lot happening inside as well. For example, his heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as your baby continues to develop.


Well, there's no hiding the belly anymore. My baggy shirts might conceal it a little bit (picture 1), but not for long. And if you catch me after I've eaten lunch or dinner, you will definitley be able to tell. It seems to grow after I eat. (See picture 2) But like Ricky told me, "Stefanie, you're pregnant. Your belly is going to get bigger". I look at pictures of women at 32 and 36 weeks and just can't imagine my belly stretching that much. But it will be here before we know it!

We had our 16 week checkup this morning. Everything went well. My blood pressure was low, I haven't gained much weight, and the baby's heartbeat was strong at 152. We heard it immediately! We go back in 4 weeks for our detailed ultrasound where they will check the organs, spine, placenta, etc. And if the baby cooperates we will be able to tell if we are having a boy or girl! A friend of mine told me to eat a Snickers bar before the appointment so the baby will be very active during the ultrasound. A Snickers for breakfast? No problem!

I'm still jogging 3 times a week and lifting light weights. I walk the dog on the other 4 days. Ricky has started jogging with me. But he's losing weight and I'm gaining. :)

I'm still eating pretty healthy. I'm loving peaches, strawberries, and grapes right now. I have my occasional treat, but I'm still trying to limit my sweets. But now that it's really hot, it's hard to say no to ice cream.

Please feel free to email me anytime. Look forward to seeing you all soon!
sblyons@sc.rr.com