April 30th, 2012

Dr. Appointment...Today we had our 18 week appointment.  Our baby girl was very active and making it hard for the technician to take the measurements of her bones, heart, and brain, but in the end we got them all and they were right on target.  We then saw another one of the Doctors at the practice, Dr. Young, and he may be my favorite thus far.  I mentioned that I felt like my belly was measuring large so he checked and I was measuring approx 20 weeks which could either mean excess amniotic fluid or just a result of the way my body carries a baby.  Either way, nothing to worry about. We also discussed my towering height and at what point would they recommend inducing labor or a c-section.  If the baby is in the 70th percentile at 37 weeks we will likely induce at week 38 or 39 so long as her lungs were fully functioning. If the baby is in the 90th percentile, he suggested we consider a c-section, BUT no decision will be made until week 37.

Overall Feeling...I have been feeling a lot better but I am still not used to carrying this extra weight in my belly and it can be uncomfortable at times.  I am trying my best to go to the gym 3 times a week and also walk or do other exercises at home.  My appetite has definitely increased and it's hard finding healthy (low calorie) snacks to get me through the day.  As far as my weight gain, I am within the normal range and the doctor would like me to gain no more than 25 lbs total, but with +/- 20 weeks to go I am not sure if I can achieve his goal. 

Names...well this has been pretty hard to be honest.  There are a few we like, but I don't want to rush into any decision quickly, so this may have to be decided mid-late summer (sorry Shannon!).  Once we are positive, we promise to share. 

Nursery & Gear...at the advice of several friends, I purchased the book Baby Bargains, which provides both consumer and expert advice on what products you must have and which are just nice to have.  The book also gives ratings on the quality of the products and suggests the top picks within each category.  This has been very helpful and also enlightening.  We will likely register at http://www.diapers.com/ whose prices are the lowest I have found and they have free 2 day shipping and everyone knows how much I love that!  However, Ben and I need to go to a local baby store and test out car seats, strollers, carriers, etc before we complete the registry. 

Well that's it for today.  Below is a photo from last friday at 18 weeks.