18 Weeks

How far along? 18 weeks 
Size: Bell pepper (or sweet potato, or large mango - depending on what site you read) 
Maternity clothes? A few maternity shirts and the same pants. This weekend I would like to pick up more shirts since I definitely need them at this point. I wore a regular sweater to work earlier in the week and looked lumpy and frumpy. Before I got pregnant I envisioned wearing a lot of pieces in my closet that I thought would work - but they just don't fit right (even loose tops that I thought I could belt). Dresses are comfortable since I don't have to worry about pulling up pants or adjusting my shirt - so happy it's almost spring!

Before work on Tuesday (17.5 weeks)

Symptoms: Lots of growing this week. I feel round ligament pain throughout the day and night which is uncomfortable, but reassuring. My balance and coordination seems to be off and I am the clumsiest person right now, it's ridiculous. I dropped by phone, twisted my ankle, and fell straight into my car all in about 3 seconds yesterday (haha). If I saw someone do the things I've been doing I would think they have an issue going on! I can't even get dressed in the morning without almost falling over or running into a door. Also, I get short of breath and fuller faster. Lots of changes this week and overall a little more uncomfortable than past weeks!

Nursery-to-be

Sleep: I have been having the strangest dreams this week. When I wake up I feel like I can remember at least three weird dreams from the night. The baby in my dreams is a girl. Also, the round ligament pain has been uncomfortable and wakes me up occasionally. I wake up sore and assured that there is a baby growing in there.
Best moment this week: Settling into our new space - we love it so far! On Sunday we sorted through a bunch of boxes and threw out things we didn't want to save anymore. I can't stand having stuff laying around that we don't use and it feels nice to be clutter free. I still have a few items to hang on the walls.
 
Worst moment of the week: Can moving be the best and worst thing? I hate actually picking stuff up and moving it - hah!
Have you told family and friends: Yes! I am getting strange looks at work - but still, no one who doesn't know has commented :)
Miss anything? On Friday when I was moving by myself, I wanted a margarita. I wouldn't say I miss alcohol on the regular (or at all, really), but after a hard/tired day this mama wanted a break.
Movement: Yes! All day Tuesday I had been feeling like there was something going on in there and attributed it to the baby going through a growth spurt (which he/she is). Around 9pm I lay on the ground to stretch out and immediately I felt kicks/punches on my left side! Robert put his hand on my stomach and he felt them as well. I was shocked since I didn't think he would be able to feel them yet, but he definitely did. Around 3:30am (Wednesday) I woke up to him/her rolling around in there. It felt like somersaults, but I have no idea what he/she was doing! Since then he/she has been doing flips on the daily.

Wonder what she knows

Food cravings: Nothing specific
Anything making you queasy or sick: Spinach/mixed greens
Have you started to show yet: Yes! I am now waking up with a big bump. It still gets bigger in the afternoons - but I no longer wake up wondering where my baby went. 

My Gender prediction: With all of these girl dreams I am beginning to question my initial thoughts on a boy. I cannot wait to find out!
Labor signs: No
Belly Button in or out? In
Wedding rings on or off? On
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy! I have my moody times - but I would say it's more emotional (not angry or anything). Sensitive pregnant girl over here.
Looking forward to: My birthday this weekend - Robert's  parents are coming up on Saturday for a visit. Also, Robert invited a few close friends to Menlo for a birthday brunch on Sunday. Can't wait!

Baby A, size of a bell pepper

What's the baby up to? 

• The fetus is now 6 inches long and weighs 7 ounces.
• They can hear sounds and may be startled by loud noises.
• Recognizable active and rest periods.

Tiny air sacs called alveoli begin to form in lungs and the vocal chords are formed. Baby goes through the motions of crying but without air doesn't make a sound; yet (aww). 
Your baby may have the same awake and sleep patterns of a newborn. Baby will have a favorite position for sleep and recognizable active and rest periods (growing quick!).