25 Weeks!

I'll be 25 weeks along on Saturday, which I guess is in my 6th month (thank you, google!). I already feel like a bad mom because I haven't blogged about Baby H in quite a while!

On November 16, I had my big 20 week appointment with the anatomy ultrasound. All of my previous ultrasounds had been done by my doctor or my NP, but this time it was in a special room with an ultrasound tech. They even had a big flat screen tv on the wall to watch the ultrasound, instead of trying to make out the small screen. We listened to his heartbeat, which Jeremy hadn't heard before, so that was exciting. Then she went through and checked out Baby H's organs and bones and stuff. I can't remember everything she looked at, but I know she checked his heart, brain, stomach, kidneys, lungs, leg bones...probably a lot more. I can't say her bedside manner was stellar. Toward the end she confirmed he was {still} a boy and we got to see him moving, which is just the coolest thing! He opened and closed his mouth and moved his hands up near his face. It's crazy how he's like a real little person already. His measurements are right on for an April 3 due date, which is good news. My NP later said everything looked good, and I also found out a blood test they did for several disorders came back perfect, and we are so thankful for a clean bill of health so far!

On Monday I went in for my 24-week appointment, which was just a quick one. They measured me and listened to the heartbeat and I got a packet of information on cord blood banking and the hospital. Apparently they like for you to register at the hospital before 28 weeks, so as of today I am registered. {Yikes.} I also looked into classes and need to get us signed up for some. Next time I go in mid-January I have to do the glucose screening test where I drink the gross juice. I'm really not finicky about food or drinks, so I think I'll be fine, provided I don't wake up already nauseous!

So, I'm feeling well! I still get nauseous every few days but now I have a better idea on when I really need to take my anti-nausea medication to keep from getting sick. It's nothing awful anymore though - I'm thrilled to have an appetite and be able to eat! My back hurts after sitting at my desk all day, but it's nothing a heating pad can't help. Right now I would have to say the biggest pain is sleeping on my side! I hate side-sleeping! Now I've started doubling up pillows and that has helped a lot.

I am shocked at the growing belly. I'll be honest, I didn't start this pregnancy with a flat belly, so I feel like some initial changes people notice I didn't really notice. But then it kept growing. And keeps growing! I have 2 symmetrical stretch marks on my belly. I think they're pretty small...or at least they seem to be from my vantage point. Yes, I am using lotion, but I think if you're going to get them, lotion isn't going to stop it from happening. And I really don't care! It means the baby is growing, so it's good news. That being said about the belly...

This is Baby H at 24 weeks, 3 days. I really didn't think I looked this big... And though it is large, I haven't lost my bellybutton yet. My belly pops out but then it's flat. I can tell my bellybutton is getting shallower and shallower though. Now that is a pretty weird thing!

I feel him moving all the time now, which is an amazing feeling. I think I first felt him a while ago, but his movements are more noticeable and regular now. Jeremy asked if when he moved I felt like we were bonding, which I initially scoffed at. But it's true - it's a really special feeling that only other moms know. I love it! A couple weeks ago, while Jeremy and I were laying in bed, I could really feel his movements were big, so I put Jeremy's hand on my belly to see if he could feel anything. Baby H did not disappoint, and did a big roll around and Jeremy got to feel him! His eyes got so big! He said he might have just thought it was a muscle spasm if I hadn't told him, which is kind of what it feels like right now. Though the next morning I thought he was about to kick me right out of bed, he was kicking so hard! I woke up about 5:30am a few mornings in a row to major kicks. He also helps me be on time for work! Thanks Baby H!

Still no progress on baby names or the nursery. I really don't think I'm that indecisive, I just don't love anything enough yet to commit to. We had a list of about 5 names we liked, but didn't love any one in particular, and then I decided over Thanksgiving I didn't like any of those and I wanted to start over. So start over we have. My goal is to get a couple rooms and closets cleaned out between now and early January and then maybe we can make some real plans for the nursery! Maybe. Maybe we'll have a name by then, too. Maybe.