Tuesday, October 20, 2009

28 Weeks and Hospital Class

We have officially decided on the name Parker Andrew Stant.

By this week, Parker weighs around two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of his head to his heels. He can blink his eyes, which now sport lashes. With his eyesight developing, he may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. He's also developing billions of neurons in his brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

On Sunday, we went to St. Joe's for a 'Prepared Child Birth' class. It was actually very informative and fun! We learned so many coping techniques and options we have when its time to go to the hospital. I got a lot of back rubs, which was AMAZING! Thanks Gordon! I feel so much better about going into labor. Next up we have what is called the 'Baby Business Tour' where we register for the hospital, social security number and birth certificate. As well as touring the Labor and Delivery unit. This will take place sometime in November.

We went for the 28 week check up on Monday. They measured my uterus and it was 29 inches which would indicate that I might be a week farther along than we originally thought, although it could just be a large baby (go figure). Other than that things are looking great and the Dr. is happy about how we are progressing through this pregnancy.

Next appointment is November 24th, 32 week check up

I hope to post belly pictures soon! Stay posted!

Monday, October 12, 2009

Weeks 26 and 27

26 Weeks-
The network of nerves in the baby's ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. He may now be able to hear both my voice and Gordon's as we chat with each other. He's inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when he's born and takes that first gulp of air. And he's continuing to put on baby fat. He now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches (an English hothouse cucumber) from head to heel.

27 Weeks-
This week, our baby weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14 1/2 inches long with his legs extended. He's sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing his eyes, and perhaps even sucking his fingers. With more brain tissue developing, Parker's brain is very active now. While his lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if he were to be born now. Chalking up any tiny rhythmic movements I am feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and they don't bother him.

My belly is sure growing, I feel like it is twice the size it was the day before. Its getting heavy too! He is finding his way up to my ribs every once in awhile, not too painful yet. I feel him moving all the time but as soon as anyone else trys to feel he stops moving or goes somewhere else. I am still feeling great, getting tired more often, a daily nap is a must and in bed by 9:00. No weird cravings really, except when I want something I must have it, for example a Wendy's Frosty! This weekend we are taking our hospital class at St. Joesph's (where I am delivering). Hope it goes well. I'll let you know how it goes!
Thanks for reading!