Only 16 weeks left to go!
Baby Tooth is just over 24 weeks today and is about the length of an ear of corn or the size of a cantaloupe, depending on where you read (two totally different items of produce, so I’m having trouble getting an image).
Here’s what Baby Tooth has been up to this week:
- Baby Tooth is growing steadily, having gained about 4 ounces since last week. That puts him at just over a pound.
- His body is filling out proportionally and he’ll soon start to plump up.
- His brain is growing quickly now, and his taste buds are continuing to develop.
- His lungs are developing “branches” of the respiratory “tree” as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help his air sacs inflate once he hits the outside world.
- His skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon.
And here’s what’s been happening with me this past week:
Weight gained: Yesterday was our 24 week appointment, and the doctor told me that I’ve gained 15 pounds so far, which she described as “perfect.” Kinda liked hearing that! Some days, with the amount of food that I take in, it’s crazy to think how it’s not more like 25…I guess the body really does know what it’s doing!
Workouts: The past week was fairly decent…I got in a couple cardio sessions, two yoga sessions (including the one I won’t attempt again anytime soon), a Pilates session, and a go at my 10lb. Slimdown full body workout. As I’m typing this it’s Monday evening…I did the workout Friday morning and I’m still feeling it in my legs. Yowsahs.
Symptoms: Fairly low-key this week:
- Some tightening in the belly on and off, which the doctor said could very well be Braxton Hicks contractions. She said not to worry about them, but to make sure I’m staying hydrated, as that can also be one of the causes of getting them.
- Hunger that comes and goes…one day I’m ravenous, the next day I’m pretty normal.
- Lots of trips to the bathroom, yet never really feeling like I can fully empty my bladder.
Movement: YES! My little guy is a dancing machine…AND, Jay finally got to feel him! Friday night, we were laying in bed reading and I told him he should try to see if he could feel something. Sure enough, he kept up with his kicks! At first, he wasn’t totally sure if he was feeling it, but then Baby Tooth gave him a good one and he knew for sure. It was so, so cool.
Food Aversions: Not too many – hot coffee is still so-so, but iced coffee sounds fantastic. Shrimp still gives me the willies. Other than that, I’m pretty good.
Food Cravings: Mexican, cheeseburgers, yogurt, peanut butter, diet ginger ale, cheese, and chocolate. Maybe one of these days I’ll crave something green and/or healthier.
Sleep: Pretty good! I still wake up at least twice a week, usually to hit up the bathroom, but I’ve been having fairly good luck at getting comfy and falling asleep quickly.
Stretch marks? Nada!
Miss Anything? Pre-pregnancy workouts, wearing regular pants/clothes, and beer. Sorry, it’s true. I do…especially now that warmer weather is on the way!
Fun and/or Interesting Things from the Week: Painting the nursery was fun. It’s starting to look so good, and although we’re holding off on showing it until it’s finished, you can get somewhat of a sneak peek in this week’s photos…
Other fun things from the week? Jay being able to feel Baby Tooth move, and both of us being able to SEE him move at this week’s appointment! As I was lying on the table and we were listening to the sweet sounds of his heartbeat, we could actually see him moving quite a bit. The doctor said she wondered if he had the hiccups(!).
Belly Button in or out? Still in…no signs of that changing anytime soon, as somewhat evidenced in this photo here…
Wedding rings on or off? On.
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy 95% of the time…the other 5% consists of random moodiness and being a total worrywart. My latest worry? Daycare. There is SO much to think about, and so much to look into. I’m at a point right now where I just have no idea how I’m ever going to find someone I’m comfortable enough with and can trust…is this normal? Am I already being overprotective and crazy? I’ve been trying to do a bunch of asking around, but I’m still feeling like I’m at square one. Ohhh, if only my mom would retire early.
New Baby Items: Our new glider and ottoman is here!
Other than that, I can’t think of anything else?
Looking Forward To: Continuing with the nursery, getting the rest of our furniture in, finalizing our registries, and just continuing to experience the growing belly!
Claire @ Flake and Cake says
Aww Courtney I’m so glad to hear that Jay finally got to share some Baby Tooth magic! You look glowing :)
Caitlyn @ City and the Cubicle says
You are such a cute pregnant lady. How great Jay finally got to experience some movement!
chelsey @ clean eating chelsey says
I love the colors you picked for the nursery! I wish any kind of coffee sounded good to me right now!
Katie says
You look so adorable!
So glad Jay got to feel him for the first time, very exciting moment! I know when Mike felt Baby G for the first time he was fascinated, haha! It truly is crazy to have a human growing inside your belly, every day Mike still can’t believe it!
Love the glider, we got a similar one and it is so comfy!
And I still can’t drink hot coffee, has to be iced or a no for me, so weird how pregnancy is!
Audrey @ In Shape Cupcake says
YAY! Glad Jay got to feel the little guy move! Are you two still thinking of names?
Erin says
Love the glider! What brand/model is it?
Courtney says
I’d have to double check later, but I know we got it from Buy Buy Baby and it’s on our registry (aka, the only thing on that one lol)
Erin @Axell's Kitchen says
Ahh you look so cute!!
And you are not being overprotective, just worrying about your little man! Levi is almost a year old and I have never let anyone watch him other than my mom and only spent the night away from him twice because I had to for Stu’s military events! Oh and sending the painting today!
Shari says
How special that Jay finally got to feel the little guy! :)
Lindsay @ Lindsay's List says
you are so adorable!!
Tiff says
Awww, hiccups! I bet that was adorable. You’re looking great mama!
Sam @ Better With Sprinkles says
Looking beautiful Courtney!
Whitney says
I told my mom I wasn’t having kids until she retires….and I’m partially not kidding! :)
Avery @ Southern Belle Living Well says
Sounds like Baby Tooth is right on target! These next 16 weeks are gonna pass by fast, enjoy them!
Elizabeth @ My Neon Running Shoes says
How amazing Jay got to feel him kick! That’s such a special moment :-)
Danica @ It's Progression says
love the pink!
And just like you said, it’s amazing that the body just knows what it’s doing!
Jennifer@knackfornutrition says
Is it weird that I kind of want a glider now? It looks so comfortable! haha!
Courtney says
No way…it’s SUPER comfy!
whitney says
I’m due a day before you and love following your updates as I’m going through a lot of the same things! I think being a worrywart comes with the territory of becoming a mom. I have found myself saying, “Will I be a good mom??” and it wasn’t until the other day that someone said, “Yes, you will because you WANT to be a good mom. That’s really all it takes!” :)
Courtney says
So true!!
Kathryn says
I’m totally going to get sorta TMI for a second on the bathroom thing. With both my kids, once I got around where you are, I had to change my position on the toilet. For example, usually I sit straight up and down, while pregnant I had to actually lean forward (which is hard with the belly). So, if you feel like you aren’t getting everything empty, try changing your position, it might open things up better.
Courtney says
I’ve actually heard that! Haha…thanks for the heads up :)
Steph says
It’s funny that this advice was given! I’m due the same day as you, Courtney, and have been having the same issue. So frustrating! Someone recommended leaning forward and it has helped SO much. File this under “things you never expected about pregnancy” :)
Becky G says
You look so beautiful! (PS- I’m 33 weeks preggers, and earlier on I was informed that ‘diet’ drinks are not the best as the artificial sweeteners can stay in the fetal tissue for a long time. I know we get bombarded with what to do and what not to do, but I didn’t know about that one and I just wanted to let you know so that you can research it and decide what you want to do!!)
Lauren says
It amazes me you’re still working out! Go girl! Haha, at missing beer. Baseball season is here so I can imagine it’s hard for you! You just have to wait 16 weeks…. :-P
Dalis says
Courtney
I had a baby last April and was set to go back in October ( I am teacher and took 1 st quarter off in addition to end of the year leave) and could not do it. Unless you have to work for financial reasons, take at least the 1 st year off. Yes, we have had to cut back with spending but I can’t imagine how I would have missed all of my daughter’s firsts. The bonding in the first year is so special. I have to make my decision about next year, we can take up to 2 years on leave, and it’s still hard. Actually hoping I can go part-time. So, my advice…save save save and stay with your peanut! All the money in the world cannot buy that precious time back:)
Allison says
Gosh Courtney, you just look beautiful and so happy! Glad to hear things are going so well :)
Annie says
I went back to work after 12 weeks. I hired a nanny for three months and then sent to daycare starting at 6 months! It worked out perfectly. Just an idea! You and your bump look adorable! :-)
Taylor says
You are such an adorable little pregnant lady! I love the long tank tops, where did you find them? Daycare was really hard for us too, and we finally found one we love, but with our second boy on the way we can’t afford two there. I’m looking into an in-home daycare or a nanny, but it is stressful. I wish my mom would retire too!
Natalie @ Will Jog For Food says
You look awesome! It’s so exciting for the hubby to feel the baby for the first time. I rarely crave anything healthy either, hehe. Except for maybe fruit and smoothies once in a while ;)
Lindsey says
I love those purple pants! Where did you try those on at? I’m 14 weeks:)
Sue says
Daycare was a nightmare for me (I still remember and it has been 16 years LOL). My husband still reminds me of my almost nervous breakdowns about it too. I remember leaving some places and bursting into tears on the way home saying I was never, ever going to be able to find a good daycare and I was just going to have to quit my job. Luckily my twin sister who had a baby before I did told me that it would all work out and I would know when I found the right person/center. She was right. My daughter went to a home daycare and stayed there until she was old enough to go home by herself. That family became good friends and we still keep in touch. It will work out!! You look so cute by the way!!!
Shel@PeachyPalate says
Food cravings are usually signs of deficiencies or just an extra requirement due to the growing lickle babies needs. I guess magnesium based on the chocolate, cheese and peanut butter! Big cheese cravings are also commonly associated with baby boys! Nuts seeds beans and greens and avocado are great ways to pack in the magnesium!
Amanda Perry @ Sistas of Strength says
You are too cute. I love those purple pants!!!
Kristen @ notsodomesticated says
You look gorgeous, as always! :) And I’m so glad that Jay was able to feel him kick. There’s nothing better! Just wait … you’re going to be in my shoes (due any day now!) before you know it! ;)
Katy @ HaveYouHurd says
Daycare was my most stressful baby to-do for sure. You just have to do what’s best for you guys. There is no right or wrong answer, but you need to be comfortable with whatever you choose. Ask around for suggestions from people you trust and remember, whatever you choose is not permanent, you can always change your mind!
Lauren says
I had my little guy last October and took 4 months off with him. I drove myself insane worrying about daycare and after visiting a bunch decided I just wasn’t ready for that yet so we ended up hiring a nanny. I’m a teacher, so we just hired her until mid-June and then we’ll reevaluate everything next school year. I am so lucky in that I was able to just go back part-time this school year so I don’t miss a whole lot during the day. I found our nanny through word of mouth and so far she has worked out perfectly!
Kelly @ Femme Fitale says
I have been away from the blog scene (reading & writing) for the past 6 weeks after our little guy was born on Valentine’s Day! You look fantastic!!! Totally keep up the light workouts for as long as possible…I did right up until the end, and I truly believe it was what helped me have a fantastic labour experience. Also, I know it’s a little belated, but the whole “Baby Tooth” concept is genius! Great job, girl!
Rachel S. says
You are too cute. I love those colored pants, I wish they had those when I was pregnant. I never had to take off my wedding ring and my belly button never “popped”. I did how ever have to buy bigger shoes for work, but just wider shoes not longer shoes, and my feet went back to normal after wards.
Miranda @ Miranda Runs says
Aw you’re so cute! I can’t wait for Baby Tooth to come :)
Erica @ For the Sake of Cake says
You look so cute!
Lauren @ Confessions of a First Time Mom says
Looking fab! The daycare search *is* so so so stressful. But at least you’re ahead of the game and looking early. Where I live (Toronto), you have to get on wait lists when you’re 6 months pregnant, or else you definitely don’t get a spot. A friend sent me a list of questions to ask daycare providers when I was on the hunt and I found that really helpful. Feel free to be in touch if you want the list. :)
Olviya says
Gosh, you are one gorgeous momma to be!
Jess @ Blonde Ponytail says
Looking fabulous mama! So glad everything is going well and your baby boy is healthy. I’m at 31 weeks and can’t believe how close it is! Yikes!!
Ashley @ My Food N Fitness Diaries says
Your little belly definitely blossomed this past week! You look great Court! :) So glad Jay got to feel your little guy – so special!
Bek @ Crave says
Haha, hopefully the subtle hint goes through to your mum ;) HAha, don’t stress yourself! Love the update thanks :)
Koryn @ High Heels & Healthy Alternatives says
I absolutely LOVE your posts, especially your “Baby Tooth” updates! Always so detailed and SO Exciting! All the best in completing the nursery. And I think it’s completely understandable re: your concern about daycare. The hubster and I are not even pregnant yet and I already have been thinking up ways to get my mom over here when that time comes… lol!
char eats greens says
Love the glider! We have one in a similar colour. When I was pregnant, my hubby felt the baby move a day after I felt her move. So glad it happened sooner than later so he wasn’t missing out! haha
Brenda says
Oh, daycare. I found my son’s babysitter by asking coworkers who were super over-protective of their children who they took their children to when they were infants. This actually worked! My son has been going to his babysitter for about 15 months now, and we couldn’t be happier. He’s one of 4 ‘babies’ under two that she watches. I must also mention that I didn’t secure her as a babysitter until my son was already 2 weeks old!
Holly says
I don’t know about prices up there, but one of the big things with daycare down here was the price. It’s INSANE! part of why I decided to stay home. It was like I would be working to pay for daycare (not completely, but you get the idea) and I would much rather be home with her, than working to send her to daycare.
I hope you can convince your Mom to retire :D That would be absolutely PERFECT! Does she work everyday? Could she do some days? And then a Nanny for the others?
Angie says
My husband got me the exact same glider and ottoman! Even though I have a few more weeks until my baby arrives, I already love sitting in it.
Andrea says
Wow, I can’t imagine going back to work so soon after baby! In Canada the norm is one year of maternity leave!