Weeks 33-36 Honeydew

"Baby's senses are continuing to improve -- when light peeks in through your (extremely) stretched belly, those tiny eyelids and irises blink and dilate. And, baby can now recognize and react to different songs... time to start practicing your lullabies! Growth (at least inside your womb) is starting to slow, and you may notice baby descend into your pelvis at the end of the month," (theBump.com).

Anniversary

In response to a request about getting pictures of "real" people on this blog, I decided to post a picture Brian took of me and my belly on our anniversary. I dislike having my picture taken in general, so it makes sense that I haven't posted any of us on this blog yet...

We had just gotten home from a delicious dinner that I could barely eat half of. The view from Stanley and Seafort's is amazing. I can't wait to go back for our next anniversary. I think we will make it a tradition.

Weeks 29-32 Squash

"Baby's energy is surging, thanks to the formation of white fat deposits beneath the skin. (Have those kicks and jabs to the ribs tipped you off yet?) Baby is also settling into sleep and waking cycles, though -- as you've also probably noticed -- they don't necessarily coincide with your own. Also this month, all five senses are finally functional, and the brain and nervous system are going through major developments," (theBump.com)

Weeks 25-28 Eggplant

"Let your spouse put an ear to your belly -- he might be able to pick up baby's heartbeat (no stethoscope required). Inside the womb, the formation of tiny capillaries is giving baby a healthy pink glow. Baby's also soaking up your antibodies, getting the immune system ready for life outside the womb. Eyes are forming, and baby will soon perfect the blink -- perfect for batting those freshly grown lashes." (theBump.com)

Weeks 21-24 - Papaya

From now on the updates will come every month, as my belly continues to grow bigger and bigger each day. "Watch what you say -- baby is now able to hear outside noise from down in the womb. Studies show that baby finds gentle music and your own voice most soothing. That little face is fully formed. And, baby's starting to settle into sleep cycles, snoozing about 12 to 14 hours a day. It shouldn't be hard to figure out when -- just pay attention to those kicks as they start and stop. " (TheBump.com)

Much Needed Vacation

We recently got back from a cruise to the southern/eastern part of the Caribbean. It was so nice to rest and relax before having to head back to work. You get so spoiled on a cruise. We got so used to having someone clean our room and make our meals, we forgot how to take care of ourselves! We can't wait to take another vacation like this in the future. Royal Caribbean's Adventures of the Seas Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Week 20 - Cantaloupe

"Baby's digestive system is busy creating meconium (a tarry black substance made of swallowed amniotic fluid, digestive secretion and dead cells), which will fill the first diaper after birth. And, speaking of the diaper situation... baby's genitals are now fully formed!" (TheBump.com)