30 week update

Along: 30 weeks

Size of baby: LBMH is the size of a head of lettuce - 18 inches long and 3.2 pounds. My app says that he'll mostly be adding fat/weight from here on out. Thank goodness, because an inch per week is starting to make for one long baby! Developmentally, he's also working on all five senses and the brain connections needed to perceive them. Pretty cool.

Total Weight Gain: Still about 20 pounds. I seem to have stalled on the weight gain for the last few weeks. At this point, I don't feel like the rest of me looks too different, except for the large belly.

Maternity Clothes: Yes, definitely. My absolute favorite piece of clothing right now are Erik's soccer warm-up pants from high school. They are, by far, the most comfortable thing we have in the house, and I wear them nearly every day (after work, of course).

Gender: It's a BOY! Reed Lewis Hill

Movement: Not only do I notice his movement more regularly, but they are getting much stronger. LBMH is VERY active and likes to kick around near my ribs. So far, I've only felt a few painful jabs. Mostly it just feels and looks like strong muscle spasms or twitches. My favorite thing is to watch Erik's reaction when he feels or sees him move. It's neat to watch him interact with his little boy.

What I miss: A good night's sleep. My body pillow helps a ton, but the days of a full night are pretty well gone (and likely gone for a good long time).

Cravings: I'm still craving turkey sandwiches - can't seem to shake that one. I've also had a few strange ones like applesauce and Raisin Bran. Cereal seems to be a safe bet for breakfast, dinner or a late night snack.

Symptoms: Heartburn is still pretty regular, but that's pretty easy to regulate. I've also had some pain in my lower abdomen this week. It's not constant, and it goes away pretty easily if I rest. I'm guessing it's either my ligaments stretching or maybe Braxton Hicks. Either way, I'm not too concerned. They're just uncomfortable.

Best moment of the week: An unscheduled, productive weekend. It was amazing - no plans, just the freedom to run errands and spend time with Erik. Those weekends are few and far between, it seems.

Looking forward to: Our maternity shoot next weekend. I found a photographer that I'm really excited about, and we're going to take shots at sunset next Sunday. I really think it's going to be gorgeous, as long as the weather cooperates. While I don't feel the most photogenic right now, I know we'll be glad to have this time documented.

One more photo, because my sweet puppy isn't getting as much love on the blog as his brother... Tex is super excited to meet LBMH!