This week, I took the second part of the blood test, which screens for Downs Syndrome, Trisomy 18/13, and spina bifida. I was not thrilled about the screening, and in my heart, I really did not want to do it. When the nurse explained the test to me, I almost cried. My hesitation was due to the fact that there are a lot of false positives and the fact that I would not change anything about my pregnancy if the test indicated a higher chance of these birth defects. I felt like there was no reason to stress out for the remainder of the pregnancy if the test indicated a greater possibility of birth defect. After saying “no” to the test, I changed my mind at the last minute and said “okay”. I guess I felt a little bullied.

The pregnancy belly continues to grow. Being that it is my second pregnancy, my 15 week pregnant belly looks more like a 6 month pregnant belly by the end of the day. Seriously. No exaggerating. Self-esteem-wise, I think I will feel a little better next week when I can say that I am 4 months pregnant.

I am wearing mostly pre-pregnancy shirts with maternity pants. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on the way I look at it), my maternity pants are too big, and I am patiently awaiting a delivery from The Gap and Old Navy. Right now, I am definitely in the “fat” stage.

My growing baby now measures about 4 inches long, crown to rump, and weighs in at about 2 1/2 ounces (about the size of an apple). He/she’s busy moving amniotic fluid through her/his nose and upper respiratory tract, which helps the primitive air sacs in his/her lungs begin to develop. Her/his legs are growing longer than his/her arms now, and she/he can move all of his/her joints and limbs. Although her/his eyelids are still fused shut, he/she can sense light.Source: www.babycenter.com

I purchased a few outfits for our Baby this week. Notice the colors. Yep, quite convinced it is a boy. I am content with either. I think it is a win-win situation either way.

This weeks purchases are in honor of my Dad — the car enthusiast! I am pretty sure my Dad would be thrilled to have a Grandson to share in his passion of cars…. Granted, Tessa is a little gear-head herself. Speaking of the BIG SISTER…. Tessa LOVES her new table. “Loves” may even be an understatement. Tessa spends most of her time either coloring at her table, or putting together puzzles on her table. She even gets to enjoy a few snacks at her table.
And, a picture of Miss Tess when I put her down for her nap a few minutes ago.