18 weeks.

Dear little one,

    I am now 18 weeks pregnant! Though, technically we are measuring about a week ahead. So really, I am just about 19 weeks. But unless the doctor changes the due date at my next ultrasound, we are going to stick with 18 weeks for now! Speaking of which, my next ultrasound is in less than 3 weeks, right after we get home from our honeymoon. At that ultrasound, we should be able to find out if you are a boy or a girl!!! Please cooperate and don't cross your legs! I cannot wait. I want to shop and plan for you, and quit having to say he/she. Mostly, I want to see you. You are/will be soo much bigger than the last time we got to see you. You'll look like a realy baby and be doing a lot more! I just can't wait. Time is crawling by.

    Then again, sometimes it seems to be going by SO fast. You are already about the size of a bell pepper!! Your ears are in their final position, and you're developing a protective coating around your nerves. Your blood vessels are hard at work, and are still visible through your skin. You are getting a work out in there, flexing your arms and legs. Practicing your own little kickboxing routine! I have felt you more regularly now. I feel you everyday!! The kicks have gotten much bigger and more noticeable. You're even kicking me right now as I write this!! I've even felt you flip a few times, which is a very strange sensation(but awesome none the less!).
 
    The other day, I was out with your Aunt Maddi. She pointed out that you were on the right side of my stomach. I looked down, and she was right! I could SEE that one side of my tummy was bigger than the other. It was so strange. She pushed on that side to get you to kick later on, and I literally felt you swim on over to the other side. It was the craziest feeling!!! I have felt you kick with my hand once, but you have yet to kick hard enough for anyone else to feel just yet. Your Dad is dying to feel you! We know you will when you're big enough and ready, though. I already know that you love him. Last night as we were laying down, your Daddy had already fallen asleep. He put his hand on my stomach, and you immediately began to kick right where his hand was! It wasn't hard enough to feel from the outside, but it made me tear up. It was like you knew he was there, and wanted to say hello. When I told him, he was so excited. It really was amazing.

    We both love you SO much already! :)

Love,

Your Mama.