18 weeks!!!

this week is an exciting one for me, mostly because i have my anatomy scan this week, which consists of a long and detailed ultrasound where the doctor takes a close look to see that our baby is growing and developing appropriately.  it is also followed up by blood work which will be my 2nd trimester genetic testing and the last of it!  we opted to find out early the gender of the baby, but if we didn't it would be at this appointment that we would find out.  my appointment went great!  they confirmed the baby is growing right on track and has all ten fingers and toes, and everything looks perfectly healthy and normal.

this week is  just more of the same symptoms...i can't really complain, i have had it easy so far.  a little round ligament pain, occasional dizziness and i have officially gained my first pound.  the most exciting part as i finish my 18th week is i think i finally started to feel baby kicks!!!  it is only when laying down, you question yourself at first, but from what i have read, i am pretty sure that is what i am feeling.  it feels like a thump to me, but it can also be described as "flutters" or "quickening."  i really haven't had any cravings this week, but chocolate milk and fruit pie does sound good!  my sister in law sent us this adorable package with a few onsies and some cute accessories!  all of the onsies she picked our are perfect, they are so "us."  it was a fun gift to come home to!

weight gain this week = 1 pound
total weight gain = 1 pound

growth milestones for the week...

~baby can yawn, hiccup, suck and swallow
~baby's immune system is developing
~buds for permanent teeth are forming behind the "baby teeth" that are already developed
~big week for the nervous system and brain development!  motor neurons have grown into place so that baby can consciously direct movements.
~nerves are being covered in a fatty substance called "myelin"
~baby's ears are now on the side of the head and the limbs are proportionate to the rest of the body
~unique finger and toe prints are formed

baby is the size of a sweet potato