Week 16

Yes, week 16 is here already! I can't believe it! Here are the most recent pictures of my ever-expanding belly. Notice in the background our first Christmas tree! It's a douglas fir and smells terrific!

I think I seem to be expanding sideways more than forward, but I'm sure that will change in the coming weeks.

How baby is growing this week: At 4 1/2 inches long (head to bottom) and 3 1/2 ounces, baby is about the size of an avocado. In the next three weeks, baby will go through a tremendous growth spurt, though, doubling weight and adding inches in length (whoa!). Baby's lower limbs are much more developed now. His or her head is more erect than it has been, and the eyes have moved toward the front of the head. Baby's ears are close to their final position, too. Some of the more advanced body systems are working, including the circulatory system and urinary tract. Baby's heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, circulating his or her total blood volume through the body many times. (By the end of this pregnancy, the blood volume will increase to about 190 quarts!) The patterning of baby's scalp has begun, though the hair isn't recognizable yet. Although closed, baby's eyes are moving (slowly) and toenails have even started growing.

A big benefit of being pregnant during the holidays....lots of great food to be had!!!