21 Weeks

This is my belly at 21 weeks. I have had to purchase some maternity clothes because I don't fit into my regular things. I think I am officially out of that awkward stage and people feel safe with congratulating me. I was standing in the bus today during peak traffic when a guy stood up and offered me the seat that is usually reserved for the elderly or pregnant. So I reckon it is starting to look obvious now.

On a side note, I am having problems with my coccyx. It hurts like hell! Sitting for long periods of time or walking long distances aggravates the situation. I'm going to the chiropractor and physiotherapist to see if they can help release pressure on my lower back. For now I have to accept looking silly while sitting on my donut ring at work.

Boy or Girl???

It's a BOY!!!

The 20 week scan was really interesting and by far the most exciting. Not only were we able to confirm the gender of our baby, we also got a detailed overview of his development. It is a blessing to know your child is growing well and that everything looks normal.

We were the first appointment of the morning and the sonographer kindly let us communicate in English. She systematically looked at everything and ended with a search for the "crown jewels". Unfortunately, the little monkey was sleeping and had his legs closed. He had his knees pulled up to his chest and his feet where crossed...kind of like a mini budha. The sonographer started thinking that this may be a little girl. I insisted on knowing for sure! I was SO convinced that this was a boy. She told us to wait outside as she needed to see the next patient. I took this as an opportunity to wake up the sleeping budha and decided to walk around, shake my belly, lie on my side, stand on all fours, etc. Dan was understandably feeling a little embarrassed by my "strange" behaviour but there was NO WAY that I was leaving that place without confirming the gender of my child.

Sure enough, all my crazy movements did the trick! The sonographer did one last check and there it was...the twig-and-berries. Confirmation that our instincts were correct.

We left feeling excited and headed for Spa (Belgium) for a relaxing Easter weekend.

16-18 Weeks

Things have gotten easier but Im still suffering from nausea. I don't spend as much time hugging the toilet which comes as a relief. My belly has starting popping out and I can see that people notice a change. They are too scared to say something though. I suppose Im in that awkward stage where people ask themselves, "is she pregnant or just fat?"

A memorable moment was when I felt the baby move for the first time! I was quietly sitting at my work desk when I suddenly felt these "bubbles" in my lower abdomen. No, it does not feel like gas. This is different and very distinct. I loved it because it reminded me about the "prize" at the end of the road. It puts things into perspective again...which I often need. I cant wait for Dan to feel the baby kick!