Week 21

We've entered week 21! Not much to report this week. Below is more information on Ella Grace this week.

At about seven inches in length and almost 11 ounces in weight, Ella Grace is about the size of a large banana. She swallows at least several ounces of amniotic fluid each day — not only for hydration and nutrition, but also to practice swallowing and digesting — skills she will need as soon as she arrives. And keep this in mind: The taste of the amniotic fluid differs from day to day depending on what you've eaten (spicy enchilada one day, sweet carrots another). And that smorgasbord of tastes won't be lost on Ella. That's because she's developed taste buds already. In fact, researchers have noted that babies who were exposed to certain tastes in utero via the amniotic fluid were more eager to eat foods with that same taste after birth.

There's plenty of space for twisting, turning, and even an occasional somersault (so that's what you were feeling last night!). With all that belly dancing going on, it's hard to believe she gets any sleep at all. But believe it or not, Ella Grace sleeps as much as a newborn, perhaps 12 to 14 hours per day! (Now if only you could get some sleep!)

Unfortunately, my doctor says I won't feel baby Ella Grace moving around for another 3 weeks. On the weekends (when I'm not high-strung and stressed out!), I can feel a kick or two here and there, especially after I eat.

I'm feeling great and putting on the pounds. To date, I've gained 12 lbs and weigh the most I've ever weighed in my life! I've got 4.5 more months of weight gain to go. This should get interesting!