21 Weeks Along - Progress Report for Mom, Dad, and Baby

So, I am happy (yet somewhat terrified) to report that we are 21 weeks along now in the pregnancy - more than half way there to D-day (aka. DDDDelivery day). I can't believe this pregnancy is moving along so quickly. When it first started out, I thought time was standing still. But now...

We're going to be parents, like, tomorrow. I don't feel ready yet. We are doing a good job of getting things together to prepare for the little guy's arrival. But, as far as making the emotional transition into being a real Mommy - and for the rest of my life? It's not happening this fast is it?? We only have 4 short months left.

While I don't feel very ready psychologically, I do feel like Dad and I are doing a pretty good job getting ready on a practical level. Dad has been helping me do exercises almost every night so that we will be ready for pre-labor, and so that I'll be more fit for the whole process. He encourages me to eat my vegetables, and he goes on walks with me. (VJ isn't here yet, but Dad is really making sure we have a strong family!) I've also been taking yoga every couple of days to try to stay strong and flexible...

Anyway, about VJ's progress. According to babycenter.com our baby is 3/4 of a pound this week, and almost a foot long. He has been kicking, but I barely feel it. I want to say that I've only felt about 8 total HINTS at a kick since last week (and ever). But soon, his kick should be getting more intense and noticeable.

Dad and I have signed up for a Bradley Method class, and we have already attended 2 lessons (weeks) of this 13-week course. I can't say we have learned a lot just yet. The best aspect has been that we spend at least 2.5 hours together each week, just focusing on taking in information about the birth together. It is also reassuring to meet and hear some of the other couples' concerns.

The last class was almost 2 hours on nutrition, which is obviously very important, but the information is pretty much all on line. (The Bradley Method recommends that pregnant women follow the Brewer Diet, so as to avoid premature labor, preeclampsia, toxemia, and general poor development). We got special charts to take home to keep track of our food intakes. I have been trying to follow the guidelines since then, but to be completely honest... it's too much food. I just can't eat as much food as this diet recommends in a day. I feel pretty confident though that I am taking care of the really important stuff - like adequate nutrition from very good quality foods (milk, eggs, veggies, cheeses, etc.)

One thing new and very important that I learned was that the 8th month is the most important when it comes to brain development for the fetus. That was interesting to know....