Kryptonite

This week, at 20 weeks, we're officially half way through the pregnancy! It's gone by pretty fast and we're very excited to find out whether the baby is a boy or a girl next week. We've received all the baby furniture and have the room ready to be filled with trucks or dolls. I thought it might be fun to do a poll and see what everyone thinks it might be:

Poll results: 3 votes trucks
Poll results: 9 votes Dolls

There are lots of changes that happen with your emotions and body when you're pregnant. I don't think I could have anticipated the way I would feel emotionally or physically. Emotionally, I'm a little more sensitive. I get my feelings hurt more easily. I get teary eyed at anything sentimental. It feels a little silly, but I can't help it. Physically, this baby is my kryptonite. I used to do anything I wanted for any length of time. Now, I'm tired from just doing normal things like vacuuming or walking the dog. I had intended to exercise (and even purchased a pregnancy workout DVD, Gaiam Summer Sanders' Prenatal Workout), but I'm too tired to do anything but small exercises and stretches. I also sunburn easily now and have to use sunscreen (like normal white people). My lower back hurts when I lay or stand and I use ice, chiropractic adjustments or hot baths and they seem to help. The arches of my feet get swollen and hurt when I'm on my feet too long. I purchased some Dr. Scholls Customized Inserts which do seem to help a little, but are tough to wear with flip flops. Overall, though I feel pretty good most of time, I'm definitely a weaker version of myself.

Belly news:
My belly is growing and the piercing that looked so cute when I was 18 has moved outside my belly button (which has not popped out, but is definitely more shallow). I'm also developing a faint linea negra that runs up to my belly button and peach fuzz is covering my belly as well. I'm starting to feel him/her move undeniably now. It's surprising how strong the kicks are! I'm not sure if he/she is big enough now that the anterior placenta doesn't buffer the movements or if the placenta has migrated out of the way. Either way it's exciting to finally feel baby moving! My sweet tooth is in full force right now. I'm not sure if I've gained much weight since my last Dr's appt, but I don't see how I wouldn't eating sweets like I do everyday. I'll be sure to get some new belly pics up next week with our fun news!

Baby's digestive system is busy creating meconium (a tarry black substance made of swallowed amniotic fluid, digestive secretion and dead cells), which will fill the first diaper after birth. And, speaking of the diaper situation... baby's genitals are now fully formed!