23 Weeks

This week, Muffin is the size of a grapefruit (11 inches and over one pound).  He or she is working on developing those lungs - it's a long process - and can hear my voice as well as loud noises from the outside.  Over the next four weeks, the baby will double in size.  So right now he or she has wrinkly skin, but that the baby will fill out soon.  I've been feeling more movement and noticing more kicks and rolls throughout the day.  Eric has been able to feel a few kicks as well.  

This week a few people told me that they noticed my baby bump.  I feel like the bump is noticeably bigger each day, but I'm sure it's not quite that dramatic to everyone else.  (But Eric's facial expressions tell me that he can tell a big difference, too.)  Maternity clothes and loose-fitting dresses are my most comfortable clothing options right now.  I have been trying on clothes each night so I know that my outfit for the following day will fit.  Gavin likes to touch my belly and asks for me to lift up my shirt so he can see it better.  And he talks about Muffin all the time.  He says things like, "Mom, Dad, Muffin - let's play Legos in the living room!"  Or, "I love you, Mom.  And I love you, Dad.  And I love Mia.  And Muffin."  It's absolutely adorable.

Yesterday I had a tiny bit of spotting.  It only happened once and I don't think it was accompanied by any cramping (although I have been achy in my lower back and mid-section the past 2 days).  I haven't noticed any spotting today, so I think it was just one of those things that can happen and is perfectly normal.  My next OB appointment is in 11 days and we have an ultrasound 2 days after that, so I can bring it up then if I have any concerns at that time.