Week 16!

Right now, the baby is about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces. His legs are much more developed, his head is more erect than it has been, and his eyes have moved closer to the front of his head. His ears are close to their final position, too.  The bones that are now in place in his ears means he can probably hear our voices as we talk to each other. While he’s getting used to our voice, the tiny muscles in his body, especially the ones in his back, are gaining strength, so he can straighten out a little more. The patterning of his scalp has begun, though his locks aren't recognizable yet. He's even started growing toenails. And there's a lot happening inside as well. For example, his heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as your baby continues to develop.  And thanks to his developing facial muscles, your baby is capable of making a few expressive frowns and squints, even at this early stage.



I've felt pretty good the last few days.  We left for NY on Thursday night and drove to Thurmont, MD.  It was a good stopping point because my body wasn't enjoying being in the car anymore!  We then woke up first thing on Friday and drove the rest of the way to Endicott.  My body seemed to be ok with this car ride and we got into Endicott at about noon.  We were very excited to be there!  The last time we saw J's parents was when we told them our news which was right around 7 weeks.  I feel like I have gotten huge since then, but no one said anything like that (although they were probably thinking it)! We had a great weekend with family and friends.  We were able to see all of Justin's family and several friends.  It's always hard getting together with everyone in NY especially during holidays because everyone is busy with their own families.  We were also able to get together with some Rosplock's for dinner on Saturday night!
Brinkley had a great time in NY as well.  That dog is sooo spoiled!  She just eats up all the love and attention!  Every morning when I'd get up to feed her, she'd try to go jump into bed with her grandparents...she pretty much succeeded every morning too!  She'd just roll around and LOVE it. 
The trip back to NC was about 10 hours on Monday, but it really wasn't too horrible.  I got in the car and slept from like 9 - 12 and left poor Justin to himself!  Oops!  My back only started to mildly hurt with about an hour and a half left of the trip.  Not too bad at all!  Brinkley was a bigger bum than me and slept for pretty much the whole trip, she was one tired pup!

In closing, here's a cute gift that Gramma Crooks bought the baby...

Only 10 more days til our next appointment...hoping  the baby cooperates so we can find out if it is a boy or girl!!