18 Weeks Pregnant {Sweet Potato}

The little "sweet potato" has made it to 18 weeks!  It's about 5.6 inches and weighs about 6.7 oz.

• I went for a walk down a steep hill...and then of course to get back, up a STEEP hill.  This was really hard for me, I could feel a sharp discomfort in my chest and my body struggled most of the way.  The next day, I had lower back pain for a few hours when I woke up, that shot down my leg also.  I iced it when I got to work.  I'm betting I bothered a pinched nerve that I got when painting a fence a few months ago.  Just great...I'm sure this nerve will only get worse as I grow bigger.  Oh what fun to come.
• I've started applying Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula to my breasts, stomach, lower back, thighs, and any other area that I think might stretch...hopefully minimize the stretch mark side effect of pregnancy.
• I'm feeling increasingly HEAVIER.  Although I have much of my energy back, I still feel sluggish and clumsy-like.  I need to start moving around more, going on walks or checking out the pre-natal Yoga DVD that I have.
• I'm beginning to feel the need for maternity pants.  Using a hair band or rubber band to fasten the button to the hole isn't cutting it anymore on a few of my pants.  I don't like any added pressure or tightness around my stomach.
• I'm anticipating our next doctor's appt. in a few days on Monday.  We'll be having a 3-D ultrasound done and we SHOULD be able to find out the sex of the baby!  FINALLY :)

Photo via www.babycenter.com

My phone's BabyBump app says, "Many of the bones in your baby's body are starting to harden.  Among these first bones to develop is the inner ear which is part of the reason why your baby might e able to hear sounds such as your heart beating or your tummy growling.
As you settle into your second trimester you'll likely gain your appetite back.  Eating healthy and getting enough protein is important at this stage as your body needs approximately 300 extra calories to help your baby develop.  Equally important is continuing with exercising; keep moderation in mind and do not begin any new, strenuous workouts."