Week 40

Today is April 21st - the officialy due date - and no baby yet! However, I followed through and took full advantage of my week off! On Tuesday I went for a maternity massage and facial at Excuria Salon. Wednesday I had my weekly midwife appointment. Everything checked out a-okay. Thursday I had my hair done and then Friday I finished the week of pampering with a pedicure!

On Friday and Saturday I took advantage of the beautiful weather (although it was a little too hot on Saturday) and sat outside and read The Happiest Baby on the Block while Todd was busy doing spring clean up. Since I couldn't really help out I was there for moral support as well as being the water girl. As far as the book, we'll see how well the soothing techniques work, but as of now I would HIGHLY recommend the book to any new parent or grandparent. We also watched The Happiest Baby on the Block DVD earlier in the week. It was very neat to see how well Dr. Karp can make his Five S's (swaddle, side/stomach, shush, swing, and suck) work!!!

Yesterday (Sunday) Todd and I took advantage of the weather and tried to walk the baby out by roaming around Akron Park. But apparently to no avail!

We'll keep you posted!!

Baby's Development (from Pregnancy.org)

• Much of the vernix has vanished but you will notice traces on her body.
• 15% of your child's body is fat. Since s/he hasn't learned to shiver yet, these fat stores will help regulate his/her temperature.
• Approximately 60 - 75 percent is water!
• Your baby's chest sticks out, almost as if s/he's ready to strut proudly over his accomplishment!
• His/her lungs will continue developing until birth. They are manufacturing large quantities of surfactant which works to keep the air sacs open.
• S/he continues to grow; his/her hair and nails longer as well. You may need to trim those fingernails soon after birth or protect his/her face from scratches with mittens.
• Small breast buds are present on both sexes.
• The baby now weighs 7.6 pounds (3462gm) and is 20.2 inches (51.2cm) long.
• Congratulations! Any day now you will be cradling your son or daughter! Cherish the moments and learn all you can about this new personality in your life. They go by all too fast!

(photo from Pregnancy.org)