Birthday Ultrasound & Light at the End of the Symptom Tunnel

As those of you back home already know, and those of you on Facebook, yesterday was my birthday. I didn't do much (personal choice, Erik tried to get me out of the house), but I did get a pretty awesome birthday gift: an ultrasound. I was nervous, but not nearly as nervous as I was the two previous times; my growing belly was telling me that everything was probably okay. Unlike my previous two ultrasounds, this one wasn't internal, so I was able to feel the cold jelly on my belly for the first time. I held my hand out behind my head for Erik to hold, and I waited to see our baby. I didn't notice a heartbeat specifically, but since the baby was stretching, turning, kicking and punching, I knew it was there. I don't believe I've ever smiled so big. I loved that it was such a mover! She took photos of him/her from every angle and showed me the adorable little nose. Our baby has a nose. Our baby is a baby. Wow.

As usual, I felt immediate relief and knew that the rest of the day would be amazing. The midwife (Wendie) gave us our two sonograms and our USB drive with the rest of the photos.

This is my favorite one because it's stretching out it's leg and arm.

I can't wait to stop referring to the baby as an "it". I was all over the idea that I was having a girl, until my ultrasound, now I have a nagging boy feeling. Guess we'll see! My next appointment is at 16 weeks when we return from the states. From there, I'm going to try to schedule an appointment to go find out the sex.

My fatigue has certainly lessened. I started noticing that, maybe a week ago, I could still function without a nap, although I was still tired. Now, not having kids to chase after and not having to wake up early, I have lots more energy to do things like, deep clean my house in anticipation to leave it to go home. ;)

My appetite is MUCH better than it was, but I still have lost 4 pounds. Frozen chicken nuggets are still disgusting, but Erik said he'd give them to Peters so I don't have to see them in my freezer anymore. Seriously, sometimes I don't want to open my freezer because I know they're in there. Ha ha.

My digestive issues are easing up some, but I'm hoping they disappear entirely in my second trimester. Wishful thinking?

Other than that, I just look like a stuffed turkey. A turkey that went on vacation and gorged on bread and baked goods. I can't wait until I actually look pregnant instead of a girl whom took too many trips to the buffet line.

I'm leaving tomorrow morning to go back home to Pittsburgh for 30 days (everyone knows this since it's all I've been talking about). I'm excited to have my family and friends watch me turn from a stuffed turkey to something that resembles a cute pregnant woman. Again, wishful thinking? I may not know the sex just yet, but I'm going to come back with so much Pittsburgh, Steelers, & Penguins gear!