full FIGured

Your baby, just over 1 1/2 inches long and about the size of a fig, is now almost fully formed. Its hands will soon open and close into fists, tiny tooth buds are beginning to appear under the gums, and some of its bones are beginning to harden.

It's already busy kicking and stretching, and its tiny movements are so effortless they look like water ballet. These movements will become more frequent as its body grows and becomes more developed and functional. You won't feel your baby's acrobatics for another month or two — nor will you notice the hiccuping that may be happening now that its diaphragm is forming.

Already kicking and stretching, this week I like to call it my little action FIGure. Wouldn't Reece love that!

Doesn't the idea of kicking and stretching in effortless water ballet-like movements sound incredibly peaceful. It must be really nice in there right now.

Out here, it's getting a little better. The sinus and congestion has really taken a toll on me most days. I haven't had much of an appetite, especially for meat, but eating small meals really helps how I feel, which I know means it helps me physically too. The congestion moved down into my throat late this week. I'm not sure if that's good technically, but it sure feels better, especially on my raw, Rudolph-like nose. The Claritin has worked great a few times and Tylenol a few times as well for the sinus pain. I'm so thankful for that.

I've taken fewer naps lately and had a pretty productive week this week considering. I got dinner on the table most nights, too. D has continued to help a ton without complaint. Thank you! The other night I went to bed at 8:30 and then woke up at 11:30 to go clean the rest of the kitchen. : )

When I'm sitting down, I often lay my hand on my belly. Sometimes, I look down, see my hand, and then remember what is really down there. It's the sweetest feeling, and results in the sweetest little smile.

All in all, I don't think I'm complaining much. I think I'm just getting through this very temporary tired, congested, and nauseous time as best I can. I'm managing my expectations every day and trying not to take on too much. I do get crabby when I'm spent, and that's a time to be cautious of. I need to ask D to step in before I get cranky with my little guy.

I don't mean to paint a picture that I walk around all day smiling. But, I do have some major perspective. Anytime I feel bad or get tired, I remember that it's all for such an amazing, beautiful thing.

I WILL NOT take it for granted. I am absolutely grateful. Grateful to be nauseous, grateful to be congested, grateful to be tired. Grateful, grateful, grateful to be pregnant.

Thank you, thank you, Lord, for another day.