Pregnancy Diary, Weeks 17 through 23

Week 17, Day 4

We got the word today -- you're OKAY!! The amnio results were all clear, meaning that they didn't find any evidence of genetic problems (like those that we've had before)... Your dad was absolutely awestruck, bless his heart. While we were, as always, hoping for the best, we were preparing for the worst -- your dad more than I. He sounded on the phone a lot like the first time I ever told him that I was pregnant -- breathless, speechless. Then in around 10 minutes, he presented himself at my office door with a bouquet of flowers. What a guy. I have emailed all of my friends, your dad called all of his family, and the whole world now knows that you are a "normal" boy expected in May! We are finally celebrating with boundless joy...

Week 18, Day 1

We got to show you off yesterday. My very good friend Carol in Austin graduated from college (quite a feat for someone who is 39!), so we drove there to see the event. She and I are both sharing our final approaches to the things that we've held dearest all of our lives -- she, a college degree and career, and I, you. Fortunately, the weather was absolutely perfect -- cool and clear as a bell -- and you didn't seem to mind the 3-hour ride each way (I checked with the doctor first to make sure this was okay!). I made sure your dad got a picture of me and Carol with our "prizes" -- her diploma and my belly full o' you!

Still anxiously awaiting a few more movements, kid! Have a "regular" OB appointment on this Wednesday where I'll get to once again hear your heartbeat... ahhhhh.

Week 19, Day 0

Your dad and I (usually the world's biggest scrooge!) had the best Christmas ever, thanks to you! Just a couple of days before, you gave me a few swift kicks that even your dad could feel -- what a relief and a joy! Now I anxiously await more... There's absolutely nothing we could have received in the way of gifts from others that can compare with what you have given us so far.

Week 19, Day 6

What a cool thing happened last night -- both your dad and I got to see my belly wiggle, thanks to you! I noticed that you perk up your movements when your dad comes home from work and starts talking, so now, when I want to get you kicking (to reassure myself yet again), I just have your dad talk to my belly. This evening when we did that, my whole belly jumped! We both laughed, and your dad quickly put his hand on the spot so he could feel you better. Just hoping that this nasty cold and all my coughing isn't too scary for you...

Week 23, Day 0

I am exhausted. Your dad and I are working extra hours in order to buy a new house well before your arrival -- we can't stand the train's loud blast in the backyard any longer, and I don't want it to wake you every hour either! Hopefully these long hours will pay off. You are getting heavier and harder to carry, although I'm not complaining... ;-)

Part of my work is finding Internet links to various topics relating to infertility. Today as I read a webpage listing stories by parents who had lost one or more of their multiple children in utero, I began crying without warning and had to switch pages quickly... My sister Lynn, your Aunt, has told me that I won't be able to watch the news anymore... oh boy, here we go.