We Graduated!

A little over a week ago, Ryan and I went to our 8 week appointment with Dr. Gehlbach. The purpose of the appointment was to make sure things are growing on schedule and to make decisions about the next steps in this process. The appointment well really well. Little Weaver's heart rate was 172 and the baby seems to be growing at the expected rate. With my third pregnancy, she was small from my first ultrasound at 8 weeks. At the time no one was alarmed, but now I wonder if that was a red flag. But thankfully, this one is right on track!  We were super happy to see a strong heartbeat, little arms and legs, and a big baby head!  Dr. Gehlbach showed us the amniotic sac and said there's absolutely nothing else he could hope for. All looks good right now!  Because of all the good news, we 'graduated' from the Reproductive Endocrinologist's office!

Now we're in the hands of Dr. Riojas, my regular OB. I've already seen him once, at 7.5 weeks and he will be sending me to a Perinatologist (high risk OB) toward the end of my first trimester. Then they'll make a decision about my prenatal care together. 

Lately God has continued to give me a sense of peace about everything. I'm mostly hopeful and only slightly nervous about things. I truly appreciate prayers for health, growth, and peace. 

Here's our most recent picture of Little Weaver. He/she is head down and if you look closely (and you know what to look for) you can see the amniotic sac. 

I'm still having typical first trimester symptoms. I'm exhausted all the time, have tender breasts, and am a little bit backed up (if you know what I mean).   It was really bad, but now I've been able to get on top of things with prunes and lots of veggies and water. Thank God. I seriously thought I was going to need surgery. Not kidding. 

I've found what people say has been true. You show much earlier with each pregnancy. I'm still keeping it quiet for all the kiddos in my life, at home and at school. I was hoping to keep it a secret till 20 weeks or so, but I have a feeling I'll be lucky to hide it for another month. Lots of big sweaters and scarves are in my future. 

Here's a picture from Thursday. I'm 9.5 weeks and can barely make regular pants work. I've opted for maternity clothes a few days because it's just too uncomfortable otherwise. 

I'm not upset about the growing belly. In fact, I've always loved my pregnant belly. I'm just struggling to figure out how to keep my secret!  I don't have another appointment until 11 weeks (just a week and half from now). At that time, Riojas will refer me to see the Perinatologist. I'll update more then. We still appreciate all your prayers for us and for our growing family!