26 Weeks

How our baby boy is growing:

The network of nerves in our baby's ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. He may now be able to hear both our voices as we chat with each other. He's inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when he's born and takes that first gulp of air. And he's continuing to put on baby fat. He now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches (an English hothouse cucumber) from head to heel. Since we're having a boy, his testicles are beginning to descend into his scrotum — a trip that will take about two to three days. He's also soaking up my antibodies, getting his immune system ready for life outside the womb. Eyes are forming, and he'll soon be practicing the blink...perfect for batting those freshly grown lashes.

How my life's changing:

My lower back is a little achy lately, thanks both to my growing uterus — which shifts my center of gravity, stretches out and weakens my abdominal muscles, and may be pressing on a nerve — as well as hormonal changes that loosen my joints and ligaments. Plus, the extra weight I'm carrying means more work for my muscles and increased stress on my joints, which is why I usually feel worse at the end of the day. Walking, standing, or sitting for long periods, as well as bending and lifting can all put a strain on my back.

... I think someone needs a massage!