Week 22
Baby H is the size of a papaya.

22 weeks exactly- Max weighs 1 lb now!

Today I was the crazy lady in Publix who takes pictures with the fruit- but can you blame me for not wanting    2 lbs of Papaya to eat this week?

Check out this adorable surprise from my parents: New York City onesies for Max!

Pregnancy + Rainy Saturday + Grad Work = Pajama Day

The best muffins I've ever made: Pumpkin Whole Wheat Muffins with Pecan Streusel 

How far along? 22 Weeks

Maternity clothes: I'm still on the quest for a comfortable bra...although I'm not sure they actually exist. Trying them on feels like this, except I have yet to find any that fit properly and stay comfortable. How is it that bras and shoes are deceptively comfortable in the store, but suddenly become torture devices once you've bought them? 

Stretch marks? None! Perhaps I should buy stock in Palmers; so far it's a magic cream!

Sleep: This week has been much better. My dreams have never been weirder, but I only had to get up once or twice each night. This week I've dreamed about everything from teaching to French Pantry to being on the run in Westeros. Gateaux to Game of Thrones, now that's quite the gamut! Lately I've been working on graduate school coursework around the clock, so it's also possible I'm actually wearing myself out enough to get some sleep. 

Best moment this week: I love the little moments because I find they get taken for granted way too often by many people. This week my favorite activity was lounging at home with Gabe and just talking the night away while Gabe rested his hands on my belly. He is already so caring with Max, and my heart just melts with love for both of them. I love the way Gabe talks to Max, gives him belly kisses, and tries to feel his kicks (not quite yet). Our life as a family of three is off to an amazing start.

Miss Anything? Caffeine 

Movement: Max is getting more active, so I get to feel his adorable kicks throughout the day. Even when I'm deep in work his little flutters bring a smile to my face. 

Food cravings: Donuts, Pumpkin, Hot Fudge, and pretty much anything sweet. Also, Butterbeer Frappuccinos are delicious- I may or may not have had two this week. In contrast, I also got a craving for popcorn shrimp, which was completely out of the blue. I've never been into fried foods much, but who am I to turn down a simple psychological need? As Albus Dumbledore would say, "of course it is happening inside your head, but why on earth should that mean it is not real?" The high wizard approves, so I'll keep giving into my better cravings...

Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope.

Gender: Boy!

Labor Signs: No

Symptoms: restless legs, prominent appearance to veins, disrupted sleep, increased appetite, ever-larger boobs and belly :-) 

Belly Button in or out? In

Wedding rings on or off? My new ring is the perfect size, and it's not going anywhere!

Happy or Moody most of the time: I didn't know happiness like this existed! I'm so incredibly grateful for what we've been blessed with!

Looking forward to: I hope Gabe will be able to feel Max kick soon!