Week 22

*How far along?: 22 weeks

*Total weight gain: 5.5 kilos - which is about 12 pounds

*How big is baby?: Sparky is now the size of a papaya
Watch what you say -- baby is now able to hear outside noise from down in the womb. Studies show that baby finds gentle music and your own voice most soothing. Nipples are starting to sprout, and that little face is fully formed. And, baby's starting to settle into sleep cycles, snoozing about 12 to 14 hours a day. It shouldn't be hard to figure out when -- just pay attention to those kicks as they start and stop.

*Maternity clothes?: Yes of course. I got into a swim suit on a crowded public beach for the first time this week - my belly felt HUGE in a bikini!

*Sleep?: Really starting to get uncomfortable.... apparently last night I was snoring away on my back so got proded until I turned back on my side. The bump is just getting uncomfortable to sleep with on my side - I think I need to do a bit more trial & error with building myself a little pillow cocoon. Worse dream of the week: waking up because I was dreaming I had leeches all over my feet & legs - lovely.

*Best moment this week?: Seeing Sparky's movement from the outside!

*Movement?: Nearly a week ago now (Feb 28th to be precise) I saw a kick that was so strong my belly actually moved. Murray & I were both amazed - and we have seen it a few times since then this week as well - I guess Sparky is getting nice & strong in there!

*Food cravings?: I did eat a lot of dill pickles this week as snacks.... nothing more interesting than that though:) More that Murray has been cooking some lovely lean meals lately - the pork steaks we had last night covered in wholegrain mustard then rolled in breadcrumbs were GORGEOUS!!

*Labor signs?: too soon for that!

*Belly button in or out?: Innie

*What I miss: being able to comfortably paint my toe nails. I'm JUST about the point where I can't do it myself anymore cause the bump is in the way for me to lean forward!

*What I'm looking forward to: Hearing Sparky's heartbeat at our doctor's appointment tomorrow!

*Milestone: Well it was a big milestone for me - I bought our first baby outfit!! Last night before grocery shopping I popped in a few shops and found a GORGEOUS one piece outfit with feet, and a matching hat (July is winter here after all!). It is white with little stars all over it and has a matching hat and a 'precious' badge on the chest - so cute. So I bit the bullet & just bought it. I have been quite hesitant to buy anything up til now..... but it did feel GREAT to finally pick something out for Sparky:) Also the gorgeous girl & boy outfits Grandma Sis sent this week were fun - toooo cute! Makes me think oh sure I can dress a boy in pink!?! Or maybe not, ha ha, but the blue outfit is definitely something either sex could wear - super cute!!