8 weeks pregnant

8 weeks

Hey mom,

I’ve got fingers! And toes! Plus, that tail I grew in week 4 is just about gone as my body catches up to the development of my spine. I’m still growing like crazy – about a mm every day – and that protective layer of amniotic fluid is growing right alongside me, with about 2 additional tablespoons per week. Forgive me, but I don’t quite have control of my arms and legs just yet. I’m actually flailing them around a fair bit, but chances are you won’t feel that. In other words, you’ve got a big raspberry jiggling around your belly. But hey, before you pick out my name, I’m still not a ‘he’ or a ‘she’ just yet, aside from my genetic makeup.

At this point, you might feel start to see some subtle signs of your pregnancy in the mirror. Your breasts are probably getting bigger and your pants might be feeling a little snug. It’s all part of the pregnancy process. Luckily, I’ve got some good news to counter the bad news that you’re probably dealing with some not-so-fun morning sickness right now. The good news is, even if you’re spending way more time than you’d like in the bathroom, morning sickness is actually a good sign that your pregnancy is going well.

If that’s not enough to ease your nausea, there are a few strategies for combatting that constant queasy feeling. For one thing – don’t skip meals! If you don’t eat, your stomach acids will start to churn which can actually make morning sickness worse. If the idea of eating a big breakfast turns your stomach, consider being a constant grazer throughout the day. Small meals are easier to digest, plus you can avoid wasting food when you pick and choose exactly what you want to eat. If just the smell, sight, or thought of something is making you nauseated – skip it. Stick to whatever works, even if it’s repetitive. Of course, don’t forget to eat healthy. If vegetables are turning you off, consider a sweet piece of fruit. Nearly every veggie has a fruity counterpart to help you get the nutrients we both need.

Can you believe it’s been two months already? Pretty groovy. Before I sign off, I just wanted to remind you that “To be pregnant is to be vitally alive, thoroughly woman, and undoubtedly inhabited.” – Anne Buchanan & Debra Klingsporn (Authors)

Love,
Baby