24 Weeks Pregnant with Baby #2

How far along? 24 weeks!

Size?  Baby is the size of a cantaloupe.

Maternity Clothes? Yes.  Still able to make some non maternity work, but options are slim.

Weight Gain? Not sure.

Gender? Baby boy!

Sleep?  Ehh... not great and not horrible.  I've started to get more uncomfortable at night.

Movement? This baby is a mover and a shaker.  I wonder if that means he'll be my wild child.  I sent A a video recently of my belly moving.  A also felt baby move for the first time - he could've felt movement much sooner, but we never just sit and relax together (sad, but true).

Food Cravings? Still love those specialty drinks and Coke.

Labor signs? Way too early.

What I Miss? Chicago style hot dogs and sandwiches.  Deli sandwiches sound so good lately and there are so many restaurants that serve them around here.  I would love to get my hands on a sub/hoagie/grinder.  Not sure it fits here, but my boss revealed that there will be a trip to Ireland... in January.  And I would've been asked to go except for the fact that I'll be 9 months pregnant.  Ireland is number 1 on my list of places to visit and to say I'm disappointed is an understatement.  They couldn't have planned this trip for any other time?!?!  I would choose baby over Ireland any day, obviously.  I just can't believe the timing. :\

Symptoms?  Dry skin.  I returned from lunch recently and noticed that my skin had gotten so dry, it was actually flaky on my face.  So weird and it looked terrible.  I use plenty of moisturizer in the morning and it definitely didn't look like that when I left he house.  More discomfort lately.  Any time I try to cook, clean, or run errands for a long period of time, I end up really sore and tired.  Also having a little pain near my c-section scar.

Happy or Moody?  Well, I was happy.  W has slept well the past couple nights.  BUT yesterday and today, I received the following comments,  "Your THAT big already?!?", "Just one baby??", "WOW, you are REALLY big for having so much further to go!!" from separate people.  So feeling very self conscious, sensitive, and just plain gigantic.  People should know better and shame on them for bringing me down (and shame on me for letting them).  On another note, I'm preparing some witty replies to have at my disposal for the next stupid comment I receive.

Looking Forward To?  Halloween with W.  We have parties and trick-or-treating coming up.  Next ultrasound of baby is also coming up soon.  Painting the nursery starts Friday.  Can't wait to see our fall photos.  Our photo session wasn't perfect, but much improved over the 1 year photos.  I think there will be some great shots of W. :)

Best Moment of the Week?  We MAY have a name.... or we may not.  BUT A called baby by my favorite name.  When I asked him about it, he said he didn't like referring to baby as "he" or "the baby" so I'm taking that as a positive sign. :)  Baby Gap had lots of things on sale and sent me a code for 40% off, no exclusions.  So I stocked up on size 3 items for next fall/winter.  Call me shallow, but I love Baby Gap and love a bargain!  I've done this since W was born because Gap seems to be true to size (for him) and it's been great having items ready (at a discounted price) when the seasons change.  Also, we carved pumpkins last night and W was very into it - warmed my heart.  Lots of great moments lately.

A took this picture of me last night and I do think I suddenly look huge (still doesn't make it ok for people to tell me that).  Either baby had a growth spurt, baby is in an awkward position, or the shirt is really unflattering.  Perhaps all of the above.  BUT all that matters is baby is growing and healthy!!  P.S. A put that mirror up above the fire place over the weekend and I LOVE it. :)