Gut punched (or kicked).

Last night, without question, the baby kicked me in the gut. I felt it without a doubt! In the last few weeks I sorta wondered if I was feeling something but always passed it off as too much beans or broccoli, if you know what I mean. Not this time. For sure, there were defined little movements placed from some foot or hand. Like little punches - a punch here, and a punch there. Amazing!

Steve and I were laying in bed, and I believe he had drifted off already. I was laying on my back, and when I felt it I breathed in really quick and woke him up right away. Then, it happened several times more. It was actually difficult to fall asleep since I wanted the baby to kick and move all night. I can't wait until it becomes so pronounced that Steve can feel it. Perhaps baby takes after its daddy, and is ready to start playing soccer?

Baby, you make it so much more real.

Doctor's visit, March 29.

Each doctor's visit never ceases to amaze me. We are now four months and two days pregnant - nearly half way there. Baby Rowland is approximately the size of a rubber duckie.

For this particular visit, I had blood tests administered to determine any genetic risks the baby may have. Now that I've done it, I'm a nervous wreck. Steve and I are low to no risk, due to family history on both sides which is nil. But, in this day and age, when so much information can be made available to parents, we chose to be prepared should anything come our way. So, here we are, and here I am, a nervous wreck. No news is good news however, and so I am fairly relaxed and expect no call. Prayers welcome for both my sanity and perfect test results.

That's not the amazing part, though. The amazing part is the surprise I got with the handheld ultrasound device the midwife used to hear the baby's heartbeat again! I am always so, so happy to hear the heart beating so strong, but this time, I also got to hear Baby Rowland moving around! The sound it makes is like something tapping and brushing against a microphone, but my! Baby was moving around like crazy in there, and it made my heart glow. Then, the midwife (one among four and whom I really enjoyed meeting) addressed a small hump just below my belly button, which she explained was the top of my uterus, now almost the size of a small melon. That might explain the recent jutting out of my belly!

If Baby Rowland decides to show us his or her goods, we will find out the sex on the next doctor's visit, which is April 28. We will also get to see a profile of our sweet baby's face, and perhaps other parts like feet and hands. I simply cann0t wait!

A Babymoon to Remember.

LeBlanc Spa in beautiful Cancun, Mexico was a perfect place to spend a romantic week together before Baby Rowland arrives. We were greated with sweet coconut milk in a zen, serene lobby. The resort's general vibe was one of relaxation. Steve and I literally did nothing but read books, lay by the pool and the light, bright blue Caribbean sea, and ate at the resort's awesome restaurants, which featured French, Asian, Italian, Mexican and American cuisines. I read three books, and so did Steve. It was one of those times together where we didn't make plans, and played each day by ear. We talked about Baby Rowland often, and about the changes coming to our lives. I didn't think of work, or anything stressful. It was so relaxing. We also got spa treatments, including massages and a facial. Steve got his first manicure and pedicure with me. I'm still not sure he will get one with me at home. There was a giant chess board and jenga game by the lagoon pool that was so much fun to play! And what trip to the beach would be complete without a game of bocce ball? We actually got to teach some locals how to play, which we enjoyed. Our walks to the local outdoor market were also very interesting, as those Mexicans surely do know how to harass folks to buy something or at the very least, look at all the "unique" things that are available to buy - from blankets, hats, t-shirts and jewelry to shot glasses, ashtrays and magnets. Being on the beach in a bathing suit with a big belly wasn't too different for me, but the drinks I chose throughout the week were surely foreign territory! I had many a virgin pina colada, daquiri and beer. A funny aside, being the clumsy, sober pregnant woman, I fell down a couple of times and needed a Mexican physician due to some slippery stairs. I do believe the rumors that pregnant women get clumsy. There is also a wives' tale associated with that rumor that states the baby will be a boy if you're clumsy, and a girl if you're graceful. Whatever he or she is, I'm definitely clumsy none the less! Guess we'll find out if the rumor is true on April 28, if Baby decides to spread 'em.

It was a babymoon to remember.