And We Have a Bump!

You asked for it, you got it! Here's the bump at 17 weeks! The flutters have started and I must say that feeling Jackson move around is the coolest thing I've ever experienced. Last week when I was lifting weights, he was doing a work out of his own inside by belly which was pretty funny. At this point I'm the only one who can feel it but I'm really looking forward to when Marcus can feel him too.

Baby Boy Tuttle

The secret is out- Tiny Tuttle is a beautiful, healthy baby boy! At 16 weeks we weren't scheduled to find out the sex until November 1st but after a blood screen last week revealed elevated AFP levels, we were asked to come in for a level two ultrasound. After a 45 minute ultrasound that checked every inch of the baby from his head to his toes and everything in between, the doctors concluded that Nugget is completely healthy and in fact a male. Of course I needed verification so after some poking and prodding, he finally turned over so we could see him in all of his glory. While I thought my heart was set on a girl, I didn't feel a smidge of disappointment and in fact, I'm absolutely thrilled! As the ultrasound showed, he's an active little guy and we're already talking about what sports he'll play (right now we're leaning towards golf and soccer). The ultrasound tech also mentioned that he has a 'beautiful brain' so I believe he'll be the total package- sorry ladies, he's already spoken for as we're in talks with the Smith's about an arranged marriage to their sweet Charlotte Ives. As for a name, we decided on Friday- Jackson Stephen Tuttle. Jackson is a nod to my dad's dad Jack and Stephen is Marcus's middle name as well as his dad's so it's a nice blend of both families. Hope you like it but if you don't, keep it to yourself! :)

The Avacado of our Eye

This morning we had the 16 week appointment. I can hardly believe that it's been four months and today nugget is the size of an avocado. We didn't have an ultrasound but the nurse did use a Doppler wand to check the heartbeat and I was able to hear it loud and clear (and fast) at 150 beats a minute which they say is good and strong.

Dr. Littleton was the doctor today and I just love him. He's balding, a bit chubby and wears little round glasses. He talked about his grandchildren and answered all of my questions with patience. I laughed out loud when he said he was going to examine by belly to check the size and verify that there was just one baby inside. I told him if they were to discover today, after four months and two ultrasounds that I was having twins, I might lose a little bit of faith in the practice and he laughed. The first trimester screening came back normal which is a huge relief and they drew more blood for the second trimester screen which we'll hear about at the next appointment.

Speaking of the next appointment, I scheduled it for November 1st. Not only will we be finding out the sex of Tiny Tuttle, but we'll be finding out on Marcus's birthday! Two great reasons to celebrate! I am so happy that this appointment is only four weeks away although I just realized I have two papers and a group project due before then so I'll have plenty to keep me distracted.

And speaking of group projects and homework, I am still plugging away at my fourth grad school course. It's hard to motivate on Saturday's to read and write papers but I love the material and am proud of myself for sticking with it through the morning sickness and the loss of energy. At least this weekend I was able to sit out on the patio and enjoy the gorgeous weather while reading the required text.

Tiny may be a toddler by the time I walk across the stage and graduate with my masters but it will happen one way or the other!