34 Weeks!

Dear Spencer,

We're almost there - 34 weeks down, only 6 to go!

Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. His fat layers — which he'll need to regulate his body temperature once he's born — are filling him out, making him rounder. His skin is also smoother than ever. His central nervous system is maturing and his lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

I can't believe we really are in the homestretch now, I should probably start packing! I have a doctor's appointment on Thursday. It's just a check-up, so I may or may not have news to share. After this week, I'll be visiting with Dr. B every week until you arrive.

It's so comforting to know that we're so close to full-term, I can already practically feel you in my arms!

Can't wait to really hold you,

Mom