week 15: we read last night that the baby during this time is about the size of a pear in length and about the weight of a grapefruit- funny how pregnancy changes the way you look at fruits!

It has been a pretty eventful week 14! We had another doctor’s appointment on Friday and we were able to hear the baby’s heartbeat again with the Doppler. It came through loud and clear and was much stronger (140 beats per minute) and easier to find than at 10 weeks. The doctor’s scales also reported that K has only gained 1 pound… despite what her clothes might report. The doctor actually told us that most of the weight gain doesn’t even begin until after week 16.

Our news is no longer a secret on campus. During chapel on Thursday one of the students offered “praises for Mrs. Mertz” and the Reverend (who is a friend) echoed, “Yes, praises for the Mrs. and Mr. Mertz and for their baby.” The kids are all very excited and have been really sweet to us (see the card made by one of Kara’s dorm kids below).

Lastly, my Mom found a great store near by that offers used baby and maternity stuff. I am psyched- finally things that look reasonably priced to me! The three of us went shopping this Saturday morning and got everything from maternity clothes to a prenatal yoga video to stuffed arctic animals to some clothes with dinosaurs on it!

Another banner week in baby land!

this has been a difficult week for us in the technology department... first K's computer died and then the ipod followed a few days after. this post was written on a typewriter while listening to wind chimes... K is doing fine and we are having the monthly check-up with the doctor at the end of the week.

week 13

Depending on where you draw the line, this is either the end of the first trimester or 1 week before the end of the first trimester! K is feeling better on all fronts. She is less fatigued, has learned to eat to minimize the nausea, and is beginning to feel 'normal.'

Also, we are no longer keeping our 'secret' from anyone! Work, family, friends all know (or are in the process of finding out) so feel free to spread the word!

week 12:
These pictures don't really do the growing belly justice. We are one week away from the end of the first trimester and close friends are starting to notice the ba-bump! According to the scale, Kara still hasn't gained any weight, but her pants certainly don't fit anymore!

year 31: the camera adds 10 pounds... at least.

This week we visited the hospital where we plan on delivering: MetroWest Medical Center in Framingham, MA. Our initial visit was to tour the birthing facilities which were recently renovated. We were pleased to see the nicely-sized private rooms complete with private bathrooms and showers! Greg is slightly concerned with the limited space the convertible bed/chair... it is a good thing he has spent just as much time sleeping on the ground as in a bed!

On our second visit we met with the panel of 8 OB doctors who could be on call the day we need to go in. Each were pleasant and informative and we were happy to have an opportunity to ask many questions.