This week was filled with excitement: a fabulous ultrasound (which I’ll feature in another post), lots of baby movement, and (drumroll) a return to running!

Mari-Jo, our precious family friend, gave us her treadmill and (once we finally got it up the stairs), I’ve been addicted to morning exercise. I spent the first week walking, deciding to let my body ease in. But I couldn’t hold off much longer, and I’m now enjoying the endorphins of interval training.

Why is this so exciting? Well, because this sweet little baby already ran a half-marathon with Mommy! I was 8 weeks pregnant when Adam and I ran the Huntersville Half (don’t worry — I had my doctor approve the training program) back on December 8th. 

This was an extremely special day for us. Our fabulous finish-line cheerleaders (our moms, plus Erin, Haley, and Zack) came over for brunch following the race, and it was then that we were able to share our BIG news.  

Adam and I found out we were expecting on November 8th — and it was certainly a challenge to keep our excitement hidden for a month. It all proved worthwhile, though, when we had the chance to surprise our loved ones in creative ways.

Here’s a rundown of how we’re doing at Week 18:

Baby’s size: Above 5.5 inches long (the length of a sweet potato), and weighing in at half a pound!

What’s keeping Baby busy: At this point Baby is yawning, hiccuping, swallowing, and sucking its thumb, not to mention twisting, rolling, punching, and kicking too! For the last week, I’ve finally been able to feel this busy body…and those little flutters make me grin with glee. Tiny bones have also developed in Baby’s ears, so he or she is starting to hear us speak!

What’s keeping Mommy and Daddy busy: Wednesday’s ultrasound appointment was one of the highlights of our marriage, and we spent the rest of the day talking with family and staring at the sweet little pictures. We haven’t started decorating the nursery yet — that’s next on the agenda — but we did clear out all the guest room furniture so it’s ready to roll. More details to come!

Cravings: Fruit! Especially strawberries. Sweet Adam made his first craving-related trip to the grocery store last Friday night because Baby had to have a bowl of berries. What an amazing guy!

Struggles: Sleep. My precious Mom bought me a Boppy body pillow when I heard the news that docs prefer side-sleeping during these next 20-ish week. I’ve been a back sleeper for as long as I can remember, so this has been quite a change! Sweet Adam has been patient as I’ve introduced this new “body” to our bed. Pinot has been quite a sport, too.

Not me, clearly. But here’s my new best friend.