18 weeks...

I'm almost to the half way point of pregnancy #2. Patrick would tell you it's flying by. I, on the other hand, completely disagree. I do believe it's because I was sick and laying on the couch for so many weeks. Either way, I'm thrilled to be 18 weeks pregnant!

I still have a little bit of morning sickness. The good news is that it's not all day (and all night) any more. It just hits in the morning - and not everyday. I have a terrible phlegm problem and I spit more now than I ever have in my life. The phlegm just cannot be in my throat, or anywhere near it...you know?

I've gained 12 pounds so far, which is better than when I was pregnant with B. I think it sounds a little high, but apparently it's not terrible. As a similarity (to my pregnancy with B) my butt, hips and thighs have all grown, despite my best efforts. My body collects fats in the worst places. I know my bottom is bigger because Patrick kindly told me. And I guess my face is starting to "fill out" a little. My sweet husband is very honest and after an initial "I-can't-believe-you-said-that" moment, I do appreciate it.

One thing I have struggled with a lot this pregnancy (aside from a love of sugar) is fear and worry. This whole pregnancy has been a step of faith and humbling in the most beautiful ways. With Benjamin we had the privilege of seeing his little growing body a lot and hearing his heartbeat a lot. This time there is a lot of waiting and trusting God with Beta - whatever may happen. It wasn't until just yesterday that I'm pretty sure, I think, I felt Beta move around. I want to feel baby kicks and jabs already! I want to know my baby is alive and well! But, I trust. And I wait. And I hope, not in myself or a baby, but in God - the Giver and Creator and Sustainer of all life.

Although we're pretty good at taking weekly pictures, I have not been as good about posting them. I bet it has something to do with the fact that I have a toddler and a house and things to do. Life just isn't as easy as it was last time. But I don't mind.

Here are some pictures from today. Please keep in mind that I'm standing up straight, which I can't say is my normal posture. Although, you can see how much my body is changing.

Side view.

Ugh. My back side.
Belly shot. But I bet that's not very accurate because my butt isn't sticking out as much. Roll with it :)
Frontal view.

So there it is. Beta update. Next time you hear from me about Beta, I bet we'll know the gender! Don't forget to vote on the poll...just five more days!!!

AND don't forget to leave a comment on my giveaway post! You'll be glad you did, well maybe.