36 Weeks

So, 36 Weeks it is!

As for what’s physically happening now…. A baby at this point weighs about 4 ½ to 5 ½ lbs pm average. As for length, the average is about 17-18 inches…we’ll see our bean pole is compared to this.

In addition to Little B bulking up over these last weeks, which is his/her primary job, there are a few other neat developments. For one, Little B’s sucking reflex & muscles (you know, the ones that will allow him/her to eat) are now fully developed. The baby starts to practice blinking—and is very sensitive, even in utero, to lighting changes. So, if a bright light was to be shined directly on my belly, the baby would turn away from this. Don’t worry, I’m not going to test this—but that’s what research has shown from doing this while a baby is being viewed on an ultrasound. Baby’s brain and lungs are also rapidly developing as Little B prepares to go from the underwater world to the one we live in.

As for Little B bulking up, I’m all for it if it means the very pointed body parts that “greet” my body parts get more rounded. On other fronts, some research now suggests that when the baby’s brain and lungs reach complete development, that they send signals to start the labor process. Some researchers suggest that once the brain is fully developed, it could trigger the adrenal glands to release the hormone, Cortisol. This hormone could effectively alter the metabolism of Progesterone & Estrogen in the placenta, causing labor to begin. Other researchers believe that it’s the lungs that initiate labor. Their explanation is that once the lungs are ready to fully function, they begin to secrete enzymes that can start the delivery process. Either way, those are interesting theories--- and its pretty cool if that indeed is the case. Its kinda like Little B is ringing the doorbell saying “Let me in, World!”

We’re on our way to Dayton & Columbus for a final get away. Mike’s Mom, “Mamma G” is hosting a baby shower for us on Saturday. I’m really excited to see our family & friends there…..it will be nice and I’ll be sure to post pictures. Then, on Sunday morning, we’ll be heading over to Mike’s grandmother’s house to have breakfast before we head to Columbus. My parents are coming to Ohio for the weekend to spend time with Kev, Collette, Calvin & Cameron. We’ll get to spend the afternoon with them on Sunday, which will also be nice.

Ahh, our last weekend away for awhile.