Here I am at 22 weeks, taken just this past Monday (with Rachel looking on; Arielle took the picture!).  I feel like my tummy is running a bit larger at this stage than in other pregnancies.  I can't imagine doubling in size by the end of all this unless I was having twins -- which we are certain we are not.   By my 20 week appt, I had gained a total of 16 pounds, but 8 of that had been in the 4 weeks prior!  I'm SUPPOSED to gain only a pound a week for a total of 25-35 lbs by delivery.  Well, I've cut back on stuffing myself, so I should do better at my next appt on 12 Aug.

We've been buying many of our main nursery items: crib, infant car seat, Pack 'N Play, etc.  There are restrictions to the size and weight of things shipped to our APO address, so we are definitely a captive audience to what the PX has in stock when it comes to larger unshippable items.  Sean and the girls have been having a ball putting things together.  Normally, it's my job, but I have enjoyed just supervising this go around!

We've even got our cloth diapers!  Yes, I'm taking the plunge and using cloth diapers on this baby.  It seems that cloth diapers have made a resurgence of sorts and are more sophisticated and convenient to use than the cloth diapers of my infancy... oh, so long ago!  They are also incredibly less expensive than disposables and, of course, more environmentally friendly.  I'm excited about using them... obviously, it doesn't take much to amuse me these days!

I continue to have more energy these days as long as I get one little midday nap in!  I still have the bothersome cramping when I sit too long or walk too long, but baby boy seems to be oblivious.  He is very active especially in the evenings.

I found a message board for women with SCH (subchorionic hematoma/hemmorhage) pregnancies which has been so encouraging.  The women are very knowledgable about the condition and willing to share their own experiences as we travel this road together.  Most pregnancy outcomes have been positive despite early deliveries for some.  I will update again after my 12 Aug appt.  I will be 24 weeks by then which means the baby will be considered viable --  he will have over a 50% chance of living outside my womb!

In Christ, Talya