The Big 3-0

This post is not just titled "the Big 3-0" just because Daddy will be turning that ripe old age in less than two weeks!!! Right now our second son has hit 30 weeks gestation. He won't see '4-0' so this is a huge milestone. We're almost there!

Fetal Development:
Our little one is nearly three pounds already and growing like a weed.
The early lanugo is disappearing, the eyelids open and close, and the toenails are growing. The bone marrow is now responsible for red blood cell production.

Maternal Changes:
The best sleeping position for a pregnant woman is on her left side. Your aorta and vena cava are slightly to the right of the center of your back, so laying/sleeping on your left side as much as possible ensures an unobstructed blood flow to your organs and extremities. You may be having some trouble sleeping now. Try one of the many maternity pillows or full-body pillows on the market. Sleeping in a recliner chair might also help, especially when the heartburn gets nasty.

Feeding Your Baby:
About half of the babies born today in the United States are breastfed which means half are bottle fed. What will you do? For some moms, this is a simple decision; for others, it's very difficult. And it could be that you'll change your mind after baby is born. The best thing to do now is learn about both, do some soul-searching and research. It isn't the purpose of this guide to debate breastfeeding versus bottle feeding. We do, however, strongly encourage moms to give breastfeeding a try. Even if you switch to formula later, you will have given your baby a terrific start with your breastmilk.