A quick 20-week update

It’s hard to believe that I’m 20 weeks pregnant and officially halfway through my pregnancy.

My friends who are pregnant or who have kids tell me that even though I’m at the halfway mark, the real growth is just beginning. “Get ready, mama — exponential growth is coming for you. Grow, Madelyn, grow!” one friend remarked earlier today.

At this stage in her growth, Madelyn is around 6.5 inches long and weighs about 10 oz. Most of my pregnancy apps tell me that she’s about the size of a banana. (One app says she’s the size of a Belgian endive. That doesn’t really put it in perspective for me, though!)

I can tell she’s growing because none of my clothes fit anymore. After rotating through the same four dresses and pair of spandex pants, I decided the other day that it was finally time to invest in some maternity clothes. I’ve started wearing them and already feel more confident and comfortable.

I’m beginning to feel Madelyn kick more, and Troy has been able to share in this experience as well. He’s been putting his head on my belly while talking to Madelyn and has felt her kick in response a few times. I like that Troy can feel our mini pugilist’s kicks from the outside looking in and that he can interact with her this way. The more Madelyn kicks, the more at ease I feel; it’s a comforting sign that she’s alive and well.

I’m looking forward to the next 20 weeks — or 18 or 19 or 21 — depending on when Madelyn decides to arrive. Mom and Dad are eagerly awaiting her grand entrance into the world!