The average baby is about 20 inches long and weighs approximately 7 1/2 pounds as birth, but anywhere between 5lbs., 11 1/2 ounces and 8 lbs., 5 3/4 ounces is a healthy range for newborns. My guess is that the baby will be closer to 8 pounds, but only time will tell.

The amniotic fluid, once clear, is now pale and milky from the baby's shedding vernix caseosa, the cheesy substance that covers and protects the baby's skin in utero. The outer layers of skin are also sloughing off as new skin forms underneath.

One thing mentioned that I have been kind of concerned about is when and where my water will break. According to the web site, membranes rupture unexpectedly in less than 15 percent of pregnancies, and when it does happen, the baby's head tends to act like a cork at the opening of the uterus, thus hopefully keeping the liquid from gushing out. I have actually know people where they have used that exact word - gushing. Hopefully we won't have to worry about that around here.

Only 5 percent of babies are actually born on their scheduled due date. When I visited the doctor yesterday, there was not much of a change since last week. I am not dilated quite 1 centimeter. The doctor asked me if I was having any contractions. When I said no, she said "None?" That doesn't give me much hope that things will be happening right along. I asked the doctor how long we keep waiting, and she said that they usually won't let my go beyong 10 days. She said that if I come back next week than we'll talk. I do honestly have to say that I'm getting pretty tired of this pregnant thing. I hope the baby decides to stop being stubborn and makes it's appearance soon.

Will let everyone know if there are any new developments.

Love,
Stacy p.s.

There are new pictures up on the web site of the basement and the completed nursery. Also, there are directions to the hospital. So be sure to check it all out.