Fowle Family Adventures: 16 weeks: growth spurt, baby gifts, and hot peppers

Well, it's hard to believe, but Sunday marked 16 weeks pregnant! Being super busy with work and the fam, this pregnancy seems to be going fairly quickly. I have my next check-up with the midwife on Friday, and I am so looking forward to hearing that little heartbeat again. It never gets old! Also, at the end of this appointment I will most likely be scheduling the 20 week ultrasound, where, assuming the baby cooperates, we will find out if Nathan will be getting a little brother or sister!

The last few weeks I have been feeling lots of stretching and growing, and noticing that my shirts seem to be getting shorter and maternity pants are no longer optional! It's exciting to see my belly start to grow, and a little funny that it seems to be happening more quickly this time around. I guess my body knows the drill this time! I'm also enjoying the restoration of my energy. I still go to bed even earlier than I normally do, but during the day I feel like a human being again--I love the second trimester!

During the last week in particular, I have been finding ways to add spicy banana peppers and jalapenos to all of my lunches and dinners. I can't get enough of them! This is going to be a sassy child! :) I've also been craving meat--especially roast beef and ham. Luckily those two items taste great with some spicy pepper accompaniment!

This baby has also started receiving a few gifts, which has been so thoughtful and wonderful. Mom gave the baby my baby quilt, which is so cute and still in wonderful condition. I can't wait to recreate some of the newborn photo shoots my mom did with me, with the next generation.

Hillary completely surprised me last week by bringing me a beautiful receiving blanket and stuffed owl that she had made for the little bean. She is so talented, and I adore both of the items--in fact, it may have inspired an owl theme for the nursery!