18 Weeks

This Life magazine cover (April 30, 1965) was named one of their best. It shows an 18-week old fetus in the womb photographed using an endoscope with an electronic flash by Sweden’s Linnart Nilsson. His book, A Child is Born, sold 8 million copies in the first four days after publication.

Our baby has grown to approximately 5 1/2 inches long (about the length of a large sweet potato) now at the 18-week mark. Adding two ounces in just one week, the baby weighs about seven ounces.

I had a check-up this past Thursday morning. The doctor found the heartbeat right away, which was strong and fast. He said the baby must be doing its morning calisthenics. I thought that was cute. I got to schedule the ultrasound date for the 20 week milestone (half way!). We decided to find out what we’re having. It’ll be Monday, Feb. 26 at 2:45 p.m. If the baby cooperates, we’ll find out if we’re having a boy or girl.