And the verdict is...

BABY MAXFIELD

I get really anxious several days before visiting the doctor or having an ultrasound. I try to be positive, but always seem to fear the worst. I was particularly nervous before our last ultrasound maybe because of the anticipation of finding out the gender and perhaps because I just can't quite shake that feeling that I'm not out of the clear on this pregnancy.

Thankfully, everything was fine and the baby put on a fun show for us. The baby was being very modest for most of the ultrasound and we couldn't get a good look of "the goods" because the chord was between the legs and despite turning on my side and taking short breaks, we were afraid we might not get a glimpse. But luckily, just before we were about to call it quits, the ultrasound tech took one last look and said "I think I see some boy parts!"

"Really?!?" I said.

And then I saw them too and was just so very happy to be looking at pictures of our little boy. It was a really special moment for me. I just felt like I knew him all at once.

And then, in typical boy fashion, he flexed his muscles for us. It was pretty darn cute.

After finding out the news, Stu and I had a little debate about whether or not raising boys or girls is easier. I was arguing that little boys just MUST be easier because I kept thinking of myself as a moody teenage girl and he was convinced little girls just MUST be easier because he was thinking of himself as a mischevious little boy who was always getting into trouble.

I think the news was harder for him to grasp because he just kept saying that he couldn't imagine a little version of him running around. I think it sounds a little too perfect. I had always wanted an older brother and always thought having a boy first would be ideal.

Regardless of the debate, we are totally in love with him and can't wait to welcome him into the world in July. He is already loved by so many - including two grandmas who are already spoiling him rotten...lucky duck.

We also learned that he's a healthy boy. He was measuring on the big side of things (a week or so ahead) and already 10 oz. at 18 weeks. I found some formula online that you could calculate the birth weight and it came to 8.75 pounds. I think I'll be lucky if he stays under 9 (then again, I was a 9 pound baby so I suppose I had it coming).

Let's just say, my belly feels like it has doubled in size in just the last 2 weeks and I'm a bit scared because I'm only half way through this pregnancy. I guess I'm shooting for the beached whale look. But please don't mistake this for a complaint. I am just so elated to have a healthy baby boy on the way - whatever it may take.

But go ahead, see for yourself (19 weeks 2 days):