Week # 12: The Spine, the Cord and the Restless!

Our appointment July 22 at 7:15, we are running a little late because we both over-slept! This morning we would be able to see the Spine/bone development, the imbilical cord and the baby is restless as ever; kicking Christine like a jack-rabbit. The baby now measures 52mm from crown to rump.

It is our last visit with this Doctor, Christine is emotional but she is hiding it well. We instruct the receptionist that we have a re-writable DVD that we would like to record the image of the baby; we hope the baby is active. The Doctor and Nurse come in, stating this is our 'Graduation' day and asks if we are excited...we are! The image is pulled up as it is every week and there's the baby, the image of he/she laying with the back towards us. We figured the baby was sleeping and there would not be any movement...boy were we wrong! The position of the baby gives us an incredible view of the developing spine and bones. It is amazing enough to see nothing turn into something, but to see your child developing it's skeletal structure is surreal. Anyway, we would be told that the image above the baby is the imbilical cord and with every heartbeat comes a pulse through the cord; yet more amazing.

The Doctor finishes up and instructs us that he will meet us outside the room once Christine is dressed.

The Doctor and nurses are outside to send us off...We hug the Nurses and Christine hugs the Doctor; we thank them for everything they have done for us! The receptionist gives us what she calls the 'Smelly Bag' (lotions, candles and the like) and a coupon book...it is a very nice gesture and send off. At this point, Christine breaks down and cries...we can only imagine what the people in the waiting room are thinking. Hugs for the Receptionist and we have officially graduated!

We are on our way to CoCo's, same breakfast place every week (our comfort spot). Christine tells me that she has purchased a cookie and muffin basket for the staff...a very nice gesture on her part.

Well, on to the Baby Doctor for the next chapter in this crazy ride!