L-O-V-E *23 weeks, 3 days*

Perhaps the best Valentine's Day we've ever had, and that's saying alot considering there were 14 before this one! We were eagerly anticipating the weekend and the excitement of finally finding out Baby T's gender. It was a long shot, but we'd found a local place on the internet that does 3D ultrasounds and had a Valentine special. They recommended having the ultrasound done around 28 weeks, but the special would have expired by then....so at 23 weeks and 3 days we saw Baby T again. It was an AMAZING experience that I would recommend to anyone that is considering it.

Upon the technician placing the wand on my belly, she instantly said, "It's a boy!" Shock was really our initial reaction as the technician at the 19 week Level II sono said it was a girl. We'd been so disappointed by the experience and she admitted that she was unsure if this information was accurate. However, they did put it in our file and even our local doctor said they wouldn't report this information unless it was accurate. All I have to say is, "whatever!" The 3D sono tech told us that she had never had that happen before, and I honestly think she questioned herself for a second after our reaction. We both said, "what!?!" I asked if she could take a picture for confirmation. She told us that she'd seen the "turtle head" and took a picture of Baby T's package. Hehe!

We'd really been hesitant about telling everyone, and BJ had considered keeping it a surprise; however, we decided to break the news in a special way. Both of Baby T's sets of grandparents watched the 3D ultrasound from their home computers three hours way. Suzanne and the boys were with Ralph and Diane; and a family friend (Betty Jean) was with my parents. Apparently Betty Jean knew it was a boy even before the technician typed the information on the screen.

After that initial excitement, we spend the next half hour just watching Baby T move about. Due to my concern that he'd passively lay on his belly the entire time like the 19 week, I drank a little Cherry Pepsi before the appointment. This apparently made him happy and active, and the technician said it was a good thing. His little arms were moving all around and often times were waving in front of his face. We watched him yawn and even suck his thumb! It was adorable!

I may be crazy, but I can really see his daddy in the picture. I think it's in his forehead and eyes that I see BJ, rather than myself. I guess time will tell!

This experience has made Baby T more real to me than ever. Sometimes you feel so disconnected from that little person growing inside when you can't see for yourself what is going on. I find myself just staring at the pictures wondering if he'll look the same in a few months. I realize I may be biased, but he sure is a cutie. Can't wait to see him in person!