Week 26 updates

Hayden now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches from head to heel.

Practice breaths. This week, Hayden's nostrils are starting to open up, which gives him the chance to practice breathing using his muscles and lungs. There's no air to take in, of course, so instead he "inhales" and "exhales" amniotic fluid. By the time he's born, he'll be a pro.

What a sucker! Hayden is also flexing some of his feeding muscles— his lips and mouth. His sucking reflex is so strong that if his hand floats by his face, he'll suck on his thumb or fingers.

Up for grabs. "Grasping something—like my umbilical cord—is my newest trick." Hayden is practicing his killer grip right now. His favorite pull toy is his umbilical cord, which he likes to yank and tug.

He is continuing to kick and is getting stronger and stronger each week. Now if he would just stop being shy and show others his strong kicks in mommy's tummy. Every time someone tries to watch his athletic ability he decides to stop and go back to sleep. :)