Baby Bolin: 31 weeks

This week, Baby Jeffrey measures about 16 inches long. He weighs a little over 3 pounds and is headed for a growth spurt.

From now until the end of your pregnancy, your baby will gain weight faster than he'll increase in length.

By now the baby's lungs and digestive tract are nearly mature. Your baby's irises can now dilate and contract in response to light. Due to the deposits of white fat underneath the skin your baby's skin is no longer red, but is now the wonderful newborn pink color. His fingernails may reach the end of the hands, too.

He can turn his head from side to side, and he's beginning to accumulate a layer of fat underneath his skin in preparation for life as a newborn. As a result, his arms, legs, and body are filling out.

This Week's Activity:

Pack a bag for the hospital.

Besides a change of clothes and a toothbrush, some items to include:

• A photograph or object to focus on during labor
• Snacks to keep your energy up and gum or mints for bad breath
• Your favorite pillow, cozy socks, and slippers
• Books or magazines. Nothing too heavy — you won't be able to concentrate
• A nursing nightie
• A going-home outfit for your baby
• A camera or camcorder, fresh batteries, and film, if necessary