18 Month Wellness Check-Up

Zachary had his 18 month wellness check today. I always look forward to these appointments because I get to find out how Zachary is doing...and I get my concerns addressed. As Dr. Broadbent entered the room, he immediately noticed Zachary's red feet. This has been one of my concerns because we have not been able to get any improvement on these rashes. My poor little Zachary is constantly scratching the tops of his feet and his ankles and I have been at a loss about what to do for him. Dr. Broadbent suggested that we lather his feet with Aquaphor multiple times throughout the day. Also, he mentioned that we should constantly keep Zachary in cotton socks. Additionally, we will be talking to the Allergist tomorrow to see what else we can try.

We learned that Zachary weighs 20 pounds 8 ounces (less than 0 percentile) and is 30 and 3/8 inches tall (7th percentile). His head measured 18 and 3/8 inches (20th percentile). I was concerned to see that Zachary was still below the charts for his weight but Dr. Broadbent reassured me that Zachary's rate of growth is normal but since he started out off the charts...he remains off the charts. The doctor mentioned that Zachary has gained 2 pounds in the past three months, which is a normal weight gain. I am a little bit more encouraged but will talk with the Allergist, and possibly a Nutritionist about how to "fatten up" my little guy.

We went over the MCHAT (evaluation for Autism) and Zachary did great. There are no indications, at this point, that Zachary will be Autistic. This was great news!

Dr. Broadbent was happy to hear that Zachary is speaking a couple of words, walking without assistance, and that he can follow simple commands. After checking his ears, eyes, nose, mouth, chest, heart, etc...we are happy to report that Zachary is doing great. The only issue that we are still dealing with is Zachary's skin. Unfortunately, Zachary's eczema is still flared up. Dr. Broadbent wants me to work with our Allergist to see if we can figure out why. Dr. Broadbent thinks that Zachary is still being exposed to his allergens...or maybe he has another allergy that we are not aware of yet. Luckily, we have an appointment with the Allergist tomorrow!

Zachary was all caught up with his immunizations and we have to do the flu shot at the Allergist's office, so Zachary did not have to endure any shots today!

One thing that I mentioned, and that Dr. Broadbent noticed, is that Zachary is very attached to me. I let the doctor know that Zachary wants me and only me to hold him...when he can see me. Dr. Broadbent mentioned that stranger anxiety is pretty normal during this age...but thought is was interesting that Zachary would not go to his dad or grandparents. The doctor was encouraged that Zachary is fine once I leave...that it is only the initial separation that sends Zachary into a tizzy. In an effort to help Zachary with his separation anxiety, Dr. Broadbent wants me to leave Zachary with others a little more often and let Matt do some of the normal activities that I usually do. We need to let Zachary know that he is fine without me and that others can do things that mommy usually does. We'll see how this goes!

Except for a weight check in about three months, we don't need to come back again until Zachary's 24 month wellness check. Hooray!

Tall and Skinny

Elizabeth had her 18 month wellness check-up today. She is doing great and is getting bigger! She weighed in at 21 pounds 12 ounces, which is the 18th percentile. She measured 31 5/8 inches tall, which is the 50th percentile. Tall and Skinny...must be taking after her dad.

The doctor was really impressed with the fact that Elizabeth signs around 40 words. He also thought it was amazing that she can follow three-step commands (i.e. "Elizabeth go get the toy, put it in the box, and then go get daddy"). The doctor mentioned that she is more on the level of a 2 1/2 year old when it comes to her reasoning and her understanding.

All in all, it was a good appointment. I always love going to the doctor's office to hear how she is doing. I am so blessed to have a healthy and intelligent little girl.

Elizabeth is 18 Months Old

My sweet baby girl turns 18 Months Old today. I just cannot believe it! Every day I am reminded that she is not a little baby anymore...she is a toddler. I have to say that I love this stage. Elizabeth is curious, active, and always on the move. She has such a cute personality...and quite the temper if she does not get her way!

Elizabeth, since you are turning 18 months old, we wanted to share 18 things that we love about you...

1. Your cheesy grin!
2. Your concern for others.
3. Your "kissies".
   
4. Your giggles.
   
5. You snuggle to avoid being put in your car seat.
6. You constantly go to the candy drawer, pick out a treat, bring it to us wherever we are in the house, and sign candy.
   
7. You dance every time you hear music.
8. You wave hello to strangers everywhere we go.
9. You go nuts when we try to restrain you.
   
10. Your rebelliousness (most of the time).
11. Your beautiful blue eyes.
12. You sleep through the night.
13. Your one-eyed "popeye" smile.
14. You say "mama" even when you are asked to say "dada".
15. You love to read books with us.
16. You are fascinated with light switches.
17. You sign "daddy" whenever dad leaves and constantly throughout the day.
18. You greet us with a big smile and a hug when we return from being apart from you.