Well, let's see. PJ's very first tooth finally made it's appearance a few days ago. He's 10 months old. A little late, but they say EVERYTHING on our babies has the opportunity to be delayed.
He's pulling up to stand, and scoot/crawling, or trying anyway. He started clapping his hands about two weeks ago.
The meds they started him on for his thyroid is making him sick to his stomach, and otherwise not feeling well. He gets to see the Dr. for that on Tuesday, so we'll see if any adjustments can be made. His regular pediatrician prescribed him zantac (liquid form) to help with the spitting up, it's been an ongoing problem, but has been exacerbated by this newest med. Poor baby. Anyway, I think that's about it for now. Thanks for checking in.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Friday, July 11, 2008
Hypothyroidism
Apparently it's quite common in individuals with Down syndrome. I'm just learning about it now, so any explanation you get here is is likely sketchy and vague.
Back in March, PJ's regular pediatrician ordered a blood draw to check his thyroid, as is the norm for our kids. They have to check every so often. At that time, his numbers were at the high end of "normal", just a "keep an eye on" thing.
Last week, PJ finally got to go to the DS clinic, at Duke Medical Center (one of NC's two Top 10 Hospitals in the country) where they took some more blood. Yesterday, I got an email advising me of an appointment with a Pediatric Endocrinologist for 7/29/08. So, I called to ask what it was for. I was told it was his thyroid, but the appointment secretary I spoke with didn't have any more info than that. Next I called the regular ped's to get his numbers from March. His TSH was 5.56, and his T4 was 1. Ok, I really don't still much understand what this means, but shortly after that, the Ped.Endo office called to tell me that PJ needs to be taking a daily medicine, starting immediately, so I went to pick up the RX from the local pharmacy today, and will start giving him his meds tomorrow (has to be on an empty stomach)The person who called to advise me of the need for meds told me that his TSD was now at 10.29, and T4 was at 1.15. I still don't know what this means, but I can see that something has gone way up. (way being a relative term, since I don't know if that's a large increase or not) This condition will be treated for life, but appears to be a simple fix. I'll know more after the 29th, and I hope that the only changes I see in him after being on the meds are positive, maybe growing a little? He's a real shorty. Maybe bowel regulating? Maybe sleeping better? IDK.
On other stuff about my boy, his PT is working with him on cruising the couch, and crawling. I "caught" him several times today attempting the "crawl" He's 10 months old tomorrow. He's eaten a few things with consistency, Gerber makes a snack called "puffs" about the size of a cheerio, made with real fruit, and it kind of breaks apart on first bite, hence the name "puffs" - he's hooked, and is even picking them up off his tray and getting them into his mouth (raking, not pinching - but still pretty cool) He had some lo mein the other day when mom took Becca, PJ and me to lunch at a chinese restaurant and totally dug that. Still no teeth, but I'm not worried, I've been told and have read that teeth are slow in coming very often in our babies. So, that's about it for now, just two more months till his first birthday, the time goes by SO SO SO fast. We went to the park last week, here he is, enjoying the swing.
Back in March, PJ's regular pediatrician ordered a blood draw to check his thyroid, as is the norm for our kids. They have to check every so often. At that time, his numbers were at the high end of "normal", just a "keep an eye on" thing.
Last week, PJ finally got to go to the DS clinic, at Duke Medical Center (one of NC's two Top 10 Hospitals in the country) where they took some more blood. Yesterday, I got an email advising me of an appointment with a Pediatric Endocrinologist for 7/29/08. So, I called to ask what it was for. I was told it was his thyroid, but the appointment secretary I spoke with didn't have any more info than that. Next I called the regular ped's to get his numbers from March. His TSH was 5.56, and his T4 was 1. Ok, I really don't still much understand what this means, but shortly after that, the Ped.Endo office called to tell me that PJ needs to be taking a daily medicine, starting immediately, so I went to pick up the RX from the local pharmacy today, and will start giving him his meds tomorrow (has to be on an empty stomach)The person who called to advise me of the need for meds told me that his TSD was now at 10.29, and T4 was at 1.15. I still don't know what this means, but I can see that something has gone way up. (way being a relative term, since I don't know if that's a large increase or not) This condition will be treated for life, but appears to be a simple fix. I'll know more after the 29th, and I hope that the only changes I see in him after being on the meds are positive, maybe growing a little? He's a real shorty. Maybe bowel regulating? Maybe sleeping better? IDK.
On other stuff about my boy, his PT is working with him on cruising the couch, and crawling. I "caught" him several times today attempting the "crawl" He's 10 months old tomorrow. He's eaten a few things with consistency, Gerber makes a snack called "puffs" about the size of a cheerio, made with real fruit, and it kind of breaks apart on first bite, hence the name "puffs" - he's hooked, and is even picking them up off his tray and getting them into his mouth (raking, not pinching - but still pretty cool) He had some lo mein the other day when mom took Becca, PJ and me to lunch at a chinese restaurant and totally dug that. Still no teeth, but I'm not worried, I've been told and have read that teeth are slow in coming very often in our babies. So, that's about it for now, just two more months till his first birthday, the time goes by SO SO SO fast. We went to the park last week, here he is, enjoying the swing.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Explosion of new abilities
Yesterday was PJ's 9 month check up. I got to go over all that he can do with his Dr. It seems that his gross motor has just exploded, every day something new just about. His speech (vocal sounds) is coming right along, too. I think soon it will be time to get him OT, maybe I need to talk to his services coordinator and see when we can do this.
Monday he started sitting up on his own, and now, Saturday, he's a pro at it. Yesterday he started getting up on hands and knees and rocking back and forth. He wants to crawl sooooo bad, but his coordination needs work. he ends up face planting during the first step of an attempted crawl. I'm glad he's a tough little dude. He also is trying to pull up to standing, as of yesterday; hence the blog title - Something just seems to have clicked for him.
His Dr. also found a little indentation on the front bottom gum, where she is sure a tooth is. It may still be awhile, but at least I know to look out for it.
His naps are finally falling into place, and he takes 2 a day, at least one hour each, sometimes longer. (yay!)
Stats from check up:
Weight - 19 pounds
Length - 25-1/2 inches
Head Circ. - 18-1/4 inches
Monday he started sitting up on his own, and now, Saturday, he's a pro at it. Yesterday he started getting up on hands and knees and rocking back and forth. He wants to crawl sooooo bad, but his coordination needs work. he ends up face planting during the first step of an attempted crawl. I'm glad he's a tough little dude. He also is trying to pull up to standing, as of yesterday; hence the blog title - Something just seems to have clicked for him.
His Dr. also found a little indentation on the front bottom gum, where she is sure a tooth is. It may still be awhile, but at least I know to look out for it.
His naps are finally falling into place, and he takes 2 a day, at least one hour each, sometimes longer. (yay!)
Stats from check up:
Weight - 19 pounds
Length - 25-1/2 inches
Head Circ. - 18-1/4 inches
Monday, June 23, 2008
9 - 1 - 4
9 months, 1 week, 4 days.
Approximately 2 months after he began sitting up when placed in that position, Little PJ is now getting himself to sitting. He was sitting up in his crib this morning when I went to get him from his first nap, and has done it several times since. I'm so happy for him, and he's pretty happy for himself. Grinning from ear to ear with all the applause and cheers directed at him today. My husband will lament that we don't own a video camera, as do I. If I had one, you'd all see it too! *sigh*
yay PJ, you absolutely rock my world.
Approximately 2 months after he began sitting up when placed in that position, Little PJ is now getting himself to sitting. He was sitting up in his crib this morning when I went to get him from his first nap, and has done it several times since. I'm so happy for him, and he's pretty happy for himself. Grinning from ear to ear with all the applause and cheers directed at him today. My husband will lament that we don't own a video camera, as do I. If I had one, you'd all see it too! *sigh*
yay PJ, you absolutely rock my world.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
My Little Man is 9 Months Old!
Well, he will be on Thursday (the 12th) It goes by so quickly.
Here's a list of things he does now
He pivots, mostly to the left. In fact, he'll turn a full circle most times to avoid going to the right, even when whatever he wants is closer to his right.
He rolls, front to back, back to front, all over the place.
He's starting to try out getting on his knees and elbows. Arms are still a bit week for knees and hands.
He's grabbing and mouthing EVERYTHING. He shakes rattles, tears up his playroom. Jumps up and down on laps, and in his jumperoo.
He gives big ol' wet kisses, when begged.
He eats breakfast, lunch and dinner. He's still taking a bottle, and has no interest in holding it himself, so we haven't even bothered with trying a straw cup yet.
He gives huge smiles, and every once in a while he chuckles, but I'm still waiting for the big belly shaking laughs. - Part of this laugh thing is that he seems to think that a big hardy laugh is crying, and so when we laugh, he gets confused, like he's made us cry. I know he'll get it eventually.
He says da da da, bla bla bla, dla dla dla, and every now and again - ma ma ma, but honestly, I'm pretty sure it's just practice noises at this point.
He blows raspberries, and he really enjoys them with a mouth full of baby food. Usually that's when I've decided he's had enough.
Naps are still hit and miss, mostly miss. Bed time is any where from 7pm to 8pm and he sleeps till 5:30 or 6am. Here's the latest pics of him..
Here's a list of things he does now
He pivots, mostly to the left. In fact, he'll turn a full circle most times to avoid going to the right, even when whatever he wants is closer to his right.
He rolls, front to back, back to front, all over the place.
He's starting to try out getting on his knees and elbows. Arms are still a bit week for knees and hands.
He's grabbing and mouthing EVERYTHING. He shakes rattles, tears up his playroom. Jumps up and down on laps, and in his jumperoo.
He gives big ol' wet kisses, when begged.
He eats breakfast, lunch and dinner. He's still taking a bottle, and has no interest in holding it himself, so we haven't even bothered with trying a straw cup yet.
He gives huge smiles, and every once in a while he chuckles, but I'm still waiting for the big belly shaking laughs. - Part of this laugh thing is that he seems to think that a big hardy laugh is crying, and so when we laugh, he gets confused, like he's made us cry. I know he'll get it eventually.
He says da da da, bla bla bla, dla dla dla, and every now and again - ma ma ma, but honestly, I'm pretty sure it's just practice noises at this point.
He blows raspberries, and he really enjoys them with a mouth full of baby food. Usually that's when I've decided he's had enough.
Naps are still hit and miss, mostly miss. Bed time is any where from 7pm to 8pm and he sleeps till 5:30 or 6am. Here's the latest pics of him..
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Thursday, April 17, 2008
7 months
PJ is 7 months and 5 days old today. It's going by so quickly, my head is in a constant state of spin. As of 2 weeks ago, we're in his 3rd residence. We found a mobile home for rent about 3 miles from mom's house. It's only 2 years old, and so it's in excellent condition. Our landlords live right next door and they are good people. Country people. The back yard is HUGE, with a big ol' oak tree just before the woods line with a rope and plank swing, which Becca and the granddaughters have already decided is really fun. The landlords keep bird, squirrel and deer feeders going, and so wild life abounds! There's also resident wild turkey hens, which scared the dickens outta me first time I saw them. We're happy to be "home". The unpacking and picture hanging is almost complete. Life is good. We're content.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Updates on a few things
Sorry for the delay in between updates, there’s always something to update about, but hardly seems to be the time to sit and get it done.
Thyroid: PJ’s blood test was done last week, (which he did very well at, I should add) All within normal range. I don’t have the numbers, but the Ped’s office called and told me he’s ok. yay.
Rolling: Yes, he’s rolling over, he can roll from front to back, but prefers back to front, and always to his right. He’s been consistently rolling over now for about 2 weeks, and the other night, rolled in his sleep. It woke us up, because he sleeps in his pack-n-play right now, in our room and it was too difficult to roll back over, and his grunting woke us up.
Space: He’s sleeping in his pack-n-play because there’s not enough room in our room at my mom’s for his crib, which is in storage, along with most everything else we own, since we moved here end of October, 2007. We finally found a house to rent. PJ will have his own room, Becca, of course will have her own room. It’s only about 2 or 3 miles from my mom’s. It’s a very nice house. We lucked out. The landlords are a very nice couple, in their mid 60’s, who live right next door. They are really nice and seemed to like us, and we’re going over this evening to give them a deposit, and if all goes like it’s supposed to, we’ll be moving this weekend. The only downside is even though it’s close, it’s out of the elementary school’s zone that Rebecca goes to, so we’ll be delaying notifying the school of the move until end of school year. Sweet deal that it is in the correct zone for the correct Middle school, so all will be fine after May of this year. I’m going to continue being a stay at home mom for now, please keep Daniel in your thoughts, it’s very hard on him.
More to come, when there’s more to tell.
hugs to all!!
Thyroid: PJ’s blood test was done last week, (which he did very well at, I should add) All within normal range. I don’t have the numbers, but the Ped’s office called and told me he’s ok. yay.
Rolling: Yes, he’s rolling over, he can roll from front to back, but prefers back to front, and always to his right. He’s been consistently rolling over now for about 2 weeks, and the other night, rolled in his sleep. It woke us up, because he sleeps in his pack-n-play right now, in our room and it was too difficult to roll back over, and his grunting woke us up.
Space: He’s sleeping in his pack-n-play because there’s not enough room in our room at my mom’s for his crib, which is in storage, along with most everything else we own, since we moved here end of October, 2007. We finally found a house to rent. PJ will have his own room, Becca, of course will have her own room. It’s only about 2 or 3 miles from my mom’s. It’s a very nice house. We lucked out. The landlords are a very nice couple, in their mid 60’s, who live right next door. They are really nice and seemed to like us, and we’re going over this evening to give them a deposit, and if all goes like it’s supposed to, we’ll be moving this weekend. The only downside is even though it’s close, it’s out of the elementary school’s zone that Rebecca goes to, so we’ll be delaying notifying the school of the move until end of school year. Sweet deal that it is in the correct zone for the correct Middle school, so all will be fine after May of this year. I’m going to continue being a stay at home mom for now, please keep Daniel in your thoughts, it’s very hard on him.
More to come, when there’s more to tell.
hugs to all!!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Monday, March 17, 2008
6 months old
He doesn't always look so sleepy, it's the flash on the camera. He blinks! almost every time. It seems that this time in his life has him becoming more aware, more alert, and enjoying his jumperoo and his exersaucer. Finally. I've been putting him in them for the last 2 months or so, only to take him out right away because he doesn't want to be there. Over the past week or two, he's actually starting to like them, giving me a wonderful opportunity to put something ELSE in my arms. Like laundry, or vacuum, or nothing if I so choose. His floor time doesn't seem like such a waste anymore, either. He'll lift up really well when on his tummy, actually scooting around in a circle over time. (accidental, I think, but still...) And from his back, he turns to his side for a better view of what's around. Fine motor still a little sluggish.. even though he wants to put a toy in his mouth, he usually ends up dragging it across his face until he finds his mouth, only to discover it's his hand going in, not the toy. I know he'll get there, and he's teaching me to be a more patient person.
A trip to the ENT last week was totally fruitless. His little ears are soooo tiny, that they were unable to see in them, or get a hearing test done. I know he can hear, I don't fear hearing loss, but I guess it's something our babies have issues with, and the clinic wanted to know. We'll go back in 3 months to try again. Next week is his 6 months check up and blood draw for thyroid. He still has a clogged tear duct, not sure when we deal with that. It's not horrible, he's just always got one mildly goopy eye. That's it from here for now. More updates soon!!
Thursday, March 6, 2008
echocardiogram
Well, PJ had his repeat echo today, out at the Children's Health Center at Duke Hospital. (It's where the DS clinic is) The Dr. was very nice. He didn't have the pictures from PJ's original echo that was done in Nashville, TN at the age of 2 weeks. In that first echo, we became aware of an ASD (atrial septal defect) measuring about 5mm in length. At that time, the Dr. was not too concerned, he wanted to repeat the echo after 3 months because he felt confident it would close up on it's own. Well, it's not gone completely, but it has closed up quite a bit, leaving only two small pin hole sized holes, which, the Dr. says, would be more trouble to close than to just leave alone, and that he doesn't need to see us again for 3 years. So, that's good. One concern he DID bring up is PJ's growth pattern. Apparently, on the DS growth chart, PJ places in slightly OVER the 50th percentile for weight, but UNDER the 5th percentile for length. He's a short, fat little boy. Well, if you've ever met his parents, you'd know why. But if that's not the reason why, then it could be his thyroid. We have his 6 month checkup scheduled for later this month, at which time they'll draw blood to test his thryroid functions. I'll let you know, when I know. 6 more days, and PJ will be 6 months old!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
5 months old today
5 months old today
Current mood: adored
Hello everyone. I wanted to post a commemoration to PJ's 5 month birthday. He's doing very well. He smiles a lot, even has decided his grandma is worthy of smiles, which pleases her a great deal. He's eating cereal and baby food now, the only thing he really doesn't like is peas, but if you mix in apple sauce, he'll even eat that! He has turned over a couple of times, probably by accident, since he wont do it repetitively. He loves chewing on his hands, or my hands, or his grandma's chin, and has a VERY strong bite! Thankfully, no teeth popping thru yet. He's even made himself cry by biting down on his own fingers so hard. Strong jaws! He ooohs and aaahs, and if he's mad, he grunts and sounds petulant and demanding. He barely naps, but sleeps all night, from about 8pm to about 6 am. His developmental therapy has been increased from once a month to weekly starting this week, so we'll see how well he tolerates all the additional floor time. He is scheduled for an evaluation later this month, so that a few specialists can see him and recommend what other therapies he might need, ie speech, physical, occupational.
He's grown soo much. When first born, all of his newborn clothes were too big. If it wasn't preemie, it was huge. He's gone from those, to newborn, to 0-3 months and now fits nicely in most 3 months, or 3-6 months. He's made it up to a size 2 diaper. His hair is returning, and I just love him to pieces! So, that's it from the home front. I hope you all have a nice Valentine's Day!!
Hugs,
Kathy
Current mood: adored
Hello everyone. I wanted to post a commemoration to PJ's 5 month birthday. He's doing very well. He smiles a lot, even has decided his grandma is worthy of smiles, which pleases her a great deal. He's eating cereal and baby food now, the only thing he really doesn't like is peas, but if you mix in apple sauce, he'll even eat that! He has turned over a couple of times, probably by accident, since he wont do it repetitively. He loves chewing on his hands, or my hands, or his grandma's chin, and has a VERY strong bite! Thankfully, no teeth popping thru yet. He's even made himself cry by biting down on his own fingers so hard. Strong jaws! He ooohs and aaahs, and if he's mad, he grunts and sounds petulant and demanding. He barely naps, but sleeps all night, from about 8pm to about 6 am. His developmental therapy has been increased from once a month to weekly starting this week, so we'll see how well he tolerates all the additional floor time. He is scheduled for an evaluation later this month, so that a few specialists can see him and recommend what other therapies he might need, ie speech, physical, occupational.
He's grown soo much. When first born, all of his newborn clothes were too big. If it wasn't preemie, it was huge. He's gone from those, to newborn, to 0-3 months and now fits nicely in most 3 months, or 3-6 months. He's made it up to a size 2 diaper. His hair is returning, and I just love him to pieces! So, that's it from the home front. I hope you all have a nice Valentine's Day!!
Hugs,
Kathy
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
could it be? another blog about my marvelous son?
could it be? another blog about my marvelous son?
Category: Life
Hi all. Today PJ had his 4 month check up and shots, and even though he's 4 months and 10 days, I figured I'd give you his stats...
He now weighs 13 pounds, 5 ounces. (12th percentile)
He is 22-1/2 inches in length, (5th percentile) the little shorty (although to be fair, he was only 17 inches at birth, so he's grown 5-1/2 inches)
His head is 16-3/4 inches circumference, (50th percentile) yay! his brains are getting bigger!!
Dr. is very pleased with his overall growth and health. he got 4 shots in his widdu wegs today, needless to say, he's doing a lot of whining intermingled with a lot of napping. One of the shots was the synergis shot, which he'll get monthly from now until March, I think - that's the one that protects against RSV. Yay!! With so many other things to worry about, it's nice not to have to worry about that!
A couple of weeks ago, I started him on some vitamins, made specifically for people with DS, because the extra chromosome somehow makes proper absorption of certain vitamins very difficult. The effects of these supplements are to help strengthen immune system, and battle against Alzheimer's. Did you know that over 50% of young adults with Down syndrome get Alzheimer's? One of the added benefits of this supplement is that it supposedly helps learning and memory function. I honestly don't know if it's true, and my giving him the vitamins aren't dependent upon his mental function. It's about keeping him healthy for as long as possible. But, if it does work for that too, then what a bonus, huh? For him to be capable and independant in the future would be simply golden.
Love to all,
Kathy
p.s.
Without intending to, I've become a sort of an advocate for TNI (targeted nutritional intervention) There are 2 companies that make the vitamins, and both will send you a free sample.
http://www.nutrivene.com/
http://www.nutrichem.com/
One is a USA company, and one is Canadian. The Canadian company adds flavor to their compound so that it's more pleasant mixed in with formula or baby food. But the USA one seems to only provide the vitamins that are needed, and nothing that's not. If you have the time, check out the yahoo group, " DSTNI " Dr. Lawrence Leichtman frequents there and he's someone all parents of children with DS should know of.
Category: Life
Hi all. Today PJ had his 4 month check up and shots, and even though he's 4 months and 10 days, I figured I'd give you his stats...
He now weighs 13 pounds, 5 ounces. (12th percentile)
He is 22-1/2 inches in length, (5th percentile) the little shorty (although to be fair, he was only 17 inches at birth, so he's grown 5-1/2 inches)
His head is 16-3/4 inches circumference, (50th percentile) yay! his brains are getting bigger!!
Dr. is very pleased with his overall growth and health. he got 4 shots in his widdu wegs today, needless to say, he's doing a lot of whining intermingled with a lot of napping. One of the shots was the synergis shot, which he'll get monthly from now until March, I think - that's the one that protects against RSV. Yay!! With so many other things to worry about, it's nice not to have to worry about that!
A couple of weeks ago, I started him on some vitamins, made specifically for people with DS, because the extra chromosome somehow makes proper absorption of certain vitamins very difficult. The effects of these supplements are to help strengthen immune system, and battle against Alzheimer's. Did you know that over 50% of young adults with Down syndrome get Alzheimer's? One of the added benefits of this supplement is that it supposedly helps learning and memory function. I honestly don't know if it's true, and my giving him the vitamins aren't dependent upon his mental function. It's about keeping him healthy for as long as possible. But, if it does work for that too, then what a bonus, huh? For him to be capable and independant in the future would be simply golden.
Love to all,
Kathy
p.s.
Without intending to, I've become a sort of an advocate for TNI (targeted nutritional intervention) There are 2 companies that make the vitamins, and both will send you a free sample.
http://www.nutrivene.com/
http://www.nutrichem.com/
One is a USA company, and one is Canadian. The Canadian company adds flavor to their compound so that it's more pleasant mixed in with formula or baby food. But the USA one seems to only provide the vitamins that are needed, and nothing that's not. If you have the time, check out the yahoo group, " DSTNI " Dr. Lawrence Leichtman frequents there and he's someone all parents of children with DS should know of.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Four months old
Four months ago today, my little miracle came into the world. He is so sweet and yes, a little spoiled. If I decided today to stop spoiling him and be "tough" with him, he'd still get spoiled by Grandma, Sissy, and Daddy, so what the heck, right? Anyway, I just needed to commemorate this day, and a blog seemed appropriate.
As far as milestones, the one I'd hoped he'd reach by now and hasn't done yet is turning over. So far he just doesn't seem interested.
He grabs for toys that are within reach, including his sisters hair.
He recognizes my voice and my face, and graces me with a big smile. He does this for his daddy, and his big sissy, too. Grandma he's still a little not too sure of, and so far, he's withholding smiles from her.
He kicks and stands supported.
He talks to his sissy (oooooooo) and today he sang with her (again, oooooo)
I started spoon feeding him a week ago, oatmeal. He likes it, and there's enough fiber in it to help keep the constipation away. (yay)
That's it for this update, take care all.
hugs,
kathy
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Reflections and forward thoughts
For the new year of 2008
Current mood: 
Category: Life
My life encountered a whole bunch of changes in 2007.
I found out I was to have a baby. - shocker of the century
I found out my baby was to have down syndrome.
I lost my job.
My husband lost his job.
PJ was born.
We ended up moving away from our home of 4 years.
We moved into my mom's now very crowded house to begin again.
There are at least a dozen more, but you get the drift. I guess the beginning of a new calendar year, for me, doesn't necessarily signify a new beginning. I've had a lot of new beginnings, and not one that I can think of correspond with 01/01 of any given year.
Daniel is working, full-time (almost) since Thanksgiving, so that's good. We're hoping he can find a better paying job, so that I can continue to stay home with PJ. I just don't know what I'll do if my only option is to leave him. It was very hard with Rebecca when she was 7 weeks old, but I'm sure I'll really have a breakdown if I have to do it with PJ - my eyes tear up when I even think about it.
So, I'm still struggling with county, state and federal agencies on PJ's behalf, I've learned a good deal about "the system" but am still a novice, I'm sure. I have a new family, too. They are the parent's and siblings and individuals themselves with down syndrome. It's different than a club, because you voluntarily join a club. It's a family because very few of us asked to be in it. I don't want to make it sound like I'm unhappy in this new family, because I'm not, at all. My new family is huge, and loving, and supportive, and experienced, and educated, and they happily share any and all relevant knowledge. They are always ready with a tissue, a shoulder, or kudos and praise, whichever happens to be appropriate.
So, in closing, I want you all to know that I wish you a wonderful 2008, but that it already started, days ago. I wish for you a flu-free winter, an unexpected visit that brings laughter and rest for your worries; time enough with family, and all the love your hearts can handle, with some spilling over.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Christmas Update
Yesterday was PJ's follow up at the pediatrician's office. I really like those people. Anyway, after all is said and done, his lungs sounded perfectly clear. No need to re-do the x-rays, because he's feeling so good. No fever, great appetite, great color, energetic and happy. He is 14 wks old yesterday, or 3 months and one week. 11 pounds, 8 oz. His appetite is second only to his daddy's. lol.
Rebecca is adjusting to life in North Carolina well, although she misses her friends, and hasn't found a "best friend" like she had in Tennessee. She's doing great in school, and is finally (fingers crossed) outgrowing her tomboy stage, even asked me for some "girly" clothes for Christmas.
Daniel is working full-time. He seems happier here in NC, too. We've only gotten to go visit his family once since being back, but that's because PJ was sick for 3 weeks. I think we'll be going to see them the weekend after Christmas.
My mom has adjusted pretty well to our being here, taking over her house. We try to respect her boundaries, and she has friends that she goes out with, social activities to get her mind off of us, and she loves hanging out with Rebecca. They go places together, to the movies, shopping, etc. Becca loves her grandma, too.
With all the stress of my topsy-turvy life, my skin has decided that it's all-out war, and I cannot get it back to decent looking. It's red, red, red! And SOOOOO dry. Doesn't matter what cleanser I use, or what moisturizer, it's irritated beyond belief. I remember it being this way last time we lived in NC. I need to see a dermatologist, I guess. Maybe now that PJ is better it will calm down some. I'm not sure how I feel about anything, not having the time to look inward. I guess I'm glad we're here, but I really miss Spring Hill, TN, and the friends we made, and were making, the life we had. It sucks having to start over, with medical bills galore, no money, not even for a place of our own. Sorry, I'm whining. Enough of that crap. I am thankful for family. For my beautiful children. For my husband who has been supportive and understanding of my inability to leave PJ in someone else's care and go find a job to help bail us out. I just can't do it. Not yet. He's starting to give us those smiles, you know the ones, the ones that say - "Hey - I know you, and I think you are the best!" Better late than never, right?
Merry Christmas to all, and Happy New Year, too.
Much love from me to you.
Kathy
Rebecca is adjusting to life in North Carolina well, although she misses her friends, and hasn't found a "best friend" like she had in Tennessee. She's doing great in school, and is finally (fingers crossed) outgrowing her tomboy stage, even asked me for some "girly" clothes for Christmas.
Daniel is working full-time. He seems happier here in NC, too. We've only gotten to go visit his family once since being back, but that's because PJ was sick for 3 weeks. I think we'll be going to see them the weekend after Christmas.
My mom has adjusted pretty well to our being here, taking over her house. We try to respect her boundaries, and she has friends that she goes out with, social activities to get her mind off of us, and she loves hanging out with Rebecca. They go places together, to the movies, shopping, etc. Becca loves her grandma, too.
With all the stress of my topsy-turvy life, my skin has decided that it's all-out war, and I cannot get it back to decent looking. It's red, red, red! And SOOOOO dry. Doesn't matter what cleanser I use, or what moisturizer, it's irritated beyond belief. I remember it being this way last time we lived in NC. I need to see a dermatologist, I guess. Maybe now that PJ is better it will calm down some. I'm not sure how I feel about anything, not having the time to look inward. I guess I'm glad we're here, but I really miss Spring Hill, TN, and the friends we made, and were making, the life we had. It sucks having to start over, with medical bills galore, no money, not even for a place of our own. Sorry, I'm whining. Enough of that crap. I am thankful for family. For my beautiful children. For my husband who has been supportive and understanding of my inability to leave PJ in someone else's care and go find a job to help bail us out. I just can't do it. Not yet. He's starting to give us those smiles, you know the ones, the ones that say - "Hey - I know you, and I think you are the best!" Better late than never, right?
Merry Christmas to all, and Happy New Year, too.
Much love from me to you.
Kathy
Monday, December 10, 2007
pneumonia
I thought it was just a cold. I took him to the Dr. last week Thursday and she said it was bronchiolitis, so we started treating him for that (nebulizer). He wasn't any better today, so back we went. She sent us over to the hospital for a chest xray. By day's end she was calling, telling us there was a small amount of pneumonia present, and to go get the new prescription. He's on amoxicillan and prednazone. Daniel is a mess, he doesn't worry about things, he's a "I don't give a f_ _ _" kind of person, normally. I'm just waiting to see how much gray hair he has tomorrow morning. LOL.
I feel certain PJ will be fine, and won't need to be hospitalized, but if you pray, please include him.
Thanks and love to all,
Kathy
I feel certain PJ will be fine, and won't need to be hospitalized, but if you pray, please include him.
Thanks and love to all,
Kathy
Sunday, December 9, 2007
my first collage attempt
PJ has been sick for a week. I took him Thursday to the Dr. he has bronchiolitis, an upper respiratory infection. So, he gets a breathing treatment with a nebulizer every 4 hours. And lots of saline drops in his nose, and the bulb syringe (snot sucker). I think he started to feel better about an hour ago. It's been a stressful weekend, with me on the verge of running him to the ER every hour or so.
Phew!
Phew!
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
10 weeks old, today
LIttle PJ got his first set of shots today.
He was weighed and measured. He's 10 pounds, 4 ounces, and 20-1/2 inches long. This is a gain of 2 lbs, 4 oz, and an increase in length of 1 inch in a period of 4 weeks! He's so chubby now!
These pics were taken within the last day or so. (He's not feeling so hot right now).
He was weighed and measured. He's 10 pounds, 4 ounces, and 20-1/2 inches long. This is a gain of 2 lbs, 4 oz, and an increase in length of 1 inch in a period of 4 weeks! He's so chubby now!
These pics were taken within the last day or so. (He's not feeling so hot right now).
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
update on us
So far, Daniel hasn't been able to land a job, but is at an interview as I write this, and so I hope to be able to update with good news, soon! I've attached some pictures to this just so you can see my beautiful son! We went to Daniel's side of the state this holiday weekend, and introduced little PJ with his Nana, his Poppy, his aunts, uncles, cousins and his Grampa! Naturally, they all think he's beautiful!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
6 weeks old, where does it go?
Hello Everyone. Yesterday PJ was 6 weeks old. Today, I took him to his pediatrician, because his sinuses have been plugging up since the beginning, just about, and it's gotten to the point where it's disrupting his sleep, and interfering with his feeding. (poor baby ) Also, his eyes are junky, have been since the beginning, too.
The Dr. ran a thin little tube up each nostril to make sure there were no blockages, and thankfully, there weren't, then with the same teeny tube tried to suction out any mucous that is bothering him, and there really wasnt any. He's just got teeny tiny sinuses, I guess. He screamed throughout this fun time. (Can you say, STRESS?) Any way, unfortunately there's nothing to give him at this young age to relieve his pluggy sinuses. We have noticed, however that it's worse at night, or at naptime, so the Dr. recommended we elevate his head a bit for sleeping, and I put him on my bed, on a pillow, and he's been asleep now for 4 hours and not making that awful snorkeling sound, and not waking with every little sound, as he has been doing, I think for not sleeping well. Of course, I've not figured out how to do this same set up in his bassinette, but I'm working on it.
His tear ducts are clogged. His eyes get goopy. Dr says he'll need to see an eye Dr. but not yet. Probably around 6 months. I just wonder if they'll get better on their own, or if he'll have to have surgery. Same with his sinuses, will they open up? Or will he have to have surgery to fix them?
He's now 19-1/2 inches long, and 8 pounds, exactly! Just like a newborn baby, only he's 6 weeks old. So, in 6 weeks, his total weight gain is 2 pounds, 10 ounces, and in length he's gained 2 and a half inches. Not too shabby, huh?
Sunday, October 7, 2007
his eyes
Oh! What they do to me. They see into the very core of me. He understands the profound depth of my love for him. Those little almond shaped eyes, the window not only to his soul, but to my own. He is my heart, outside my body. God how I love this little man.
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