6 month check-ups

Both boys had their six month check-ups today.  Dr. Kim walked in the room and said "I am so happy with Ethan's growth!"  That started the visit well...and it really continued.  We spent most of the time talking about Ethan and his overall health.  From his standpoint, he is happy with what he sees (ears are clear, heart sounds good, etc.).  You know, the things the general pediatrician checks.  Then we talked about Ethan's torticollis (the muscle in his neck that is knotted and hard, causing him to have restricted movement to his left).  I told him we aren't really seeing any improvement with his physical therapy.  He gave us the first referal of three...to see a cranial-facial doctor.  They have different surgeries and procedures they can do to relieve the muscle.  One newer procedure is done endoscopically, so we will go see what they have to say.  The sooner we get it fixed, the less of a problem he should have with the shape of his face.  Then we talked about his lack of strength in his legs.  Eventually, we will probably see an orthopedist (second "eventual" referal) to talk about some braces or options for strengthening his legs.  However, he was encouraging about what Ethan is already doing - stretching his legs out straight and holding them up.  He just tends to get "frog-leggy" and lazy...and that is the concern for his development later on (for crawling, walking etc.).  It can also cause problems with his hips.  The third referal was to a cardiologist.  I felt like this one was coming and kind of wonder why we haven't seen one yet (we've seen just about every other kind!).  Ethan has a pectus, or an indention in his chest.  Dr. Kim (and mommy and daddy) want some assurance that this isn't causing any restrictions on his heart or lungs.

So some of the things we talked about today are potentially "scary," but I think it will be good to get the experts' opinions...and hopefully we can rule out or take care of any problems before they become REAL problems.

Colin is just doing great.  His only "problem" is his eczema.  So far, we've had good results using a combination of a prescription creme and Aquaphor.  He is sitting up unassisted although still wobbly. He is also doing really well sleeping, finally.  He is eating solids and loves his new Yummy Spoonfuls green peas.  Someone put on Facebook "he likes them for now!"  I'm hoping both boys will just be good eaters of a variety of fruits and vegetables.  I am not sure I can bring myself to feed them baby food meat, so who knows about THAT part of eating!  We'll figure something out!