This month has been a roller coaster ride of emotions. Sweet baby Elsa was diagnosed with Down Syndrome shortly after she reached 5 months, which was a shock to us all. While I wish I could say I took it all in stride (like my amazing husband) I did not. Instead I’ve been worried sick about her and what lies ahead, which is totally pointless.
I have to keep reminding myself that Elsa will still be able to live a great life. She can see, hear, taste, touch, feel emotions, and she will be able to walk and talk. Heck, she might even be happier with her life than most typical people are.
DEVELOPMENT
Last week we met with Elsa’s physical therapist and a developmental specialist who will be working with her on a regular basis to make sure she is progressing towards important mile stones. Elsa was particularly fond of our physical therapist and giggled and smiled almost the entire session.
At her physical therapy evaluation, we all agreed that Elsa is unusually strong (must be the baby Pilates moves she busts out every day) and quite determined to get up and move around, both of which are very important to her development. Our first goal: sitting up.
SIZE
Elsa is now in size 2 diapers and 9-12 months clothes. We won’t get her weight and height measurements until her appointment next week but she is definitely thriving.
FOODS
Speaking of thriving, Elsa loves food. Now that she has been introduced to some tasty solids, she gets jealous when she sees that the rest of the family is eating and starts gnawing on her chubby little wrists. So far she’s had avocado, banana, scrambled egg, butternut squash, carrots, peas, pears, apples, and sweet potatoes. Whew!
CURRENTLY LOVING
HONEST COMPANY DETANGLER :: The hair on the back of Elsa’s head gets pretty damaged and wraps itself around fuzz creating tangles of the worst sort. This detangler smells like a cream sickle and gets those snags out lickedy split. Her hair even looks healthier after just a few uses.
OLD NAVY FOOTED SLEEPERS :: The zipper variety, of course. These newborn essentials come in such sweet prints. I always wait for the 50% off sales to stock up.
THE DOWN SYNDROME COMMUNITY :: I cannot believe the amazing support network offered by the various Down Syndrome groups in our area, both medical and community-based. This week we will be meeting with the Down Syndrome Center of Pittsburgh in the Children’s Hospital. This group already sent us a welcome package and made a friendly phone call to introduce themselves.
