GI followup

Tuesday, we went to see the GI for a follow up.  It was an incredibly quick visit, but we have no issues, so that's fine with me.  I mentioned that during her last GI switch, the Dr. at Baystate said she will need a new size GJ button soon.  So, the GI said to just mention that to the nurse when I schedule the next replacement.  Apparently, Eve will need to be unconscious as they size the stoma.  It doesn't sound terribly comfortable, and she guards that area as it is.  He then said that he wanted to increase her feeding rate.  I raised my eyebrows and said, "Really???"  He asked why, and I lifted her shirt and stuck my fingers under her belly flap.  Her tummy hangs over enough to cover nearly my entire fingers.  I asked him how much weight she put on since the visit in March (they weighed her in kg and I'm not good with metric).  He admitted 3 pounds.  I told him it had been 3 pounds in the 6 months prior to that visit, too.  I asked if that was typical weight gain for a typical 9 year old.  He said it was "generous" and agreed that we didn't need to increase her feeding rate for another 6 months, but warned me that it would catch up to us.  I understand, but am comfortable waiting until she either enters that range for a typical amount or falls below it before we increase the rate. 

Next up is a visit to the neuro next month.  I always look forward to this visit.  He is very helpful and manages several of her meds.  Added to the list of things to talk about with him is another possible seizure at school yesterday.  The last one was in February, I think.  She was fine when she got home.  Just a quick pain episode at the end of her shower, but when I got her on the couch and was going to grab the morphine, she relaxed.

Dentist

Today, Seamus went to the dentist for the second time ever.  He was so good last time, that they scheduled him for upstairs where the big kids go.  Here he is getting his teeth checked:

He kept his hands on the armrest like it was a command chair in a spaceship.  He happily let the hygienist and dentist look in his mouth and poke around.  He bit down, stuck out his tongue, etc. when asked.  I think they were a little stunned by how good he was.  The hygienist asked if it was his second or tenth time.  I know he's a good boy, but even I didn't expect him to be THAT good.  They even rinsed his mouth with a little water and sucked it out with the suction tool.  He followed directions and did exactly what was asked ("Close your mouth and spit.").  I saw her eyebrows raise over the glasses when he did it.  My little man.

First Day of School!

Yesterday was the first day of school for Eve and Seamus (and me).    Eve was super excited to be back with her friends.  She had a great day and was very tired today.  I think she's missing her naps, but the busyness of school is worth it!  Her classmates seem to be very comfortable with her, and some of those that are no longer in her class are quite sad.  Fortunately, there is lunch time and recess.  I can't believe my little girl is in third grade. 

Seamus started Preschool yesterday.  He was incredibly excited.  He wore his backpack around the house for at least 10 minutes before we left.  When we got to the school, he shouted, "We made it to Pine Cobble!"  I think he charmed everyone with his exuberance and easy going personality.  He gave Jim and I a hug and kiss and didn't look back. 

Oh, and my first day back in the classroom was great, too. It's good to be around the students.  I just love school (always have) and fall is my favorite season.