Long and Lean

We are back from Ella's 9 month check-up. We got to see our new doctor who is very nice and Ella really seemed to like her. Ella is doing great, growing right on track. The doctor thinks Ella will be crawling soon given her super strong core and ability to push up. We were given the green light to give most table foods except the usual: shellfish, peanuts, citrus, etc.

Ella had to have a finger prick so she could be tested for lead (standard if you live in an old house) and she needed a follow-up to a blood test from her newborn screening that showed an abnormality. She took the finger prick like a champ - cried a little while also chewing on Chewy Bear. She got a pretty shiny bandage too. (which I removed before nap because I didn't want her to eat it and choke).

Ella also got a referral to have a hip x-ray done at Children's. She has great range of motion, but her fat rolls don't match up, especially in the back, which can sometimes signal hip problems. Since it runs in the family, the doctor thought it best to have it checked out. Chances are good that it's nothing. Ella wasn't as amused to have us poking around at her fat rolls on her backside. Already a lady.

And of course, the visit wouldn't be complete without a shot. This time, just one. She did great. A few tears, but stopped crying as soon as I picked her up and cuddled her. I love that she'll wrap her arms around my neck and bury her face in my shoulder. It's so cute. Of course, she gets to go back in a couple of weeks for her flu shot, which they give babies in two doses...so she'll then have to return a couple of weeks later.

Here's her stats:

Height: 29.25 inches - 90%

Weight: 18.25 pounds - 50%

Head: 17 inches - 25%

She's currently napping but when she gets up, she'll have to have lunch! The doctor said she can start having three meals/day plus snacks. I have a feeling, all I'll be doing for awhile is preparing to feed Ella, feeding Ella or cleaning up from feeding Ella. Kind of like camping.

This picture is a week old, but Ella would like to take a moment to thank Chewy Bear for always being with her in good times and in bad, and for his patience as she gnaws on his ears, leaving him permanently damp and stinky.