Juliet had her six month check-up with her NICU doctors this week. Let’s compare, shall we?
Birth Weight: 2 pounds, 10 ounces (1200 grams)
Six Months: 12 pounds, 10 ounces (5735 grams)
Birth Height: 15 inches (? honestly, that’s still a blur)
Six Months: 23 inches
First, we met with a physical therapist. A first for Juliet! The PT was really impressed with Juliet’s rolling abilities. She’s not so impressed with her sitting abilities. We were sent on our merry way with strict instructions and exercises. Since Juliet’s legs are more developed and WAY stronger than her belly, we’re not allowed to let Juliet stand on our laps anymore until she’s sitting on her own, unsupported. A small price to pay to help with her development. If she doesn’t develop her core now, her standing unassisted and eventual walking will be delayed. As much as I joke about not being ready for Juliet’s mobility, I certainly don’t want it to be delayed.
We’re also supposed to get Juliet interested in her feet. You would think my six month old would love her feet. Quite the opposite. She loves hands. She loves holding her own hands but especially loves holding our hands. Especially when she’s eating!
After her Physical Therapy we met with her neonatal doctor. When he came into the room, you could tell her was shocked at her progress! He was the doctor that agreed with me when I put my foot down and said “She needs to come home!” He was impressed that she’s obviously thriving since coming home. He’s concerned that with the introduction of solid foods, her weight will begin to taper off. Seeing as she’s still gulping down 25-30 ounces of formula and eating up to three packets of solids a day, I don’t really see her weight going anywhere but up!
It’s still so hard for me to wrap my head around the fact that in six, short months, Juliet went from this:
to this:
Looking at the difference in these pictures really has me excited to see how much she’ll change in another six months!
*kisses*
Dear Juliet, I know sit ups aren’t much fun, but if you want Baby Abs, you have to pay the price! You’ve inspired me to go do a few!
Love you, BIG girl!
I am so glad I read this; I will be sure to try and do the same when we are together! Also, can I request she wear that batman outfit at my house!! OMG I love it!! Keep it up juliet!!
Juliet looks amazing. Isn’t it the best feeling when her medical team gives positive feedback about how far she’s come? I look at our 16-month old and how he interacts with the other toddlers in his daycare and cannot believe he made his entry into the world far too soon. After a while, you begin to feel silly calling them a preemie, because they really do catch up. Go Juliet!
She is so beautiful! I’m so proud of you AND her for coming so far on this journey. You’re some seriously tough cookies!