Instant Gratification

Elliott's workout routine is already paying dividends. He had his 18 month checkup yesterday. The doctor found him to be in great health. I don't know if Katie told Dr. Marks about Elliott's newfound dedication to physical fitness, but the results of his health plan are inarguable. His weight was up to 22.5 pounds, a pound and a half increase over his last visit but still in the 10th percentile (very normal and healthy growth according to the doctor). His height was up to 31 3/4 inches, an increase of several inches which vaulted him into the 50th percentile, the first time he's hit this plateau on any of the growth milestones. His head circumference was 18 1/2 inches, again putting him in the 25-50% range.

Dr. Marks then asked Katie about other developmental milestones typically reached at 18 months.

Dr. Marks: Can he speak 20 words?
Katie: Which language

Dr. Marks: Can he imitate words?
Katie: Often before you finish them.

Dr. Marks: Can he walk backwards?
Katie: Sometimes, but most of the time he runs.

Dr. Marks: Can he throw a ball
Katie: Not as much as he used to, the neighbors started complaining about it landing in their yard

Dr. Marks: Does he use two word phrases
Katie: Yes, he's especially keen on "George Bush" and "Fighting Irish".

Dr. Marks: Can he stack 3 blocks?
Katie: Yes, it actually makes a nice foundation for him to stack his hair gel bottles on.

Dr. Marks: Does he listen to stories?
Katie: Yes, but he prefers to read them.

Obviously Dr. Marks was quite impressed with our young man's progress. Probably not nearly as impressed as Elliott's dad, but then who is really.

We are grateful that God continues to have his hand on Elliott. We are grateful that he has been blessed with so much family interaction that has undoubtedly influenced his non-physical development (although I think that growing hat size has something to do with me). We trust that God will continue to watch over E's little brother and continue to give us the strength to watch over them both.

There is a poll on the side where we ask you to chime in on a name for Elliott's brother. Katie informed me you should never ask feedback on a child's name unless you are fully prepared to take the advice. I must tell you that we are fully prepared not to take your advice, but are merely curious to see if you will chose the name that we are leaning towards. Who knows, maybe the votes will be tabulated in Florida and we'll reconsider our position.