9 month check-up

Yesterday, Anna had her 9 month check-up with her new pediatrician, Dr. Gordon. All went well. She is 21 lbs (and 10 oz), and 28 3/4 inches. She went from "being off the charts" to now being in the 90% percentile in both height and weight. Doc reassured us that it is fine if she is not yet crawling and/or walking. He stated that he will not be concerned until 12- 18 months. Anna was sweet and flirted with the nurse, however, she seemed anxious of the doctor and screamed throughout his entire examination. He told me she was singing.....sure. He assured us that she was happy, healthy and growing right on target. The best news of the day was that she is up to date on her shots until her 12 month check up! Yippee...I thought shots were on the agenda, so I (and Anna) were relieved to go home, shot free!

I discussed with Dr. Gordon that I thought perhaps Anna was self-weaning. He said at this age they typically do not wean, and he offered that my milk supply may be low, and Anna doesn't want to "work" for her feedings. So, he wrote me a prescription for Reglan, which is typically a reflux med, and I am to take it for 3 weeks to increase my supply. To be honest with you, I was really hoping he would tell me I did great for 9 months, and that I can now resort to formula.
nope. He said that since it is Winter, and there are viruses to be caught, that breastfeeding is still the best option. And so, here we go again. I have to nurse her 8 times a day. I am feeling disappointed because I was finally feeling like Anna and I had a bit more "freedom" and now, here we are again, on a strict nursing schedule. As long as it is for her, I will do it. I would do anything for that little girl.

As for our family, we are entering what may be a new phase in our lives, more specifically in terms of Dan's career. To make a long and complicated story short, he and three friends (and former co-workers) are talking seriously about starting their own company. He would start off as an independent contractor working on government projects, and they would come together to form an equally-owned company. This opportunity seems to have "fallen" on their laps, and all doors seem to be open. Though it is scary, the possibilities far outweigh the potential risk. On Saturday, we (his friends, and all the wives), met together to discuss logistics, details, and aspirations. We left feeling anxious, nervous and most of all excited.

For as long as I have know Dan, his career goal has been to own his own company, be his own boss, and work with people he can respect, trust and learn from. Looks like his dreams may be unfolding within the next few years. Please pray that we would be wise, not make hasty decisions and that we think with a level head. It is easy to rush into a situation which looks perfect. Please pray that the decisions we make will line up with the Lord's will, and that Dan's employment will remain secure as we transition.

Side Note: We officially retired Anna's swing. This small step made me quite sad. She is growing so quickly, and is turning more and more into a "big girl" with each passing day. So, goodbye swing...you served us well. Now...what toys to move into the seemingly "empty" corner in the living room......