Thursday, March 10, 2005

Eating Out

We had an appointment at the developmental clinic at U of M yesterday for both girls. This appt was scheduled for us upon leaving the nicu, and is a matter of routine for 24-week preemies to monitor their development in the hopes of identifying any problems early and getting intervention. We spent about 3 1/2 hours there and really liked the doctor. It seemed like the general consensus was "so far, so good." There are a couple of things we will be keeping an eye on, but no significant problems with physical development thus far. We will be mainly be watching for signs of Cerebral Palsy, which can range from very mild, such as slight stiffness in the ankles, to severe. Early intervention, in the form of physical therapy, is very important either way. CP is much more common in preemies than in the general population. We will go to the clinic for a routine series of 5 visits at 4 months, 8 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months. At 24 months the girls will see a psychologist who will do the Bayley Scales of Infant Development. Of course, I mention this because I have given this test before at my job. It will be very interesting to see this from another perpective, as the "parent" rather than the "examiner." The resident doctor did a Bayley Screener yesterday, and my conclusion is that they are pretty much on target for 3 1/2 month olds. We also got new weights, lengths, and head circumferences. Both babies are at the 25th %ile on all three for their corrected age.

Ok, now for the more exciting news... After our appointment John and I fed the babies, then headed to Tuptim (our favorite Thai restaurant in AA) for dinner. We took the babies out to eat!!! It was their first time anywhere other than home or doctors appointments. More than anything, we were nervous about them throwing a fit and how we would handle it:) They did really well, and showed signs that they may just become the future restaurant connoisseurs that we hope they will be. We ran into a couple of John's co-workers who were quite pleased to get a peek at the famous babies they have heard so much about. I was really bummed that we forgot the camera so weren't able to get any pics. The pic above is from this morning, lounging in bed before their afternoon nap. This is one of my favorite times of the day...

8 comments:

Kendra Lynn said...

Wow, Billie! Their first out-to-eat experience! That's cute. :) I'm glad you and John got to go out...that's great for you, I'm sure. :)
Your girls sure are adorable..no doubt about it.
I love you.
Kendra

Anonymous said...

I knew it wouldn't be long and something like this would boost your spirits! I'm happy for you all! Being cooped up in the house all winter took it's toll, I told you, with spring around the corner you'll be able to get out a little more, watch what a little clean air and sunshine does for the girls, they will grow like little flowers and sleep like never before! Love to all, Mamma Jules

Anonymous said...

How fun to eat out for the first time as a family unit. Isn't it amazing how you look at the end of the table and see 2 carseats on top of high chairs holding your beautiful children. No more alone dinners you are now blessed with 2 gifts that will give you so much joy, tears, pride, and love.
We love you guys! Happy Birthday John! Hope to see our nieces soon!
Love, Jason, Laura, Chris, Cody, Connor, & Jenny

Anonymous said...

Hi Aunt Billie Happy Birthday Uncle John! We all love you guys! I think Holland and Eden are cute! Can't wait to see them.
Love, Cody

Anonymous said...

Aren't lazy mornings the best? Any chance you'll be out enjoying your nifty stroller(s) in this beautiful weather? This is MI it may not last:-) If you need an extra pair on hands to push you know where to find me!

Anonymous said...

Kim

Anonymous said...

Whenever I check the website, Eden and Holland's pictures always bring a smile to my face and brighten my day! They are just beautiful, happy girls! Thanks for posting updates and pictures, they really make my day!
Dawn

Anonymous said...

Billie, my name is Brooke and I just had a 1 lb 1oz little boy this past Dec. He was a 23 weeker. I just want you to know that I love what you did with your web page. It is inspiring to see how well your twins are doing. I to am from Michigan. I live in Greenville which is near Grand Rapids.