A few sweet moments

New language

We're starting to use sign language with Ian. I have known for several years that I wanted to teach my child sign language. Of course, he will not be able to produce any signs for a few months. However, I am looking forward to the time when he can communicate in other ways besides crying. I've read some very good things about using ASL(American Sign Language), including the ability to produce spoken words sooner. Doing so can reduce the amount of stress on Ian since he will be capable of letting others know what is wrong. It is not going to be an easy task, but as long as we are consistent, things should go well. Wish us luck!

Four month pediatrician visit

Ian went to the pediatrician Tuesday. He weighed 14. 6 pounds and was 24.5 inches long. This puts him at the 45 percentile in weight and 30 percentile in length. Dr. Blevens heard a heart murmur while listening to Ian's heart. However, he said that since this is the first time we've heard it, it should be nothing to worry about. It's something we will have to look out for in the future. Besides that, everything else was healthy. He seemed happy with the progress Ian has made in growth. Ian had five vaccinations, with one taken orally. He did a great job! He's such a champ! He did have a little bit of a fever later that night, but it was nothing a little pain medicine couldn't help.

Almost there...

Trying so hard to sit up on his own

Eating veggies

First bite

Thinking about it...

"Look, Dad, they're not all that bad."

Doctor visit

We went to Scottish Rite Friday to see Dr. Granger again. He adjusted the NAM again. He also instructed us how to put tape on the skin below Ian's nose. The tape will help stretch out the skin and get it centered. By stretching it out, it will help his nose to not be so flat after surgery. So far the taping is much more difficult than I expected. It seems to not want to stay on the skin. We have an adhesive to help the tape stick to the NAM, but nothing for the skin. Hopefully it'll get easier. Ian weighed 13. 14 pounds and was 24.5 inches long. He's started growing longer, rather than wider. I think this is due to him sleeping through the night, meaning less feedings. Only 2 more appointments with Dr. Granger until surgery time. It is very hard to believe we're less than a month away.

Lunch time! Getting fed by Grandpapa

Pit stop on the way home

Surgery questions

I know several of you out there have already been through your child's lip surgery. To be honest, I'm a little worried for our little guy. I want things to be as easy for him as possible, but I know it's not going to be for the first few days. We have asked the doctors most of these, but it always helps to get feedback from people who have already been through it all. Do any of you have suggestions?

My biggest concern is eating. What methods do you recommend for those first few days for feeding? We are currently using the Haberman bottle. Our occupational therapist said he should do fine with this method, but I've seen other ways online.

How have your little ones done with sleeping? Should we expect no sleep for a while?

What ointments have you used for scarring?

Anything I'm not thinking about and should know?

Thank you in advance for your help!