12 Month Checkup

Yesterday, Daddy and I took Kalissa for her 12-month checkup with her pediatrician. Nana and PawPaw came along too. As soon as we put her down in the waiting room, she sprang into social mode. She greeted everyone in the lobby and was especially drawn to this one boy who was about 9 years old. She loves to play with older kids! Once we were called into the examination room, she continued to run around and play with all of the toys. The nurse came to get her measurements and the official results are:
weight: 22 pounds 9 ounces (74th percentile)
length: 29.5" (63rd percentile)
head circumference: 18.75" (97th percentile!!!)

Obviously my home measurements for her length were incorrect but I figured that out a few days ago. Apparently the measuring tape I was using started at 1 3/4" and I never even noticed. She's measuring a little above average on weight & length but she's perfectly healthy. When the nurse was about to leave, Kalissa reached for her and didn't want her to put her down! She remarked how sweet and loving Kali is. I'm so happy that my sweet baby has returned!

When Dr. Hardisty arrived, Kalissa also immediately went to her, wanting to see and play with her stethoscope and sit in her lap. The doctor remarked that Kali's social skills are off the charts and that it's rare for children to be so friendly at this age. That's our Kali...she is full of life and wants to interact with everyone where ever we go! It's a little scary that she doesn't have a fear of strangers though. Dr. Hardisty also said that she is developing quickly and that although she's not speaking many words yet, not to worry they are coming! She said the fact that Kali uses sounds along with her entire body to express herself is great. We told her that we're using the "Your Baby Can Read" DVDs and she was impressed with the results so far. She asked if we had started to ween her from her bottle and we let her know that she is completely weened and that Kali did it herself! I guess one day she decided she didn't want her bottle anymore and she's been using sippy cups exclusively ever since. We also talked about Kali's feeding habits and the fact that she doesn't like milk. Not only does she not like milk but she doesn't like juice either! She loves water. She suggested that we just puree her table food so she can get used to the flavors. I guess I'll try it but flavor doesn't seem to be the issue, she just doesn't want to swallow! She's getting a little better though. She'll eat a scrambled egg and mashed bananas and sometimes toast and chopped meats. When the doctor checked her teeth, she said that her molars are coming in--along with about 4 more teeth! That may have something to do it too.

We asked about Kali's feet -- when she runs, she turns them inward and sometimes trips over them. Dr. Hardisty said not to worry, it's normal and her feet will eventually correct themselves as will her bow legs straighten themselves out. She gave her an A+ checkup and said she's not worried about Kali at all...she can tell she's in great hands. : )

Then the nurse came back to administer Kali's shots. She got one in the thigh and one in each arm. Poor baby screamed bloody murder!! I felt so bad but there was nothing we could do. Her next check up is at 15 months. In the meantime, since she's developing so quickly, I'll be getting her a potty. Wish me luck!!!!