School and an ECHO

Noah started his first day of preschool today.

He goes once a week for an 1 1/2 hours. It's part of his therapy and is a class designed for 2 1/2 yr olds. I'm so excited for him to go. Right now he doesn't get any interaction with other kids his age. This will help him make friends and strengthen his social interactions. It also gives him a good opportunity to be away from Mom in a structured environment. I stayed for the class today and he had so much fun. He is one of three kids with three teachers. Just enough to make friends and still get special attention for his needs.

He also recently had his first Cardiology appointment since his Cath over the summer. It went really well.

At first it was a bit sad. See, before we even got to the hospital he realized where we were going and got upset and kept telling me no and shaking his head. But since we don't do labs there (we do them at home and send them to Denver), I promised him there would be no owies. He wasn't convinced at first (walking past the lab upset him a bit) but he listened and tried really hard to be brave.

He was so good during his ECHO. Stayed very still and quiet. That helps eases my worries. Then I know they get good pictures and a more accurate look than if he's wigging out. Then we went into the appointment and played with bouncy balls while we waited for the Doctor.

Everything was great. His ECHO looked good and even though he was sick his lungs sounded good. I even found out that even though he spent a great deal of time in the 3rd percentile for weight and height, he has now made it to the 75th percentile for height and 60% percentile for weight. Music to a mothers ears!

That said, the Dr said it was time to cut the carnation bottles (not necessarily the carnation's part but definitely the bottle part). Problem is, that's his crutch. It's become a comfort thing. I always give in because he needed the nutrition. But Doc says he won't starve now and he should come off. I have since resisted giving him one for about 5 minutes of tantrum begging before giving up. I will try... just not yet.

We had a wonderful holiday and Noah's progress and health made it even more beautiful. We have so much to be thankful for.