Claire

Claire's appointment in Ann Arbor yesterday went well. The doctor says Claire is doing great. As I suspected, they are thrilled with her bilirubin levels and still a bit concerned about her enzyme numbers. At this point, they're attributing her bilirubin levels to ABO Incompatibility, the same thing that Meghan had when she was born. They said that it could be something else and her bilirubin levels could go back up but that's very very very unlikely. Due to her enzymes, they're ordering another blood test in a month (and asked us to make sure it's drawn when she's healthy - no cold because it affects enzyme levels so much). Unless her numbers are up in that blood draw, she doesn't have to go back to Ann Arbor for four to six months.

This is what I was hoping for. I wanted them to say "she's fine" but didn't want the fear that comes with no more blood tests and reassurances that she truly is fine. It's hard to go from such extreme possibilities and worries to absolutely none at all. I'm very confident that all will be well at the recheck in a month. I just want to hear that it is.

Claire is 3 1/2 months old now. She weighs 10 lbs. 13 oz. and is 23 inches long/tall. She's a cooing, talking machine. She LOVES to sit up. She can't do it on her own but she certainly tries. She smiles often and Lauren appears to be her favorite source of those smiles these days. She's tracking things well from sight and sound. She's developed some separation anxiety regarding me (which hasn't been easy on or fun for Brian). She likes to play with the toys on her Exersaucer (in which her feet almost reach the bottom now). She's eating well and growing beautifully. What a ride she's had these last few months. I'm glad to be at the point where we finally just get to enjoy her and not have to worry so darn much!

Deanna