Small, Medium, and Large

The youngest Clines all had their doctor's check-ups last week in the midst of flood clean-up.

Parker was first. He has continued on the average path for size: 27lbs. (65th%), 32.5" for height (57th%), and 50cm head circumference (95th%). So the kid has a big head but it's an awfully cute big head! His vocabulary is pretty sophisticated, even if we're the only ones who understand him. It helps that his big sis is incredibly verbal. Because he is still a pretty picky eater the pediatrician suggested that I stick to what works and incorporate smoothies into every day since he'll slurp them down with gusto. Added protein powder and flax seed make it a nutritious and delicious afternoon snack.

Madeleine's appointment was next. She hasn't slowed down when it comes to growing. She's 40.5" tall (98th%) and 35lbs. (83rd%). They stop measuring head circumference after age 2 but I'm guessing she's got a good sized melon on her shoulders too. Her socialization skills have improved drastically and she's become much more comfortable around strangers, making it easier to go to church, the park, friends' houses, etc. She is still reluctant to sleep in her toddler bed and as I'm testing today doesn't seem ready to sleep without a diaper on. It's really hard to know when to push her and when to let her decide when she's ready for different maturing opportunities. Her independent 3-year old spirit often butts heads with my agenda but we're learning how to negotiate this new territory.

Drake's check-up was the most enlightening one of the week. Apparently I hadn't picked him up before getting him weighed at the vet. He was only 48lbs. (Maggie was always around 43lbs. and was considered trim). The vet guessed that he had been neglected for some time or had been out on his own for a while resulting in the low body weight. She advised us to feed him puppy chow and get him lots of exercise to build up muscles around his shoulders, spine, ribs, and hips. Too bad I can't just give him some of my excess fluff! Actually, I think we'll have a mutually beneficial relationship: I work off pounds running and walking him and he builds muscle. She wants to weigh him again in a month to make sure he's gaining weight. We're hoping to get him closer to 60lbs. as fall approaches. For now it's fine he's smaller; it makes it easier to control him when he sees a squirrel or cat while we're out for walks.

Madeleine's refusing to cooperate for nap today so I'm off to do some negotiating. Wish me luck.