The Big Birthday Bash

Paul reminded me today that neither of us have posted lately on EK's blog.  A lot has happened in the past few weeks.  We decided to take EK off the casein free diet a little over a week ago.  We just were not seeing the results that we had read about.  We of course offered her regular 2% "bilk" as she calls it, and she would have NOTHING to do with it.  So we must have traumatized the poor child.  She now only drinks juice and water.  She did enjoy having a few Kraft Singles and yogurt though.  :)

We had a joint 1st birthday party for Mollie and 3rd birthday party for Eva Kate this past Saturday.  It was a Minnie Mouse themed party and was a lot of fun.  Thanks to all the family and friends who came and made this day so special.  We had the party in Gardendale at my mom's house and had a cool jumpy house and baby pools set out for the kids to enjoy.  We could not have asked for better weather.  It was low 80's and great for everyone to sit out in the yard and socialize while the kiddos ran around.  The decorations came together really well from some ideas I found on pinterest and Paul's mom (KK) did an outstanding job on the girl's birthday cakes and cupcakes.

EK seemed to really enjoy her birthday party and actually interacted with her cousins and friends.  We are seeing baby steps of progress with better peer interaction and eye contact when we address her.  Her teacher at MDO said she could really see improvement in her social play compared to what it was in early summer.  She is also becoming so much more affectionate towards Paul and me.  She loves giving hugs, sometimes kisses, and holding hands.  She also seems to be warming up to Mollie slowly. Mollie is still enamored by her big sister.  I think Mollie's obsession with Eva Kate and willingness to keep engaging in Eva Kate's activities will actually be so important in Eva Kate's road to improvement.

Today we met with EK's precious speech therapist at Hand in Hand for one of her final visits with Early Intervention.  She had a good session with lots of play and a few melt downs here and there when we transitioned from one activity to another.  Overall her therapist said she feels like the tantrum/ meltdowns are becoming less intense and lasting a shorter amount of time.  I would have to agree.  I find myself ignoring her 1st tantrum when we transition but if it happens a second time or last more than a few minutes she then goes to time out.  Usually this discipline nips the negative tantrum in the bud.

I'm still praying that Eva's language will become more clear.  She jabbers so expressively and it's so frustrating for us and for her when we can't make out what she needs or wants.

That's all for now...
LC