Friday, April 24, 2009

1 Year Adjusted Birthday!

Today is Gwyneth's 1 year adjusted birthday...she was due to be born on April 24, 2008.

So, I thought we'd take a look at how Gwyneth compares to a normal 1 year old...

The average 1 year old:

> Triples the birth weight.
Gwyneth is actually about 10 times her birth weight, from 1lb 6oz to 15lb 3 oz.

> Grows to a height of 50% over birth length.
Gwyneth has grown from 12 inches to over 26 inches.

> Has one to eight teeth
Gwyneth now has four teeth and a few more about to break through.

> Pulls to stand, crawls rapidly, seats self on floor , cruises on furniture or walks alone with an unsteady gait.
Gwyneth rolls, a lot.

> Turns through the pages of a book by flipping many at a time.
Gwyneth loves books and has been turning (and eating) pages for several months.

> Has a precise pincer grasp and feeds herself.
Gwyneth can grab her own food and will gladly put anything she grabs in her mouth, including her bottle.

> Sleeps 8 - 10 hours at night and takes one to two naps.
Gwyneth sleeps about 10 hours every night and usually takes two one-hour naps.

> Plays social games such as pat-a-cake, peek-a-boo and so-big.
Gwyneth likes to bob her head back and forth and laugh at you when you try to play games with her.

> Bangs two blocks together.
Gwyneth bangs her head on a lot of things.

> Has vocabulary of one to three words in addition to "mama" and "dada."
Gwyneth likes to growl and babble, but does not know yet what she's saying.

> Drinks from a cup - not bottles.
Gwyneth only drinks from bottles.

> Waves "bye-bye."
Gwyneth does not wave.

> Will begin to cooperate a little in getting dressed by holding still.
Gwyneth wiggles...all the time.

No matter how small or "under-developed" her doctors might think she is, we love Gwyneth and wouldn't change a thing about her. She has shown no signs that she will have any mental or physical disabilities later in life, and she's slowly catching up with her growth and development. Honestly, we couldn't be happier that she's simply alive.

Nate

151 comments:

Ginger said...

She is so beautiful!

Momof2bz said...

I love the progress report. Someday when she is older and is just like every other normal kid, this day will seem like such a faraway memory. She is so beautiful and I love that we can see her teeth in the picture. Enjoy every moment; they go so quickly! (My baby is now 7!)

JUST A MOM said...

And when she is 15 she will still tell you she hates you for not letting her go to teh mall with friends..... that she is in love with the boy of her dreams and will marry him one day,,, then at 25 she will learn that she has always loved you more then life and thank you for being her parents. She is doing great and is beautful!

Anonymous said...

Well said! What a wonderful post. Happy Adjusted Birthday sweet baby girl!!!

Karen said...

We're all happy too! You are wonderful parents.

Emily said...

It sounds to me like she is AWESOME!!!Happy adjusted birthday, Gwyneth Rose!!!! You've really been a joy to watch!
Emily in Mississippi

Hanlie said...

Hi,
I am from South Africa and I've been following your blog for a while now. I could not help but smile about your blog. Our society wants to put us into boxes ... wants to make us average. My children (12 & almost 9) are not average. Your Gwyneth is not average. Every child (born at 40 weeks or not) is special ... unique ... created by our Heavenly Father. Enjoy every minute with her (you are already doing it) she is unique and lovely.

Deb said...

She is simply PERFECT!

Justine said...

:) Beautiful! It seems to me she's doing just fine :) Must be because she has such wonderful parents! :)

Mrs. Wilson said...

Amen to that last statement!!!!

Mrs. Dan said...

Looks like she's doing GREAT!

And FTR, she's doing some things that my daughter (27 months, born term) still doesn't do. I say PHOOEY on the docs!

Kim M said...

I love the update! She has come soooo far - I think it is great that you encourage her to go as far as she can without putting the expectations on her. She is God's little creation and she is making amazing progress! I love the picture - what a mixture of both you and Tricia!!!!
Happy 1 year adjusted birthday Gweneth!!!

Laurie in Ca. said...

Oh Nate,

Gwyneths growth statistics are fantastic. I love how she is over 10 times her birth weight:) She will be talking your ear off and running away from you soon enough. She is perfect and I am so proud of her and you guys too. Have a wonderful weekend back at home sweet home.

Love and Hugs, Laurie

Beebe said...

beautiful smile

Susan said...

What a beautiful picture! Her smile looks just like Tricia!

Christy said...

I absolutely can not imagine that Gwyneth could be any more perfect than she is. Is she ... whatever? She is where God wants her to be and He is taking care of everything. There is no doubt in my mind that she will turn out just fine. I personally can't wait till her first blog post. I'm sure she will have many things to say and probably soon. I just love this post and even though you don't need to hear this (cause you know), God did an awesome job of picking Gwyneth's parents!!! Thanks for letting us be part of your very EXTENDED family. Happy Adjusted Birthday Gwyneth. Your a blessing to us all.

Anonymous said...

Everyone said that my preemie twins would be "all caught up" by the age of 3, so when they weren't doing what other 3 year olds were, I began to panic. Guess what? They are now happy, healthy, "normal" ten year olds!! Children all do things in their own way and at their own pace. The fact that you seem to know that already is great...it will save you a lot of heartache. Gwyneth is a lucky girl!!

Anonymous said...

Alive, happy and wonderful!! My daughter's due date was today also. She was born at 26 weeks (1 1/2lbs) and is now 3 years old. We still marvel that she's alive and so happy. (BTW, she's fine now--for now the doctors aren't worried!)

-Jenny

InDeeds said...

growing up beautifully!

Ellen said...

You are a wise parent to not take what the "experts" say too seriously. Premature or not, every child is different... enjoy your beautiful girls and have a safe trip home!

SaraG said...

Gwyneth is so beautiful. Look at how thick her hair is getting!!
You all are doing such a wonderful job with her and she's a happy happy baby girl!!
Have a great weekend.

lisalynnb said...

What a BLESSING she is and to get to have her as a "baby" for that much longer and assume that her future won't hold her back. How wonderful. I can't believe the milestones she's made.

angie said...

Plus....she is one of the most beautiful little girls that I've ever seen. She is doing FANTASTIC!!! I have a little boy that will be 1 next Tuesday....the two of them could get together and have a great time....they are doing about the same things:). What a treasure she is:). Congratulations Gwyneth for meeting the big milestone of turning one..."officially":).

Joshs_Rebekah said...

God is good!

Staci said...

She has quite literally grown by leaps and bounds in all ways. Even as observers we can see how far she has come from that tiny baby she started out as. She's pretty amazing and I think she is doing fabulously.

Unknown said...

Happy First Adjusted Birthday, Gwyneth! What a miracle you are.

Anonymous said...

How totally awesome. Thank God you did not listen to the experts to begin with, for we would never have even met your wonderful gwyenth. So we all know how much the experts know.

Carol said...

Awww, great stats. I love the way you posted them.

-stephanie- said...

She looks perfect in every way.

Amen to your last paragraph.

She's such a beauty.

Jodi said...

Sounds like she is doing awesome, Praise God!!

We too are just grateful that Emma is alive. She is slowly catching up as well and shows no signs of concern for delays.

Happy Adjusted Birthday, Sweet One!

Hope Tricia is feeling better!

Jodi

Amy E. said...

What a progress report!! As a teacher..she soooo gets an "A"!!!
She is just precious and gets cuter all the time!!!

turtlemama said...

So beautifully said. She's perfect.

Carol said...

There is nothing that Gwyneth should be other than what she is and wow, is she a remarkable, darling, wonderful honey! Its no wonder you guys love parenthood. Happy adjusted bday to her!

Unknown said...

Happy bday to Gwyneth!
Loved the last sentence of your post. Amen. She's an awesome miracle. I'm so glad God blessed you both with the joy of parenthood. =)

Jennifer Burgett said...

Precious!

Liz {Learning To Juggle} said...

She sounds perfect to me. She actually isn't that far off in most cases from my full term 1 year old - and there are no concerns about him. She has come so far already, she is a tough little chicca!!

Anonymous said...

She's such a precious miracle. Give her an adjusted-birthday-hug from me!

Jen said...

AMEN! She is a true miracle.

Wherever HE Leads We'll Go said...

She is adorable! And she is EXACTLY the way that God intended her to be. : )

Anonymous said...

Forget the stupid timetables! She's a miracle right from the start and only goes by God's timetable!

Devon said...

beautiful post....

if i've learned anything its that preemies will do things on THEIR timetable...nobody else's!

and as a mom of 2 micro-preemies who passed away a few days after birth, i especially appreciate your last words...

so glad gwynneth is doing so well! its truly a miracle!

Nora said...

I think she has come UNBELIEVABLY far! She's a complete miracle and will catch up on her development before you're ready, I'm sure :)). She's just a precious doll baby! Happy adjusted birthday!!!

Clair said...

Wow, a one year old should stay still a little while dressing. I must tell my one year old that, she doesn't stay still- ever. And her words are pretty unclear.

Seems Gwyneth is ahead on some things and not too far behind on others- just like any 1 year old! (none of my three have done the same things at the same time and they still don't). Her eyesight will have slowed her down...not for much longer though lol.

Enjoy every step because each stage is brilliant!!! And no matter how hard you try you can never remember everything and she will astound you everyday. You are a lucky man (and she's a very lucky little girl)

mom nana nelson said...

SO HAPPY FOR YOU LAWRENSON THREE!!
LOVE THE WAY YOU WROTE THIS POST.
ENJOY THE WKEND.


PATRICIA

Mel said...

Happy Adjusted Birthday it is amazing to have read her progress and watched her grow in pictures!!!

mom nana nelson said...

LOOK AT HER SMILE, HER HAIR, HER PRETTY FACE,GWYNETH ROSE IS BEAUTIFUL, JUST SO BEAUTIFUL.

Judy said...

Happy Adjusted Birthday Miss Gwynnie!! You are practically perfect in every way!

megasam said...

She is so awesome! I have so enjoyed watching your sweet Gwyneth grow and change. I feel honored to be a part of her life. Don't worry about the time tables. My kids didn't crawl until they were 1, they rolled everywhere. And they were pros at rolling. Gwyneth is so darn adorable and I love watching her grow and change. Thank you for allowing us all into your lives!

LifeAtTheCircus.com said...

Congrats on this momentous day and on all God has done in her precious life this far! What a sweetie she is!

Kathy said...

Dr.'s and their milestones-psh.

My baby just turned one too and she's just about in the same range as Gwyneth. And she's perfectly fine! Before you know it your little Rose will be asking for the keys to the car!

Kristin said...

I think she sounds perfect. I was wondering if you are/have seen any other changes since her eye surgery? I know you posted shortly after that there was a change in her personality just because she seemed to be taking it all in. Have you noticed any other changes? No reason for asking really, I'm just curious.

Debbie said...

Sounds like she is right on target on more things than not..she is a cutie.

Robyn said...

Happy "Adjusted" Birthday Gwynth Rose. You are truly a white rose blooming!

Katie said...

Way to go little girl! Since children grow up so fast it's kind of like God has blessed you and Tricia with more "baby" days. My little girl was born just a few days before yours and I look at her every day and wonder where my baby went. She is beautiful and I think you and Tricia are doing such a great job of parenting and you take great care of both of your girls!

I think you should have some cheese doodles to celebrate Gwyneth's adjusted birthday!!!! :)

ski said...

Gwyneth is doing SO well compaired to a "normal" 1yr old!! Especially she is so young. My son (26 weeker now 18 months) has just been cleared by the Docs and is now "caught up" with his age group. he started at 2 pounds 2 ounces and is now well over 26 ponds!! I am SO happy for you all. You have had an AMAZING ride. :)

Our life is a bowl of Barry's said...

That last sentence says it all. She is doing so great. My twins were way over one before they said much of anything.....milestones shmilestones...keep up the good work!

Whitney<3 said...

She's such a gorgeous little girl!! It's exciting to see the progress she's made!

The Beaver Bunch said...

Praise God. She is so beautiful, and thriving.

Anonymous said...

Well said! She is beautiful and perfect! Rowena

asplashofsunshine said...

Her smile is priceless!

anita said...

What a perfect post! For those of us unable to have the pleasure of meeting your sweet girl yet, it depicts to us how life with Miss Thang is! I couldn't be more proud of you guys...

Love you!

Anonymous said...

Her teeth are so cute!

Joyce K said...

Great update! Gwyneth is growing at her own pace and is doing wonderful for her age. I think we all develop at our own rate and those scales are just guidelines! She is a doll!!

Shellie Salza said...

Praise God and AMEN to that! She leads a precious life and is perfect because she is exactly as God intended her to be!

Megan R. said...

What a great comparison list! Gwyneth has made some big strides this last year! Happy (adjusted) Birthday!!

And can I just say wow... I didn't realize by the time they were a year, they are supposed to TRIPLE their weight. So, Heavy C was 11lbs 3oz... 33 1/2 pounds by a year? Sigh. I guess so. He's almost 6 months, and about 23 pounds or so.

Kira =] said...

Wow! I'm impressed with all the things she can do!!

Glad she's alive? Oh yeah, your family is definitely a miracle and proof God exists. =]

Elena said...

Happy "should be" Birthday to adorable Gwyneth! What a road she has traveled!

Tammy C said...

I think she is progressing wonderful.What an amazing girl she is and of course she has parents who love her.

Crysi said...

My daughter was only 18lbs at a year and perfectly healthy. She would only wave on occasion and couldn't clap. Every kid is different. Now she's 2 and won't stop talking, clapping (she loves "If You're Happy and You Know It") and being a crazy 2 year old. She's still small too.

shoutingforha said...

It is amazing to hear how Gwyneth has grown by leaps and bounds since her birth. She is just perfect!

Happy Adjusted Birthday!

KAT said...

Amen to that! People shouldn't be so concerned about whether or not their child is hitting the right milestone at the right time. Instead they should be proud of their child for who they are, and what they CAN do. Everyone equals out in the end. Who cares if someone else's child can sit up before your own?

Chantal said...

Happy Adjusted Birthday, sweet Gwyneth Rose!

You are a blessing to behold, and will continue to amaze everyone!

momeeof3 said...

She is so cute....

Kate said...

Love that picture! She's doing great!

Kristin said...

Happy Adjusted Birthday! She is right where God wants her to be...what more could you ask?

Tricia said...

I love to see your excitement as parents. There is a little boy in our church who was born at 1 lb and by age 2 he was all caught up. He is 5 now and you would never know he was a premie. God bless and she is beautiful!!!

Tricia :)

pam said...

AMEN!!!!! Happy Dance!

The Rosetto's said...

Well I am no doctor but I think her progress is remarkable. Sometimes docs are great and sometimes they are silly!

And really her being here doing "small" things sure beats the alternative!

Anonymous said...

It is my son's 4th birthday today. Happy Birthday Gwen.

Elizabeth said...

I can think of no better example than Gwyneth that we are are all "fearfully and wonderfully made" by our Creator.

I was recently writing up an assessment on a client I tested who happened to have been born very prematurely (many years ago)and did a little research to fill in some gaps. There's increasing evidence that developmental milestones are of very little meaning even in the adjusted age of micro-preemies. We just haven't had the good fortune to be able to observe the development of very many born as early as your White Rose was to see the normal trajectory and that whether they're on target even with their adjusted age, it seems to have little to do with their ultimate achievement and abilities. Sounds exactly like what you're observing.

Gwyneth is beautiful, wonderful, adorable, and absolutely PERFECT. I think it is impossible to see a picture of her and not immediately break into smile.

Becky in VA said...

She is truly amazing - in all ways.

Love to all.

Chris and Emily said...

I loved this post. Great simple way to update us on her progress. She's doing great!! I laughed the whole time bc I felt like I could have substituted my son's name into almost every sentence and it would have been true of him also...

So glad you enjoy every minute with her.

Dee Dee said...

Yay for loving the child God blesses you with! She's wonderful!

Pamela @ Frugal Vet Tech said...

Happy adjusted birthday, Gwyneth! Beautiful picture.

Cindy in Oklahoma said...

Wonderful news! Take it from this early childhood specialist that is a devoted reader and fan of your blog and family, that she is doing well and is ‘wonderfully made’. Be assured she will keep making progress(because of her great parents & determination) and soon when she is ready there will be so many steps forward in her development that you won’t be able to keep count. I have witnessed this over and over and it is amazing how fast it happens. I agree, Gwyneth, like all children is perfect just the way she is. She is a warrior that has defied all the odds. What a blessing and joy to see God's hand on her...

Ellen said...

You summed it up perfectly....
Honestly, we couldn't be happier that she's simply alive.

Anonymous said...

I couldn't agree more as the mother of a 25 weeker!

Holly Aytes said...

I didn't know her due date was today! Today is my baby's 9th birthday :) So I love April 24th! I think Gwyneth is doing fabulous. Some babies are a little slower at first but then make up for it later. Mine were all "slower" according to statistics but we loved them anyway :)

Amy said...

She's absolutely adorable and perfect and just how God made her!

Kristan said...

hopefully your last paragraph will shut up some of the constant critics on your blog - enjoy the day with your beauties and praise God for both of their lives! :)

Laura said...

That is so adorable!! What a miracle she is!!

Justine, Romy's Mama said...

Love the post, sounds like she's chuggin' along beautifully!

Maridon said...

love this little post...
and for the record, neither of my full term daughter's were drinking from regular cups at one year! please! ;o) and who wants that messy clean-up any way! bottles rule ;o)

Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba) said...

I think she's awesome. :) Such a little miracle.

Rose said...

She is perfect!

Youth Leaders said...

Happy Birthday and congrats for making SO many of your "normal" baby milestones.

erika said...

Happy adjusted birthday sweet Gwyneth!!! It sounds like she is doing wonderful and progressing on her own curve! Yay for Gwyneth! She has plenty of time to "catch up"; I wouldn't worry at all. She is a miracle baby and loved so much by so many. What a blessing you have!

Kalena said...

AMEN!

Anonymous said...

Are you going to post her one year birthday video that you have been promising us for months?

Caroline said...

Wow - that is impressive! Sounds like she's right where she needs to be for Gwyneth! Keep growing little one! Happy Adjusted Birthday!

LA said...

We love Gwyneth just as she is!

MamaMia said...

The doctors always have their "this is what the kid should be..." speech. The kid is too small, too big, not talking enough, too much milk, not enough milk, not enough food, too much food...The list can go on and on. Maybe they charge extra for it! :) What is important is that you have a healthy daughter that is doing exactly what she is supposed to be doing. Her only ruler is her cute little self!! Boy has she grown!!

Does this mean she gets two parties?? She's entitled right?!?!

Lauren said...

The fact that we as parents work ourselves up over the precise timing of developmental milestones cracks me up sometimes. The difference in months can seem like such a big deal when they're little-- what they "should be doing when they're 12 months versus 16 months, etc.

Whenever I start to worry about it, I remind myself that I've never heard anyone say "I know he's 34... but he only functions like a 33 1/2 year old". :)

The Pelhams said...

Well said! Isn't that the truth!! I still remember all the pug updates and love seeing how far she has come!

TheRagan3 said...

It will all even out as she gets bigger. She sounds like my son was at 1 yr old. He passed the 24 month test at 23 months and at 3 he is right there -- if not smarter (of course I'm biased!) And besides- what do the Doctors REALLY know about all that? They just go by statistics and preemies often blow the stats out of the water!
God knows exactly where she needs to be and as every one can see she is just perfect! Blessings to you and your family!
Erinn

Ashley said...

Alive and Beautiful, Happy Adjusted Birthday Miracle Baby!

Emily said...

She's gorgeous and I'm sure as sweet as can be. Phooey on comparisons!

Jane said...

it apparent on the blog that you feel this way...in real life...it's MORE than apparent. i'm with you, she is alive and that's all that matters.
fyi...world changers typically don't fit "the mold" of what others think they should be doing.

Violet said...

she is doing wonderful!

Lesley said...

She is a gift from God and I know that you know you are blessed. We have been blessed to share your journey!
Blessings,
Lesley

Julie Nickerson said...

Happy Adjusted Birthday!!!

She is more than perfect! :)

Kim said...

AGREED!! She is wonderfully made!

Erin said...

She's come a long way and I hate those guidelines... many 40-weekers can't do all that! Oh well... she's adorable. You all are blessed!

Cynthia said...

I have not commented here in a LONG time but I read all your posts. I just wanted to wish the princess a happy 1-year adjusted! I am simply amazed by her development and love to see her grow and change in your photos. Such a beautiful little girl! Your whole family is an inspiration!

Twinkletoes said...

Happy adjusted birthday! So glad you still do not take the little milestones forgranted! She is absolutely a beautiful little girl who is achieving by leaps and bounds!
Congrats, too, on the new baby and the monstrous number of hits!

Anonymous said...

I have loved watching Gwyneth grow this year. She is amazing! Don't worry about that list of an "average" one year old. Children, even within a family, do things at different times. I have 3 blessings, and its fun watching them development in their own ways and own times. They walk at different ages, learn to pedal a bike at different ages, and so on. Thank you for sharing beautiful Gwyneth with us. Your family is in my prayers!

Mommy of 3
Maryland

Lexie Loo, Lily, Liam & Dylan Too said...

She's a true miracle! And honestly, it sounds like she's doing great!

Megan and Company said...

If someone could let her 19 month old cousin that she should hold still and cooperate when getting dressed.. that would be fantastic!

The Liberto Family said...

You are blessed to have a beautiful daughter! Enjoy everyday with her.

Melinda said...

Aw, I think she's doing awesome! How amazing that your sister's baby was born so close to Gwyneth's due date ... that is very special.

I think I'm caught up on your blog now ... read through about 5 month's of posts from 2008 tonight to get caught up, lol ... what can I say? I'm one of those crazy blog readers. BTW, did you ever figure out if anyone was right about the date you'd hit 10,000,000 posts? And I see the stat counter still works ... have you passed 999 posts yet? Sorry for all the questions, but those posts are still fresh in my mind. :)

~Melinda

Missy said...

Love the way you put together this post. Kudos for providing the answers to the "ever burning questions" on Gwyn's development. Great attitude and great progress!

Anonymous said...

I read every day but rarely comment. However, I wanted to say as a parent of totally average children, I couldn't agree more with your last sentiment. I'm simply thrilled they are alive.

Kathryn said...

A smile! Oh, what a gift. I have been missing her smile like crazy. Thank you so very much for brightening my day. God's Peace!

Anonymous said...

Thank you for this update. I have often wondered how your white rose is progressing. She is a miracle. I am glad you are enjoying every moment.

How are her eyes?

AND...Is it time for a pug picture? Please?!?!?

Christy said...

It makes me laugh that the doctors have so many "normals." In several things on your list, my kids (all four of whom were full term) would have been considered delayed. Praising God that she is adjusting and growing so well. She is so beautiful!

Beverly said...

She's beautiful...just the way she is!

By the grace of God ... said...

I've been praying for guys over the last year and have been blessed to see all the the Lord has done. I will ask for a prayer request fo myself -- I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer on 13 April 09 -- with a fast growing cancer. I'm 43 with 3 wonderful children, one to be married this ssummer. I started chemo yesterday. Will you please pray for me? Thanks so much. Prayer works.

Rachel said...

What an amazing little girl! She seems like a pretty normal girl to me, no matter what the doctors say :) It's so hard to believe that its been over a year since she was born.

My Diabetic Sweet Life said...

Happy adjusted birthday Gwyneth!

Fantastic post by the way xxx

Danine said...

so truly said...God bless that Gwyneth is alive!

MagzD said...

Happy adjusted birthday :)

You are so sweet Gwyneth

Mom to preemie twins said...

I have learned over the past almost 6 years dealing with my preemies (29 week twins) that they haven't read the book on developmental milestones. They haven't heard what they are suppose to be doing on X point in the first 3 years of their development.
My son didn't talk much at all until he was almost 5. Now a year later you can't him to be quiet. He is trying to make up for the time of not talking.
My daughter is on the small side and people still ask me when she is going to catch up. Don't think so at this point.

You know what?? It really doesn't matter. My kids are the way they are because that is how God planned for them to be be since the beginning. Gwyneth is the way she is now because that is how God has planned her life for her.
Life is perfect for her just the way she is now, becuase she is alive and thriving and growing!

Molly

SmWonder00 said...

Thanks for the update. I love hearing how she's doing and watching her grow. She sounds like she is doing wonderful! She's just so cute!

Anonymous said...

Well said. This post really touched me. You DO have a beautiful little girl!

Michelle M. said...

Happy Adjusted Birthday, Gwyneth!! You are doing perfect and are just where you should be. Don't worry what those statistics say, you are just right!! Keep up the good work, you beautiful girl.

ditarae said...

So true! She is such a blessing, and God knows every tiny detail of the miracle she is! I think her progress is remarkable, and a lot of it is due to the loving care of her mommy and daddy!

North Carolina Mom said...

Ya know, chances are SHE knows what she is saying, it's just mommy and daddy who don't! Ha! :)

fuzzandfuzzlet said...

Gweneth is developing on Gweneth`s curve and that is really all that matters.

I love the fact that you are allowing yourself to enjoy ever minute of her own, unique growth and development curve.

Emily said...

Thanks for posting this! I enjoyed reading it. :)
Such a cute picture of Gwyneth! You can see her teeth and everything!
God bless.
Love,
The Burgesses from VA Beach

KAL071203 said...

oh she looks perfect, so happy! You guys are doing a great job:)

Jen in Al said...

She is awesome!!!! So fun to hear all the things she is doing! and it doesn't matter a bit what chart they measure up with! blessings to you all, jen in al

Lynn said...

Our son was a preemie, but no were near as early a preemie as your beautiful Gwyneth. I was so caught up in always comparing Lucas to other kids his age thinking, when is he going to be like them? When is he going to catch up? then I finally let go of all that and realized how special and unique Lucas is and it didn't matter how he compared-he was beautiful and funny and had his own personality. I love reading about how much you two are enjoying your little girl. Good luck with everything!

Anonymous said...

Sounds like she is doing great! Before you know it, she will be surpassing all of those milestones! Congrat!

Anonymous said...

My micro-preemie took FOREVER to do EVERYTHING... Now (at 3), he does it all and then some.

Yaaay Gwyneth!

Theresa said...

I think she is doing wonderful!

MLW Creations said...

My first son was a couple of months early, so I know about following the things they "should" be doing. If they were all doing those things, then would they be unique? What are a bunch of #s anyways? Just love her for her and that's all she'll ever need.

Anne said...

I love this post! I love your attitude! This is exactly the right way to approach development assessments. Hooray for you and Gwyneth!

Jessica said...

My first daughter was full-term, but she had a traumatic birth, and the doctors said she may have some developmental issues. She sure proved them wrong!! She was walking by about 8 months, among other things. But still, I don't think she waved bye-bye until after her first birthday, and she STILL doesn't drink out of anything but her bottle most of the time. (She is nearly 2 now.) Sometimes the "averages" can be a helpful measure, but certainly nothing to worry about. Every baby moves at his or her own pace. As you say, it is amazing that Gwenyth is even alive, much less doing all the things that she IS doing!! PTL!

Cindy said...

I have triplets who were born at 29 weeks. The doctors assured us that they would be "caught up" by a year. At a year that was laughable--they were still much more like 9 month old babies than 12 month old babies, and there's a lot of difference there. I don't think it was until after they were 3 that we felt like they were possibly "caught up." I wish doctors talked about it more realistically....

Mrs.Haggie810 said...

Babies all develop so differently! She is such a miracle, and doing so well! My cousin's children...all normal gestation, are somewhat late bloomers, but once they got going...OMGoodness are they smart! You'll be amazing in another 6 months the things she's doing that she seemed to learn overnight! LOL! She is just beautiful, and a wonderful blessing...and I thought it was funny...my 16 month old still wiggles and tries to roll and crawl and walk away when getting dressed, or her diaper changed...she's done so ever since she was able to roll over...she just doesn't like to be still! Some babies are just more cooperative than others I suppose! ;) lol1

Jenn said...

I've been in the childcare business up until about a year ago, and have taken care of a handful of kids who were at one time micropreemies. I say were at one time because really, by the time they hit preschool there's not much left to set them apart. It's amazing to watch them grow... it seems so slow at first, and then they start hitting milestones crazy fast. Gwyneth is a beautiful, beautiful girl, and a miraculous blessing. Thank you for sharing her with us - I remember praying for her as Tricia was being put into the coma... praying that the two of you would have the joy of being her parents, together. And look at you now!