Eating. Feeding YOURSELF. It's the new thing. It's all the rage. Eden loves it. Anything that looks like it might be edible heads right to the ol' chomper.  It's been great to see her start feeding herself.

I have noticed that it's easier for her to pick up larger pieces of food than smaller pieces. For example, it's easier for her to pick up a cracker than a cheerio. No problem, right? Except she'll try to put the whole cracker in her mouth. We're working on that. See below:

Woh. Take it easy, lady. One bite at a time!

Careful...you look pretty determined. This cracker is going dowwwwwwnnn.

Ok. That's much better. Such a lady.

We'll come back later for the stuff on your face.

Another cracker? Yes ma'am. Right away.

We met with the pediatric neurologist. He showed us Eden's MRI. It was amazing to see. Her BRAIN. All the different layers and levels. From top to bottom and ear to ear. He confirmed that her brain looked normal and there were no abnormalities. Eden's brain is developing the way it should. Great news.

He agreed that her muscle strength seemed a bit weaker than normal, but didn't have a specific reason as to why that is. He encouraged us to continue with the physical therapy, water therapy and occupational therapy.

He also suggested we do further testing to try and determine the reason behind her weak muscle strength. A blood test and a urine test.

We brought Eden downstairs and had her blood drawn...which is probably one of my least favorite things to have done EVER. Especially when it takes THREE tries to get the blood drawn. She's one tough cookie, but it's still very sad.

I'm not really sure how much more testing we want to do.  There's not much we can do about the Duane Syndrome (with her eyes), but that seems to be hardly noticeable. We feel like all the therapy has proved to be helpful and she is definitely progressing. It all could be nothing...maybe she just has weak muscles and because of that, she's just a little behind. Like some kids who don't walk til they're almost two and then grow up to be JUST FINE. 

I suppose we'll see what the blood test shows. But, we love her just the way she is, no matter what. So, all this testing?? As long as she keeps getting stronger, I don't HAVE TO HAVE a label or a diagnosis. I'm all about doing what's right and having a healthy baby, but if it's not a life or death situation, does she really need to be tested?? I feel like a lot of these tests are for OUR peace of mind. And I think I'm pretty much at peace.

Water therapy was today.

I think the tears started the very nanosecond that Eden's toe touched the water.  Or, was it before that? And they kept coming throughout the whole workout. The whole 30 minute workout. 

Look at those glossy-I've just been crying my face off, EYES. She's probably thinking, "Why'd you make me do it, mom?"

Shortly after this picture was taken, she was fast asleep.

Shortly after her nap, she was laughing...and all is well.