what's been going on?

I've been off the grid for a while and neglected my posting duties, so here's what's been going on the past several weeks for those of you who are interested, which I guess is you since you are reading this right now.

Zachary visited his cousins Grace and Jake a couple weeks ago in Cleveland.  He LOVED being around kids his size, well, almost his size.  It was interesting to see him interact with them.  He was fascinated by Jake, who's 3, and followed him around trying to pat him on the head.  Jake was a good sport, but could have done without the irritation.  Grace just wanted to hug and cuddle with Zachary, which was really cute. 

I was worried about him getting knocked down and around, but on the few occasions he took a tumble, he popped up smiling and laughing.  He did do a header onto the hardwood floor while running around the house, resulting in a nasty-looking knot and bruise on his forehead.  I think it hurt me more than him.  I'm looking forward to him spending more time with them and other kids his age and ability so he can start getting used to interacting and socializing with someone other than us and his doctors and nurses.

He also had an ultrasound last week to check on the artery and vein that were fixed a month or so ago.  There was still some residual blood flowing where it shouldn't, but it wasn't too much and the doctor thinks things looked pretty good.  Has to check again in about six months but it looks like we'll be able to avoid a second surgery, which is a relief. 

But for whatever reason, his heart rate has been creeping up to pre-surgery levels, about 15 to 20 beats per minute higher than it was before he started having problems.  He's not showing any signs of being sick, like increased secretions or a fever or anything like that, so we're miffed.  His pediatrician doesn't seem too concerned, but can't explain it either.  We've reached out to his cardiologist and pulmonologist to get their thoughts, so stay tuned.

Zachary is also very happy that football season has started.  He things Florida State could have a great year (national championship?) and that RGIII and the Redskins are going to be very exciting to watch, though probably won't win the NFC East or make the playoffs.  But what does he know, he's not even two years old, though he will be next month, believe it or not!