Alexander Scott Huslage

Overall the first year check-up went well, until the end. Our doctor was really wonderful with Alex, as were all the support staff. I never felt rushed during the appointment, and really felt like everyone was actually listening to me. The doctor answered all our questions, and really falls in line with our parenting style. I really couldn’t ask for a better experience. The only horrible part were the shots and the blood draw. Alex, unfortunately, is plagued with tiny veins like me, so they had a very difficult time trying to find one. He got stuck twice, and the entire time he was completely miserable. It was the first time that I felt like I crying along with him. In the past, I’ve generally been pretty laid back about the whole process because I understand that these things need to be done. Today, however, was a little bit of torture for both of us. He didn’t like the shots either, but at least they were quickly done.

He calmed down after we got in the car, and was actually in a very good mood from there on out. As far as his “stats” are concerned, he’s 22 pounds and about 29.5 inches which puts him in the 45th percentile. I’m not too surprised since he’s a pretty slender kid, and not incredibly tall. I hope he’s not too short though. That’s enough rambling for me. It’s been a long day.

Tomorrow is Alex’s first year appointment and the first appointment with his new doctor. I decided that I wasn’t happy with his pediatrician, and thought it was time that we switched him over to our family practice. I love our doctor, and really didn’t like anyone I met at the pediatrician’s office we were originally taking him too. The doctors and nurses were nice enough, but I didn’t really feel well taken care of there. I also hated their answering service. Anytime I called, I felt as if I was completely wasting someone’s time, and during one call I was cut off while I was attempting to explain my situation. Regardless of whether or not I need to call back later, I don’t think rudeness is called for when dealing with parents concerned about the health of their children. Yes, a parent may overreact from time to time, but that doesn’t mean the should be treated poorly. We only want what is best for our children, and no one should be punished for that. Hopefully our family doctor will be the right match and we won’t have to go looking for another one. I’ll post how it goes tomorrow.