NAM!

Today Jake got his NAM (Nasoalveolar Molding) device. We just call it a retainer. That's basically what it is and 'retainer' is an easier concept for most people. (Family, friends, and even random people in stores want to know what it is, but don't need a 2 hour explanation with a big Latin name :) It's made of clear plastic so it's kind of hard to see. Since he doesn't have any teeth for it to clip onto, we have to put tape on each cheek that has a rubber band on the end. The rubber bands slip over the two 'fangs' on the front of the retainer to hold it in. That's Doug the dog blankie he's holding onto by the way. Doug and Jake are best buds.

Jake didn't mind when Dr Yamashiro put the tapes on but freaked out when the NAM was put in. He cried so loud we couldn't hear the doctor! We should have asked our questions first. I was so worried that Jake would just be screaming for the rest of the day. But 5 minutes later he decided it was fun to suck on and quieted down. He fussed on and off all the way home, but when it was naptime he went down with no problem. Now he's playing on the floor like usual.

Today was a lot easier than I expected. I mean, he's been a little fussier than usual, but he seems more annoyed than anything. I can handle annoyed. I was prepared for non-stop screaming. The laundry and dishes are done and I stockpiled a bunch of candy (chocolate does wonders for my nerves ;) in anticipation of a really rough time today. Of course, as I typed that last part he wigged out and wouldn't stop crying. But we went for a walk to get the mail and now everything's cool. :)