We decided to take Jonah to physical therapy to see if some specific exercises could help strengthen his hips and legs to help him walk better. (His legs and feet have been splayed since birth.) The therapist our pediatrician recommended is nearly an hour away and has a two-month waiting list, as do most pediatric therapy practices in Miami. So I asked a small rehab place only a mile away if they work with kids. They don’t, really, but the manager said we could give it a go anyway.

If this were Benjamin, he would love it. Being the center of attention while being made to do exercises with his body is his idea of heaven. But this is Jonah. He screamed most of the very few minutes we made him participate. Just like he screams when the doctor examines him. He has personal space issues.

At this rate, though, it will take weeks to build up to the twenty-minute routine he needs to do each day. The therapist had him balancing on a cushy mat and pushing a large ball while walking. (I asked if walking in the sand would be good – yes – cool! Prescribed beach time!)

The therapist also recommended an orthopedist who can take a closer look at Jonah and maybe even fit him for special shoes. He’s barefoot 95% of the time now, and doesn’t like his shoes much, but she said we should put them on the opposite feet when he does wear them.

Seems to me like that would encourage his feet to splay even more – she admitted it wasn’t logical, but it works. I’ll take her word for it – long division is still beyond my brain capacity so I’m not going to go wrapping my head around the interacting mechanics of the lower limbs.

For the next several weeks, Jonah undergoes torture has therapy three times a week. And believe you me, it’s just as exhausting for me as it is for him.

On our way out, we stopped by the café next door so I could get a coffee.

Me:  Decaf latte, please.

Man behind the counter, looking down at the boys in the stroller:  Twins?

I nodded, too tired at this point for the same old chit-chat.

Man:  You sure you want decaf?