them directly in to the bloodstream; this system also plays a key role in growth, reproduction, metabolism, and immune system actions." (The Endocrine System, p. 107 He said that the endocrinologist would test for abnormal hormone secretion and rule out other risks such as a "tumor of the reproductive organs or the brain erroneously triggering the production of estrogen." (More Girls Experience Early Puberty, 2) I would have never thought of that. He also felt we should seek assistance from a counselor and go to some classes at the local health department.
             April 1 - I spoke with Tib today, a friend of mine who is a counselor with the Family Advocacy Clinic on base where we live. Tib is so great!!! She gave me the name of a book called Revising Ofelia, by Mary Piphin. She said that the book would be good for Marie and me; it would help us in understanding the separation and individualization that Marie will be faced with. She said that we separate and individualize ourselves from our parents about the age 2-5 and again at puberty. Plus at this point she is not emotionally prepared for this. Tib also gave me a few suggestions for how to deal with this.
             q Tib said that she would come to me when she is ready, give her space and don't crowd her.
             q Give her the resources she needs to gain the knowledge of what is happening to her body. Weather it is a class at the health department or a good book.
             q Since adolescents don't begin to reason and to develop emotionally until age 11 or 12, her early development may be harder than it normally would be.
             April 3 - I went to the library today and picked up the books that Tib suggested.
             q Reviving Ophelia, by Mary Pipher Ph.D.: This is a story of the trials and tribulations that teenage girls go through and the dangers they face that can jeopardize their futures.
             q Every Girl, by Helen McKinnon Doan, PhD:. and Janice M. Morse, R.N. PhD.: This b...