Bennett is 5 days old today. I stayed at the hospital for the bulk of the morning/early afternoon. It was nice to snuggle with him, he is such a good cuddler. He didn't eat all that well for me today so I was feeling very discouraged. The nurse even told me that she was going to tube feed him for his 3:30 meal. I was even more discouraged. Brian went this evening and fed him and bathed him and came home with good news. He ate great, all of his bottle (which is now at the max) and the nurse that took over at 3 gave him a bottle at 3:30 and he ate almost all of it. So, I am feeling a lot better now.
The nurse earlier was very discouraging, she didn't think he'd be home by Easter (in my head I was like, yes he will be). She was very nice and sweet, but not optimistic at all. The new nurse was much more optimistic, as were most of his nurses. I think it's just a matter of time. Hopefully less time, than more.
Today I was quite stable, emotionally. I had about an hour of anxiety, but that went away. Between feedings, I went out and got Bennett some preemie onesies to wear in the hospital. Now he looks handsome and you can see his fingers! He has got the longest fingers and toes. It's too funny. I think his hands are like Brian's. Hopefully he'll be tall like daddy.
Brian and I took the girls for a nice walk around the neighborhood. It was great to get out, but somewhat bittersweet as we were missing a key member of our family.
I thought I'd share a few pics of the girls meeting Bennett for the first time, courtesy of my FIL. They are so darn cute.
I also thought this pic of the girls was too cute. They look so sweet and innocent, don't they?
I'm off to rest now. I haven't really taken a break at all today, and my body is feeling it. Goodnight all!
You poor thing...I hope Bennett can come home soon!!
Posted by: April | March 17, 2008 at 04:44 PM
You have three beautiful children, Michelle. Keep the faith... things will be normal soon. I am thinking of you.
Posted by: amy | March 17, 2008 at 12:56 PM
i had the same experiences with nurses. i found that i had two favorites who were always looking on the positive side and were very informative and supportive.
don't be discouraged. he could have just been a little tired for that one feeding! i'm hoping he will be home by easter! prayers sent!
Posted by: jenny | March 17, 2008 at 12:51 PM
Sounds like he's making great progress!! I know it's weird to be at home and do family things without him, but think of how wonderful Easter will be when he IS at home. I'll be hoping for you.
You'd think that NICU nurses would be more sympathetic to parents since they do this every day...but there's always a grumpy one or two. Thank goodness for shift changes.
The girls are super cute!
Take care!
Posted by: Hilary | March 17, 2008 at 12:47 PM
You'll have him home within the week, i am sure of it! He ate much more today it sounds like, if he keeps it up, they'll have no reason to keep him ;)
Posted by: Kristi S | March 16, 2008 at 09:55 PM
Sorry to her the little man isn't home yet. It sounds like he's eat better which is always a good sign. The girls look so cute in that last photo. I hope little Bennett is home by Easter.
Posted by: Robyn | March 16, 2008 at 09:35 PM