06-02-10

Well, I can say that parents to premature babies have to learn just as much if not more than the babies do. When you bottle feed the girls, you have to remember that they forget the things that come easy to us. So the breathing, sucking and swallowing is a challenge for them.

Last night was a challenge for me feeding Brooklyn. I constantly watch the monitors that measure her heartrate, O2 levels in her blood, and respirations while I feed her. When her O2 levels start to fall I know to pull back on the bottle and let her catch up on her breathing. Well, I have been made by Nurse Judy. She actually blocked the monitor so I couldn't see it. She is trying to ween me off the reliance of the monitoring. Nurse Judy was standing over me and teaching me the signs in Brooklyn's face that told me that she was getting too much or that she needed a break to catch up on breathing. I am guilty of watching the monitor like a hawk. I watch it so much that I am now fearful of going home without one. I needed that lesson so that I would become more reliant on Brooklyn telling me in her way what exactly she needs. Gradually, I will get peace of mind.

Richard on the other hand doesn't look at the screen. He is one step ahead of me. He is so good with the girls. When he talks to them you can just see their faces light up and they have the biggest grins on their face. They especially love it when he sings to them. He will have them laying on his chest and talking to them and they will start smiling. These are memories that I will never forget. It is just so precious to see his interaction with them.

Quinn has started back on bottle feeding. I doubt this will be her last stubborn stand. I believe her stint of not eating effected her weight gain. She only gained 1/2 an ounce. She weighs 4lbs 12.5 oz. I was so hoping for a nearly 5lb baby.

Brooklyn is still off her cannula. She has been battling the boogs lately. That girl is constantly snotty. She hates being suctioned but it makes her feel so much better and she breathes better. She packed on the weight in the last few days. My growing Punky Princess now weighs 3lbs 9oz. That is 1630grams and I am hoping that it will qualify her to graduate to a warmer bed and out of her Box! I shouldn't be in a rush to get her out. Because she burns so many calories trying to keep her temperature. But I just want to lean over and kiss her when I want too. I am getting so anxious.

Many folks that work in the NICU keep asking us if we there is talk as to when Quinn will go home. Last night Meredith the Respiratory Therapist and Dawn a nurse from downstairs asked us and we just respond with "no one has said anything." With them asking, it feels like that discharge date is closing in and becoming more of a reality. I need Miss Brooklyn to catch up quickly. She is doing so great and continues to do better and better each day. I can honestly say that I am a very proud momma!

I can hardly control myself sometimes when I get to thinking about having my babies home. All day today, I was singing "1630, 1630...my baby is 1630grams." Silly...I know. But I was so excited. Soon I will have those two little miracles in my arms. Richard's birthday is on June 8th and he has been telling me that he just wants babies on his birthday. I told him that I don't think I can swing that but I could possibly get him at least one baby for Father's Day. What a grand treat to get on Father's Day.

I have been looking into getting a team together for a March of Dimes walk. I have been inspired by Quinn and Brooklyn to give back to the research that made it possible for them to have the absolute best care possible. I became a friend of the March of Dimes on Facebook and I have looked at the pictures people have posted of their premature babies. It was the most inspiring thing to see. I have chills just typing about it. I cried while I was looking at the pictures and reading about the babies. Some pictures will rip your heart out and you won't be able to hold back the tears. I am able to relate to these strangers and their babies. So I plan on giving back by donating and walking in the March of Dimes. I am excited and I hope this time next year Quinn and Brooklyn will be able to walk or stroll with me.

Don't be surprised if I call and recruit you!!!! How could you say "no" to the Porky and Punky Princess!