Good morning everyone. I finally figured out how to post a photo with my iPad (see the post below this one)...however, it doesn't look good. I am convinced that this blog site does not have the capability to work with the iPad. I may be changing sites because of it.
There are a few updates this week pertaining to Isaac and his health. Things are overall very good. A few weeks ago we went to the opthamologist to have his eyes checked. Thankfully this is a woman who attends our church. However, she saw early signs of Retinopathy of prematurity. She suggested that we see a specialist. Thursday was our second time seeing the specialist who stated that his eyes are improving. We heard that 85% of infants out grow this problem. Of course we are believing for this. For more information, you can check out this website http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/rop/rop.asp#1.
Wednesday night was not a fun night. Isaac did not sleep well at all. So many people say that it is just him being a "newborn". However, not thoroughly convinced, we went to the pediatrician Thursday afternoon. I asked if Isaac could out grow his dosage of reflux medicine as he now weighs 9 lbs 7 ounces. Since the answer was yes they raised his dosage. I also have been thinking that he is getting too much iron which causes constipation and gas. When he was discharged from the NICU he was put on vitamins with iron. Then I realized that the formula that I have to supplement with has iron as well. He also gets iron from my breast milk. So the doctor said to eliminate the vitamins as the formula has vitamins in it too. So he is 3 days free of them. We haven't seen a dramatic change in his sleeping habits but am hopeful that the gas will subside once some of the iron gets eliminated from his body. The doctor also mentioned that he could be lactose intolerant and that I might want to try a more gentle formula. I am waiting to do this as I want to see if any of the other suggestions help. We felt this was a great visit as I was thinking I had tried everything...
I think we have been going to too many doctors appointments...This morning, Arianna asked "are we going to the doctor today?"
I personally am looking forward to the new year as I like fresh beginnings and believe that 2012 will be a great year for not only the Iversons but for all of our friends and family!
I pray God will bless you in 2012 and hope to see a lot of my readers in the upcoming year!
Our blessings
Hello everyone!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Tuesday, december 27
We went to the ear, nose and throat specialist today. I was so happy we were lead go go to this Otolarynologist. He hs been practicing for as long as I have been alive. My mom went with me into the city of Chicago. I have to admit I wasnt excited about going into the city. I am a small town girl through and through! It can be dangerous riding with me too as I dont know my way around....my brave mother! Any who, we made it down and back without a problem. Praise God for a GPS! Okay, now on to the results. Basically he told me that he didn't know what the cough was exactly. That is fine though as it rules out anything foreign thing in his throat or any damage from the short time that he had a breathing tube down his throat in the NICU (less than 12 hours). When they scoped his throat they saw that his esophagus was somewhat red and irritated. He seemed to think it was from reflux and or a slight case of asthma. Again, good information for me as I have thought about stopping the reflux medication because his sleeping pattern hasnt changed much since he has been on it. Both the reflux and asthma should be something he will out grow. Hwever, he did mention it could get worse too. I am to see him again in a month. However, he will conact the pediatrician to let her know his findings and to suggest a greater steroid to keep his airways open. This is a form of treatment of asthma.
David, Arianna and I were listening to worship music tonight on the iPad. Wow did it remind me of how faithful God has been to us! It is amazing how God can take care of us. Even in the little things and when we don't think things are changinga in our favor. Isaac's health is only due to His faithfulness and love for us! The doctor today was really amazed at how great he has been doing and how he looked. Isaac is now 21.5" long. That is 7 inches longer than he was when he was born.
Arianna keeps bringing me plastic food to taste. She just made some soup for Sunday(?). I told her it tasted really good to which she said "I know". At least she is confident in her cooking abilities...okay, she just came in wearing Isaac's blue sock he was wearing today...I need to go...love to all my readers!
David, Arianna and I were listening to worship music tonight on the iPad. Wow did it remind me of how faithful God has been to us! It is amazing how God can take care of us. Even in the little things and when we don't think things are changinga in our favor. Isaac's health is only due to His faithfulness and love for us! The doctor today was really amazed at how great he has been doing and how he looked. Isaac is now 21.5" long. That is 7 inches longer than he was when he was born.
Arianna keeps bringing me plastic food to taste. She just made some soup for Sunday(?). I told her it tasted really good to which she said "I know". At least she is confident in her cooking abilities...okay, she just came in wearing Isaac's blue sock he was wearing today...I need to go...love to all my readers!
Monday, December 26, 2011
Monday, December 26
Merry belated Christmas to everyone! I hope everyone had a great time and enjoyed family and or friends. We had a great time with my parents and david's family yesterday. I think Arianna had a hard time believing that all the gifts she received were for her. She opened everyone of them very slowly. The first gift she opened was something very little and she was so excited about it... It was fun.
We tried out a different jumping facility today and we were disappointed. The activities were all old and very worn. They were also older than arianna could do. So once again David and I had to go in with her.
Tomorrow we are going to the ear, nose and throat doctor. I am really believing that we are going to get some answers. I really want to make certain that we get this cough figured out and taken care of. Isaac just think the cough is just hard on him. Issac is doing VERY well otherwise. He is amazing at how he looks and how he acts. I am so proud of him!
I get to enjoy one more week at home for Christmas break. It has been a relaxing time.
We tried out a different jumping facility today and we were disappointed. The activities were all old and very worn. They were also older than arianna could do. So once again David and I had to go in with her.
Tomorrow we are going to the ear, nose and throat doctor. I am really believing that we are going to get some answers. I really want to make certain that we get this cough figured out and taken care of. Isaac just think the cough is just hard on him. Issac is doing VERY well otherwise. He is amazing at how he looks and how he acts. I am so proud of him!
I get to enjoy one more week at home for Christmas break. It has been a relaxing time.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Thursday, December 22
Is it Thursday or friday? Since I am on break I can't remember what day it is! Yesterday I thought it was saturday, today I thought it was Friday.
My parents came up today but I think I am going to send them home tomorrow. They brought up this reindeer that when you squeeze his nose he sings jingle bells and dances.....! Arianna loves it and has played it too many times. I think I will be hearing it as I sleep tonight and tomorrow and the next night... Good thing is that he can go away for the year on Sunday!
Arianna stayed in her jammies all day today. I really don't like that but she looks so cute in this set that I thought oh well, we aren't going anywhere.
It is so fun to be off and rest. Time sure went fast today though, I didn't get to some of the things I wanted to but oh well.
Tomorrow is hanging around and possibly shopping a little.
My parents came up today but I think I am going to send them home tomorrow. They brought up this reindeer that when you squeeze his nose he sings jingle bells and dances.....! Arianna loves it and has played it too many times. I think I will be hearing it as I sleep tonight and tomorrow and the next night... Good thing is that he can go away for the year on Sunday!
Arianna stayed in her jammies all day today. I really don't like that but she looks so cute in this set that I thought oh well, we aren't going anywhere.
It is so fun to be off and rest. Time sure went fast today though, I didn't get to some of the things I wanted to but oh well.
Tomorrow is hanging around and possibly shopping a little.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Wednesday, December 21
We had a family day today. We took Arianna to an indoor jump facility. this one is called Jump Zone. They had 7 huge inflatable activity centers where kids could jump. We started in the youngest area. arianna seemed to really like that one. Then she agreed to go to the one right next to it. It was larger and was for older kids. I decided to go in with her. Then she was brave enough to explore and have fun. By the time we were finished David and I felt every year of our age and were tired ourselves. Mental note....next time bring a friend along to play.
It is official, kids Arianna's age love the boxes more than the toys they get! We received a package today that had packing peanuts...it is now been converted to a bathtub for all of her dolls and stuffed animals. They dive into the peanuts as if it were a sudsy bath!
When we checked the mail today we found that David had won a prize from a sweepstakes that he entered. He won the third prize which was a Chicago Bears baseball cap and a gift card for gasoline! We were so excited!
It is official, kids Arianna's age love the boxes more than the toys they get! We received a package today that had packing peanuts...it is now been converted to a bathtub for all of her dolls and stuffed animals. They dive into the peanuts as if it were a sudsy bath!
When we checked the mail today we found that David had won a prize from a sweepstakes that he entered. He won the third prize which was a Chicago Bears baseball cap and a gift card for gasoline! We were so excited!
Monday, December 19, 2011
Monday, December 19
Nothing really new to say tonight. I am getting the house ready for my parent's visit. Cleaning and planning menus. I wrapped gifts while Arianna was napping yesterday. I thought she would be excited to see them under the tree. But she wasn't really interested. I am certain she will be on Christmas day. She is ao excited to have me home for break. She asks me if she is going to the kinneyminneys (her babysitters-MacKinneys). When I tell her she will be staying home with me and Isaac she does a little dance.
I have gotten into the pattern again where I fall asleep in the chair in his room and am not waking up to get back into bed. Last night he was just crying after I checked all the bases to make sure they weren't the culprit. So I held him in front of my face and was telling him to go to sleep. David came in to relieve me and I started to cry from both frustration and exhaustion. Arianna woke up and said to David "I got this" and proceeded to try to console me...David and I laughed so hard. I think she thinks she is at least 10. She also tells me that she has it when I am getting Isaac out of his car seat. I am thankful she isn't strong enough to pick him up. I am safe for a little while longer.
By the way, Isaac was weighed today. He is now 8 lbs 11 ounces. So proud of him! He has been free from the monitor going off for about 4 days now!! He is almost cord free! We go back to the pulmonologist at the beginning of the year. That is who can release him of his cords!
I have gotten into the pattern again where I fall asleep in the chair in his room and am not waking up to get back into bed. Last night he was just crying after I checked all the bases to make sure they weren't the culprit. So I held him in front of my face and was telling him to go to sleep. David came in to relieve me and I started to cry from both frustration and exhaustion. Arianna woke up and said to David "I got this" and proceeded to try to console me...David and I laughed so hard. I think she thinks she is at least 10. She also tells me that she has it when I am getting Isaac out of his car seat. I am thankful she isn't strong enough to pick him up. I am safe for a little while longer.
By the way, Isaac was weighed today. He is now 8 lbs 11 ounces. So proud of him! He has been free from the monitor going off for about 4 days now!! He is almost cord free! We go back to the pulmonologist at the beginning of the year. That is who can release him of his cords!
Friday, December 16, 2011
Friday, December 16
Oh glorious day! Let Christmas vacation begin! I know I haven't been at school for the entire semester but whew have I done some work! This morning arianna asked me if we could stay in our jammies tomorrow. I said o course! However, I am not an all day Jammie person so maybe mommy will have an Jammie half morning.
I have some fun things planned for Arianna over break. I might even venture out with the two of them by myself..We'll see...I will need to do it sometime.
Isaac has been alarm free for over 24 hours so hoping we will progress to none! I have also been awake enough during the night to actually get back in bed. I tell you it is so good to not count my hours of sleep that I get. I think it tricks me into thinking I have slept more than I have. I do think it is time to work on his night routine now that I know him better. If anyone has suggestions of what worked for you and tour children to get them to sleep throuh the night, please pass on the tips! I am willing to find a solution. He is doing so well in his development that I know my big boy can handle it.
The other day we went out for sinner. The waitress asked how old Isaac was. David said 5 weeks. After she left he asked me if that was correct. I am glad she didn't hear me say I had no clue. She might have thought we took him from someone. He is now 4 months old but with adjusted age starting from when he was due, he is 5 weeks and 5 days old. The long story is he was a preemie and he was born on.... Short story...5 weeks! We like to just tell strangers the short story.
I have some fun things planned for Arianna over break. I might even venture out with the two of them by myself..We'll see...I will need to do it sometime.
Isaac has been alarm free for over 24 hours so hoping we will progress to none! I have also been awake enough during the night to actually get back in bed. I tell you it is so good to not count my hours of sleep that I get. I think it tricks me into thinking I have slept more than I have. I do think it is time to work on his night routine now that I know him better. If anyone has suggestions of what worked for you and tour children to get them to sleep throuh the night, please pass on the tips! I am willing to find a solution. He is doing so well in his development that I know my big boy can handle it.
The other day we went out for sinner. The waitress asked how old Isaac was. David said 5 weeks. After she left he asked me if that was correct. I am glad she didn't hear me say I had no clue. She might have thought we took him from someone. He is now 4 months old but with adjusted age starting from when he was due, he is 5 weeks and 5 days old. The long story is he was a preemie and he was born on.... Short story...5 weeks! We like to just tell strangers the short story.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
thursday, December 15
Good early morning everyone! It is about 4:30 right now. I am writing as I feed Isaac. He has been really fussy in the mornings lately,so here I am. Wow, I already fell asleep as I write. I find myself really tired come Thursday morning.
Isaac now weighs in at 8 lbs 9 ounces. That makes me so happy that he is gaining weight like he is. The at home nurse said that she doesn\'t have to visit any longer! She will come next week and then we are done with that phase too. It is nice to feel as if we are making some progress in Isaac\'s healing process. However now we will take him to the pediatric ear nose and throat doctor to check on the cough. It is the oddest thing. As there is no pattern to its occurrence and its intensity is always different. But we have to do something about it. The cough is so alarming and loud that it startles people when he coughs. I can also tell that it bothers him and it is almost like he swallowwed something and is choking on it.
At this time my two prayer requests would be for the ENT doctor to have wisdom about the cough and for him to sleep better through the night.
Thank you so much. I am going to try to lay him down in his crib now so I can try to get a little sleep before my alarm goes off at 5:30.
Isaac now weighs in at 8 lbs 9 ounces. That makes me so happy that he is gaining weight like he is. The at home nurse said that she doesn\'t have to visit any longer! She will come next week and then we are done with that phase too. It is nice to feel as if we are making some progress in Isaac\'s healing process. However now we will take him to the pediatric ear nose and throat doctor to check on the cough. It is the oddest thing. As there is no pattern to its occurrence and its intensity is always different. But we have to do something about it. The cough is so alarming and loud that it startles people when he coughs. I can also tell that it bothers him and it is almost like he swallowwed something and is choking on it.
At this time my two prayer requests would be for the ENT doctor to have wisdom about the cough and for him to sleep better through the night.
Thank you so much. I am going to try to lay him down in his crib now so I can try to get a little sleep before my alarm goes off at 5:30.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Monday, December 12
I hope everyone is getting close to having their shopping done. Christmas is coming fast upon us! I have done a lot of my shopping online since it is easier than toting the kids (which I am shocked every time I say "the kids") to a store. The weather has been nice enough but my patience I would say would not be nice to endure the shopping this year. However I must say I am getting more comfortable being a mom to two!
Isaac is doing well. The doctor last Tuesday said that it would take about 5 days for the caffeine to be out of his system and we would have an idea of how he will do off of it. I had forgotten about the whole ordeal until yesterday when his monitor went off. David thought it was a low battery for the monitor. When I went to look the red light was on for the lungs. Which meant that it sensed a problem with his breathing. It went off about 5 times within a 3 to 5 minute time Span. I even shut it off and turned it back on thinking it was a fluke. Isaac\'s color was really good and he seemed to be breathing shallow but at a steady pace. David was holding him throughout the whole ordeal. I suggested he move him because Isaac was asleep. This seemed to do the trick. There weren\'t any alarms last night or today either so we are believing God to keep progressing him to the next healthy level.
This morning I dressed Arianna in a new shirt. While we were eating breakfast she proceeds to tell me that the new shirt "makes me feel like a new woman"! I thought she should share some of that feeling! I have been spending most of the night in the chair with him. Both of us asleep. What happens is when I wake up to nurse him I am so tired I fall asleep. I cant seemed to wake up enough to go back to ned. A few times i have been awakened by david asking me to go back to bed! I know this is only a season. I have also stopped counting how much sleep i actually am getting. It makes me much less stressed out.
I forgot to tell you about the christmas lights we went to see on Saturday night. We bought some hot chocolate at oberweiss and set off to see the lights. There is a street in south Elgin thar has about half or more of it\'s houses decorated and they even have a live santa our waving at the cars. We drove through enjoying our hot chocolate, each of us with a cup in hand (except for Isaac). We were off at another street when Arianna keeps repeating "I did not wave to Santa". She seemed kind of worried about and I think she felt as if she hurt his feelings by not waving. She eventually says " I did not wave to him because I was holding my hot chocolate". We told her Santa understands the need for hot chocolate. I find it funny that she would even think twice about Santa as we don\'t talk about him and what he represents. She must just know that he is someone who all kids want to impress! So we did drive back by Santa so she could wave at him. She started giggling and said "I did not know where he goed but I see he goed there." I still have to come up with a Christmas activity for this weekend...anyone have an idea? I was over zealous and should have kept the cookie baking for this weekend.
Isaac is doing well. The doctor last Tuesday said that it would take about 5 days for the caffeine to be out of his system and we would have an idea of how he will do off of it. I had forgotten about the whole ordeal until yesterday when his monitor went off. David thought it was a low battery for the monitor. When I went to look the red light was on for the lungs. Which meant that it sensed a problem with his breathing. It went off about 5 times within a 3 to 5 minute time Span. I even shut it off and turned it back on thinking it was a fluke. Isaac\'s color was really good and he seemed to be breathing shallow but at a steady pace. David was holding him throughout the whole ordeal. I suggested he move him because Isaac was asleep. This seemed to do the trick. There weren\'t any alarms last night or today either so we are believing God to keep progressing him to the next healthy level.
This morning I dressed Arianna in a new shirt. While we were eating breakfast she proceeds to tell me that the new shirt "makes me feel like a new woman"! I thought she should share some of that feeling! I have been spending most of the night in the chair with him. Both of us asleep. What happens is when I wake up to nurse him I am so tired I fall asleep. I cant seemed to wake up enough to go back to ned. A few times i have been awakened by david asking me to go back to bed! I know this is only a season. I have also stopped counting how much sleep i actually am getting. It makes me much less stressed out.
I forgot to tell you about the christmas lights we went to see on Saturday night. We bought some hot chocolate at oberweiss and set off to see the lights. There is a street in south Elgin thar has about half or more of it\'s houses decorated and they even have a live santa our waving at the cars. We drove through enjoying our hot chocolate, each of us with a cup in hand (except for Isaac). We were off at another street when Arianna keeps repeating "I did not wave to Santa". She seemed kind of worried about and I think she felt as if she hurt his feelings by not waving. She eventually says " I did not wave to him because I was holding my hot chocolate". We told her Santa understands the need for hot chocolate. I find it funny that she would even think twice about Santa as we don\'t talk about him and what he represents. She must just know that he is someone who all kids want to impress! So we did drive back by Santa so she could wave at him. She started giggling and said "I did not know where he goed but I see he goed there." I still have to come up with a Christmas activity for this weekend...anyone have an idea? I was over zealous and should have kept the cookie baking for this weekend.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Friday, December 8
I did it! My first full week back to work! Everyone survived to live to tell about it! I just fell asleep on the couch for an hour and a half before going to bed and I am Looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow until 6 am! Arianna woke up at the 4:30 am feeding this morning. I fell asleep during it and woke up to her playing in her room with her entire toy box emptied on the floor. I love the fact that being in the same room with her is enough for her. Talking is optional I guess.
We had a small accumulation of snow this morning. She was so excited! When we went downstairs to eat breakfast and she grabbed one of her chairs and placed it in front of our big three panel deck window. She started telling her baby doll all about the snow. She also likes to put the chair right next to jIsaac when he is in his bouncy seat. She sets "baby Julie" on the seat. I asked her why baby Julie had to sit so close to Isaac. She said "she watching him and talking to him". I thought that maybe baby Julie could possibly take over the 1 am feeding for me so I can get some sleep. Her plastic arms wouldn't be too comfortable for Isaac to lay in so I nixed that idea.
For those of you who couldn't comment before, I believe I fixed it. Please feel free to post any clean comments.
I am almost done Christmas shopping. Just a few more gifts! Hoping to finish this weekend. Then onto wrapping. I think that is something I am going to have to do when Arianna is napping. Again, just like the Christmas cookie baking...I need to have control over the mess! I don't want to make more work for myself! Okay, maybe I will let her wrap a few!
We had a small accumulation of snow this morning. She was so excited! When we went downstairs to eat breakfast and she grabbed one of her chairs and placed it in front of our big three panel deck window. She started telling her baby doll all about the snow. She also likes to put the chair right next to jIsaac when he is in his bouncy seat. She sets "baby Julie" on the seat. I asked her why baby Julie had to sit so close to Isaac. She said "she watching him and talking to him". I thought that maybe baby Julie could possibly take over the 1 am feeding for me so I can get some sleep. Her plastic arms wouldn't be too comfortable for Isaac to lay in so I nixed that idea.
For those of you who couldn't comment before, I believe I fixed it. Please feel free to post any clean comments.
I am almost done Christmas shopping. Just a few more gifts! Hoping to finish this weekend. Then onto wrapping. I think that is something I am going to have to do when Arianna is napping. Again, just like the Christmas cookie baking...I need to have control over the mess! I don't want to make more work for myself! Okay, maybe I will let her wrap a few!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Thursday, December 7
Well threes days into work...I am doing pretty well I think. I am tired though as I have had to get up earlier the past two days due to doctors appointments. Yesterday Isaac's follow up visit with the NICU and the pulmonologist. Isaac is now 8 lbs and 3 lbs! Wow is he growing. The physical therapist was astonished at how he was doing. He can hold his head in the center of his body while on his back, follow an object when it moves from one side of his head to another and has great movement in legs and arms. Today the pediatrician said he is healthy and right where he should be. The NICU originally said that we would need to visit them monthly. Ater yesterday we were told with his development we only need to come back in 3 months! He also has been taken off of caffiene! One more medication gone! So exciting.
He is still waking up in the middle of the night more than I would like and more than I think a newborn should. I have always heard that a newborn should sleep most of the time. The pediatrician today said give the reflux medicine another week. This too shall pass and in a few more months we will be progressed to another stage....
I don't remember if I blogged this but Sunday night arianna and I made sugar cookies and decorated them. It was fun. However I learned that I have to let her explore more and let her do things... I was so concerned about the uncontrolled mess that was being made and the not so perfectly shaped cookies... Candy cane shaped cookies are bound to be in two pieces! She was shocked that I let her wipe her floury hands on her shirt when she asked. I thought that is part of baking right? Then every time I turned around she had another M & M in her mouth just smiling away. All in all they tasted good and it was a great memory. This weekend the Iverson tradition will be driving around looking at Christmas lights in her pajamas and drinking hot chocolate!
He is still waking up in the middle of the night more than I would like and more than I think a newborn should. I have always heard that a newborn should sleep most of the time. The pediatrician today said give the reflux medicine another week. This too shall pass and in a few more months we will be progressed to another stage....
I don't remember if I blogged this but Sunday night arianna and I made sugar cookies and decorated them. It was fun. However I learned that I have to let her explore more and let her do things... I was so concerned about the uncontrolled mess that was being made and the not so perfectly shaped cookies... Candy cane shaped cookies are bound to be in two pieces! She was shocked that I let her wipe her floury hands on her shirt when she asked. I thought that is part of baking right? Then every time I turned around she had another M & M in her mouth just smiling away. All in all they tasted good and it was a great memory. This weekend the Iverson tradition will be driving around looking at Christmas lights in her pajamas and drinking hot chocolate!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Sunday, December 4
Today is our 7 year wedding anniversary! Tomorrow I do go back to work... I have mixed feelings about it. I am excited to have a routine again as I am a regimented person however that regiment is sometimes stressful when I cant predict Isaac's sleeping schedule. He is sleeping much Better at night but now he can cry in the morning which is when I will be getting ready. Oh well, it will work.
Isaac has a follow up apptointment with the NICU and the pulmonologist on Tuesday and his pediatrician on Wednesday. I am certain that the reflux medication is doing some good. I am looking forward to what the pediatrician says about the results. I am also hoping to take away the caffiene from his meds. I really am not a fan of medication. However, Isaac is doing really well for all that has happened in his young life. I need to keep reminding myself this is all only a season!
Today Arianna was playing with her dol and she said I am giving her medication.....she said the entire word and very clearly...we are thinking about getting her a doctor set for christmas...
Isaac has a follow up apptointment with the NICU and the pulmonologist on Tuesday and his pediatrician on Wednesday. I am certain that the reflux medication is doing some good. I am looking forward to what the pediatrician says about the results. I am also hoping to take away the caffiene from his meds. I really am not a fan of medication. However, Isaac is doing really well for all that has happened in his young life. I need to keep reminding myself this is all only a season!
Today Arianna was playing with her dol and she said I am giving her medication.....she said the entire word and very clearly...we are thinking about getting her a doctor set for christmas...
Friday, December 2, 2011
Friday, December 2
Happy weekend to everyone. Isaac has been doing somewhat better over the past two days. Wednesday night was fabulous! I actually received about 6 or more hours of sleep and it was in intervals longer than 15 or fewer minutes! I felt like I could conquer the world that day! I actually was able to take a morning shower and didn't have to wait for David to be here! Last night wasn't as good but better than it had been. Believing for an even better night tonight!
Sunday David and I celebrate our 7 year wedding anniversary! Wow those years have gone by so fast! Hard to believe it has been that long since I married my best friend!I think we have too much fun together. Tonight he and I were trying to sing one of Arianna's bible songs as they sing it on her show in different intervals. We were lauhing so hard and she didn't understand. She kept saying...don't laugh so hard. I think she can't figure us out! I would not to be married to anyone else! He truly is a blessing to me in so many ways.
We got a red cat tonight named catty/kitty/cat. We found her at the mall....okay it is Arianna's imaginary cat. We didnt know she had one until she informed me that I had stepped in it! I had to carry catty throughout the mall and had to make certain I put her on Arianna's lap when we got back in the car.....maybe catty will be gone tomorrow? She and I rode a train around the mall. She was so adorable. I kept asking her if she wanted to sit on my lap and she kept telling me "no I okay." she is definitely daddy's girl. David and Isaac sat the train ride out. arianna kept saying "I want to go back to daddy." I am so happy they have such a good relationship. She has so much fun with him!
Sunday David and I celebrate our 7 year wedding anniversary! Wow those years have gone by so fast! Hard to believe it has been that long since I married my best friend!I think we have too much fun together. Tonight he and I were trying to sing one of Arianna's bible songs as they sing it on her show in different intervals. We were lauhing so hard and she didn't understand. She kept saying...don't laugh so hard. I think she can't figure us out! I would not to be married to anyone else! He truly is a blessing to me in so many ways.
We got a red cat tonight named catty/kitty/cat. We found her at the mall....okay it is Arianna's imaginary cat. We didnt know she had one until she informed me that I had stepped in it! I had to carry catty throughout the mall and had to make certain I put her on Arianna's lap when we got back in the car.....maybe catty will be gone tomorrow? She and I rode a train around the mall. She was so adorable. I kept asking her if she wanted to sit on my lap and she kept telling me "no I okay." she is definitely daddy's girl. David and Isaac sat the train ride out. arianna kept saying "I want to go back to daddy." I am so happy they have such a good relationship. She has so much fun with him!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Wednesday November 30
It has been one full month that Isaac has been home. It has been quite an adjustment. Sometimes fun and other times not so fun.
I called the pediatrician yesterday because I believe the sleepless nights have gotten worse. Although I know newborns don't typically sleep through the night I used my instinct and called. After telling the doctor about his symptoms she mentioned she thought it was reflux and prescribed a medication for reflux. Not convinced I reviewed the symptoms online. What I read he has about 7 of the 10 symptoms. We started the meds last night and today was worse than yesterday. There are times that he doesn't want to eat and cries in pain. I reflect back and he showed early signs of reflux and I believe it worsened since being home. The NICU had tested for it about a week before he was discharged and it showed that he didn't have it. It is difficult to see him cry that hard and not be able to soothe him. I called the doctor again today to make sure that this med will mix well with the others since I felt today has been the worst yet. She said it could take up to one week to see results. The crying affects his eating and his sleeping, the two major things that babies need! We are praying and believing for there to be more immediate results! When he starts crying I have been praying through it sometimes with tears and other times with anger. I am so mad that he has to go through this! I keep telling him that his dad and I have not given up on getting him to feel better! We won't stop until we see results!
We would appreciate prayers for his healing! Thank you so much!
I called the pediatrician yesterday because I believe the sleepless nights have gotten worse. Although I know newborns don't typically sleep through the night I used my instinct and called. After telling the doctor about his symptoms she mentioned she thought it was reflux and prescribed a medication for reflux. Not convinced I reviewed the symptoms online. What I read he has about 7 of the 10 symptoms. We started the meds last night and today was worse than yesterday. There are times that he doesn't want to eat and cries in pain. I reflect back and he showed early signs of reflux and I believe it worsened since being home. The NICU had tested for it about a week before he was discharged and it showed that he didn't have it. It is difficult to see him cry that hard and not be able to soothe him. I called the doctor again today to make sure that this med will mix well with the others since I felt today has been the worst yet. She said it could take up to one week to see results. The crying affects his eating and his sleeping, the two major things that babies need! We are praying and believing for there to be more immediate results! When he starts crying I have been praying through it sometimes with tears and other times with anger. I am so mad that he has to go through this! I keep telling him that his dad and I have not given up on getting him to feel better! We won't stop until we see results!
We would appreciate prayers for his healing! Thank you so much!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Monday, November 28
One more week left on my maternity leave. I can't believe that it has gone by so fast.
I had two ladies who came by today from the Early Intervention Program from the state of Illinois. They evaluated Isaac today and asked a lot of questions about his health and history. They determined that he doesn't qualify for intervention at this time because he is doing so well. I am thoroughly proud of my son. I think he is doing exceptionally well in the area of breathing and eatting and gaining weight. He is holding his head up very well these days and turns from side to side sometimes when he wants to follow you around the room. I can have them come back and reivaluate him in three months to see if he can qualify at that time.
On the sleeping front Isaac is still not sleeping well. It was bad and now it is even worse. For the past two nights he has slept only 3 to 4 hours which means so am I. It has been difficult on the entire family. I have tried so many things and some work one night but they don't the next and so on. I was getting so tired physically and mentally. The ladies today gave me some new ideas that I hadn't tried yet. They suggested that I keep him swaddled still and make sure he is warm. I have noticed before that when I pick him up at night his hands are cool. so we brought up the heater from the basement and put it a few feet from his crib. we will try that tonight and hope it will work. I thought he was upset when he was swaddled as he is starting to stretch out of the swaddle. I have a good swaddle blanket that I used with Arianna that has velcro that will keep him strapped in.... smile...They believe that helping him regulate his temperature will help him not wake up in the middle of the night.
He is still off of oxygen. He has been saturating well since Friday. I removed the circles from his cheeks yesterday. Wow, is his face cute! I can't stop kissing those cheeks!
Arianna just asked David "do you know I love you?" oh my, could she be any cuter...
I had two ladies who came by today from the Early Intervention Program from the state of Illinois. They evaluated Isaac today and asked a lot of questions about his health and history. They determined that he doesn't qualify for intervention at this time because he is doing so well. I am thoroughly proud of my son. I think he is doing exceptionally well in the area of breathing and eatting and gaining weight. He is holding his head up very well these days and turns from side to side sometimes when he wants to follow you around the room. I can have them come back and reivaluate him in three months to see if he can qualify at that time.
On the sleeping front Isaac is still not sleeping well. It was bad and now it is even worse. For the past two nights he has slept only 3 to 4 hours which means so am I. It has been difficult on the entire family. I have tried so many things and some work one night but they don't the next and so on. I was getting so tired physically and mentally. The ladies today gave me some new ideas that I hadn't tried yet. They suggested that I keep him swaddled still and make sure he is warm. I have noticed before that when I pick him up at night his hands are cool. so we brought up the heater from the basement and put it a few feet from his crib. we will try that tonight and hope it will work. I thought he was upset when he was swaddled as he is starting to stretch out of the swaddle. I have a good swaddle blanket that I used with Arianna that has velcro that will keep him strapped in.... smile...They believe that helping him regulate his temperature will help him not wake up in the middle of the night.
He is still off of oxygen. He has been saturating well since Friday. I removed the circles from his cheeks yesterday. Wow, is his face cute! I can't stop kissing those cheeks!
Arianna just asked David "do you know I love you?" oh my, could she be any cuter...
Friday, November 25, 2011
Friday, November 25
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! I know we did. We ate too much, laughed a lot and shopped a little....
Isaac's nurse came by again today. He now weighs 7 lbs & 8 ounces. He has also been saturating really well. So David and I discussed turning his oxygen more. This turned it down to only 1/64 of a liter. So as I was talking to the nurse today I asked what she thought of taking him off to see how he does... Well we did. He has been saturating as if he still had the oxygen. She said to watch when he eats too and check to see if he saturated well while eating. Again, he saturated just as if he is still on oxygen! One time he started to decrease and decrease in saturation while just laying there. His color was still really good. Then I realized the monitor was off of him...he also went to his first black friday shopping experience. He did very well! Slept through most of it. But please know we only went for an hour and it was 1 in the afternoon.
Please still pray for our sleep. He is getting up a lot at night and can keep me awake for a three hour period sometimes in one night. Also, we are believing for his cough to disappear as well. It is due to extra drainage from the nasal canula which is from the oxygen. Drainage gets caught in his throat and makes him have a very loud and icky cough. Sometimes it bothers him more than others. He has had it for a while. Even when he was in the hospital.
Have a great night!
Isaac's nurse came by again today. He now weighs 7 lbs & 8 ounces. He has also been saturating really well. So David and I discussed turning his oxygen more. This turned it down to only 1/64 of a liter. So as I was talking to the nurse today I asked what she thought of taking him off to see how he does... Well we did. He has been saturating as if he still had the oxygen. She said to watch when he eats too and check to see if he saturated well while eating. Again, he saturated just as if he is still on oxygen! One time he started to decrease and decrease in saturation while just laying there. His color was still really good. Then I realized the monitor was off of him...he also went to his first black friday shopping experience. He did very well! Slept through most of it. But please know we only went for an hour and it was 1 in the afternoon.
Please still pray for our sleep. He is getting up a lot at night and can keep me awake for a three hour period sometimes in one night. Also, we are believing for his cough to disappear as well. It is due to extra drainage from the nasal canula which is from the oxygen. Drainage gets caught in his throat and makes him have a very loud and icky cough. Sometimes it bothers him more than others. He has had it for a while. Even when he was in the hospital.
Have a great night!
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Tuesday November 22
The nurse came by again this morning. Isaac is now 7.5 lbs. He gained 4.5 ounces in 3 days. WOW! He has had a lot of nasal drainage for the past two days. I purchased some saline drops for his nose. The nurse even tried but that stuff is sure stubborn!
Arianna has just woken up from her nap and she and grandma are making pumpkin pie! She had the largest smile when grandma asked her. She has been practicing her baking with the cupcake app on the iPad. She is dazzling grandma with her skills!
I am so happy to have my parents here again. I can now get a little bit more sleep with grandmas help.
If you dont hear from me again before thursday have a great Thanksgiving. We are thankful for so much this year! Our family has grown by one and so much more!
I hear Ari in the kitchen encouraging grandma. Grandma is cleaning the oven as the pies have spilled over....have to go help!
Arianna has just woken up from her nap and she and grandma are making pumpkin pie! She had the largest smile when grandma asked her. She has been practicing her baking with the cupcake app on the iPad. She is dazzling grandma with her skills!
I am so happy to have my parents here again. I can now get a little bit more sleep with grandmas help.
If you dont hear from me again before thursday have a great Thanksgiving. We are thankful for so much this year! Our family has grown by one and so much more!
I hear Ari in the kitchen encouraging grandma. Grandma is cleaning the oven as the pies have spilled over....have to go help!
Tuesday November 22
The nurse came by again this morning. Isaac is now 7.5 lbs. He gained 4.5 ounces in 3 days. WOW! He has had a lot of nasal drainage for the past two days. I purchased some saline drops for his nose. The nurse even tried but that stuff is sure stubborn!
Arianna has just woken up from her nap and she and grandma are making pumpkin pie! She had the largest smile when grandma asked her. She has been practicing her baking with the cupcake app on the iPad. She is dazzling grandma with her skills!
I am so happy to have my parents here again. I can now get a little bit more sleep with grandmas help.
If you dont hear from me again before thursday have a great Thanksgiving. We are thankful for so much this year! Our family has grown by one and so much more!
Arianna has just woken up from her nap and she and grandma are making pumpkin pie! She had the largest smile when grandma asked her. She has been practicing her baking with the cupcake app on the iPad. She is dazzling grandma with her skills!
I am so happy to have my parents here again. I can now get a little bit more sleep with grandmas help.
If you dont hear from me again before thursday have a great Thanksgiving. We are thankful for so much this year! Our family has grown by one and so much more!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Sunday, November 20
I hope you enjoy the new photo. It was difficult to get a good one. I originally had a fabric pumpkin hat on him but he didn't like it too well.
Last night was one of the best nights of sleep David and I have had in a long time! So thank you to everyone who has been praying for us. He also has nursed really well all day. We had a great family day today. We had a great breakfast made by chef David and spent the entire day together. We went grocery shopping. Can I just say that David is such a great dad! It was time for Isaac to eat while we were in the grocery store. David fed him and then carried him around the store in one hand while pushing the stroller in the other. Ari and I had moved on to get the job done. David is so proud of his children!
I am excited to have some family in this week for Thanksgiving. I have two more weeks of maternity leave. I think I will have practice getting ready on time the week before I go back!
Last night was one of the best nights of sleep David and I have had in a long time! So thank you to everyone who has been praying for us. He also has nursed really well all day. We had a great family day today. We had a great breakfast made by chef David and spent the entire day together. We went grocery shopping. Can I just say that David is such a great dad! It was time for Isaac to eat while we were in the grocery store. David fed him and then carried him around the store in one hand while pushing the stroller in the other. Ari and I had moved on to get the job done. David is so proud of his children!
I am excited to have some family in this week for Thanksgiving. I have two more weeks of maternity leave. I think I will have practice getting ready on time the week before I go back!
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Saturday, November 19
Well it is official...Isaac has red hair! It is a beautiful color but I never thought I would have child with red hair. I always thought that my children would have brown hair. His eyes are a dark grayish blue. He is also as of yesterday 7 pounds and half an ounce. My has he grown since August 12. He is still in newborn sized clothes and diapers. However I look for him to be out of those very soon.
I am extremely tired as he doesn't sleep very well after midnight. I am beginning to think that the NICU had parties every night between midnight and 4 am. He generally sleeps for about 15 minutes or less between those hours. Needless to say it is wearing on me. I Have tried many differnt things to try and get him to sleepfor at least an hour at a time to no avail. He also has a difficult time nursing now. I am kicking around the idea of stopping but the benefits of breast milk are so great. I am nor certain if these two issues are due to his prematurity or just him. I know arianna cried a lot the first month but I don't recall it being like this. If anyone wants to take a night shift for me please let me know!
Have a great rest of the weekend.
I am extremely tired as he doesn't sleep very well after midnight. I am beginning to think that the NICU had parties every night between midnight and 4 am. He generally sleeps for about 15 minutes or less between those hours. Needless to say it is wearing on me. I Have tried many differnt things to try and get him to sleepfor at least an hour at a time to no avail. He also has a difficult time nursing now. I am kicking around the idea of stopping but the benefits of breast milk are so great. I am nor certain if these two issues are due to his prematurity or just him. I know arianna cried a lot the first month but I don't recall it being like this. If anyone wants to take a night shift for me please let me know!
Have a great rest of the weekend.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Wednesday, November 16
Today Isaac weighed in at 6 lbs 15.5 ounces! He is almost 7 lbs. The nurse said that he is on the high end of then weight gain for a preemie. He hasn't had any episodes either which has caused his monitor to go off! This morning I looked at his monitor and noticed it wasnt blinking... Then I remembered that I had shut it off the night before to change the sensors that touch his body. Praise God he didn't have anything happen. I will never let that happen again!
Arianna still amazes me with her flexibility and willingness to share her parents with her brother. She doesn't complain when I ask her to wait for something while I am tending to him. On our iPad David bought her a game where she can bake and decorate cupcakes. She has been asking "Can I play with the cape-cups". She also has taken to a Shirley Temple video. The entire video is of Shirley dancing. arianna loves to watch it and has started to dance like Shirley. You should see the smile on may face.... I love that girl!
Arianna still amazes me with her flexibility and willingness to share her parents with her brother. She doesn't complain when I ask her to wait for something while I am tending to him. On our iPad David bought her a game where she can bake and decorate cupcakes. She has been asking "Can I play with the cape-cups". She also has taken to a Shirley Temple video. The entire video is of Shirley dancing. arianna loves to watch it and has started to dance like Shirley. You should see the smile on may face.... I love that girl!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Tuesday, november 15
It worked!Isaac slept an additional 2 hours in the swing last night. It made for a happier mommy! Tonight he ate two times what I feed him! So he ate 4 ounces in one sitting! Oh no! I think David better get a second job just to pay for his food! The nursing continues to be a challenge. Isaac sometimes nurses really well but other times he just eats for a few seconds and then just cries. I think that he is impatient with the flow between the bottle and me. He has to work harder when he nurses than when he eats out of a bottle.
we do not have any appointments for him this week. Other than the nurse coming over three times this week. He is now down to 1/16th of a liter on his oxygen. His saturation is contenting at 95 which it was this level at 1/4 liter. So I am beginning to wonder if the monitor is working properly....smile.
Someone said to me the other day that he thought that Isaac will be a very strong boy. One who does not give up and overcomes every challenge. I have thought all along that he is destined to be a doctor, lawyer or a business owner. I know that he will do great things. He already has at the great old age of three months!
Have a great night! I need to learn to sleep when they sleep!
we do not have any appointments for him this week. Other than the nurse coming over three times this week. He is now down to 1/16th of a liter on his oxygen. His saturation is contenting at 95 which it was this level at 1/4 liter. So I am beginning to wonder if the monitor is working properly....smile.
Someone said to me the other day that he thought that Isaac will be a very strong boy. One who does not give up and overcomes every challenge. I have thought all along that he is destined to be a doctor, lawyer or a business owner. I know that he will do great things. He already has at the great old age of three months!
Have a great night! I need to learn to sleep when they sleep!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Sunday, November 13
We are two weeks into having Isaac and we are still thriving! It was really nice to have David home last night and not to have to leave early in the morning to go to work. He really helped last night with Isaac and his frequent crying in the wee small hours of the morning. Isaac seems to do so well from bed time until about 1:30 am. Then after that he wakes me up with his crying and or grunting (which if I haven't already written, I was informed it was a preemie thing to grunt)! He does this until about 5 am.
I am happy to say that I have found a new best friend! The baby swing! LOVE IT! I have read that babies can swing in it for up to 8 hours. Although tempting at times I think that would be considered neglect. Isaac does pretty well until he starts having words with the monkey who swings from the bar above Isaac. For some reason they just don't get along which causes Isaac to start screaming and asking me to get him out. So I come to the rescue.
I guess that November 17 is National Preemie Awareness Day! Who knew there was such a day. I never would have paid attentionn to a day like that had I not found myself in this situation. Overall though Isaac is doing remarkably well. He is still on the lower amount of oxygen. I can actually carry the oxygen tank up by itself and then take up Isaac while he isn't hooked up to it and he doesn't even know it.
This is week 3 of my maternity leave. I am going to start doing more things around the house now that I know Isaac will stay in the swing and be content. Good news about the monkey is that he can be removed from the swing. This would leave the giraffe. He doesn't say much so Isaac is alright if he stays....smile!
Have a great week!
I am happy to say that I have found a new best friend! The baby swing! LOVE IT! I have read that babies can swing in it for up to 8 hours. Although tempting at times I think that would be considered neglect. Isaac does pretty well until he starts having words with the monkey who swings from the bar above Isaac. For some reason they just don't get along which causes Isaac to start screaming and asking me to get him out. So I come to the rescue.
I guess that November 17 is National Preemie Awareness Day! Who knew there was such a day. I never would have paid attentionn to a day like that had I not found myself in this situation. Overall though Isaac is doing remarkably well. He is still on the lower amount of oxygen. I can actually carry the oxygen tank up by itself and then take up Isaac while he isn't hooked up to it and he doesn't even know it.
This is week 3 of my maternity leave. I am going to start doing more things around the house now that I know Isaac will stay in the swing and be content. Good news about the monkey is that he can be removed from the swing. This would leave the giraffe. He doesn't say much so Isaac is alright if he stays....smile!
Have a great week!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Thursday, November 10
It has been longer than I thought since I last blogged. We took Isaac to the pulmonologist on Tuesday. He wanted us to start lowering his oxygen intake. He came home on 1/4 liter and we lowered it down to 1/8 liter. While he was at 1/4 his saturation was hovering around 95. It should be anything above 90. After lowering the oxygen it is still at 95. We will stay at this amount for a week and then try lowering it again until we have weaned him off of it.
The opthomolgist appointment brought good results as well. His eyes are progressing the way they should be. We go back again in two weeks for another check up.
The at home nurse came by yesterday and I a happy to report that he is now 6 pounds and 10 ounces. I am very pleased that he continues to gain weight at a steady pace.
Today was my first day by myself during the day. It went well overall. I had some friends come and visit so that was nice. However, I could tell arianna didn't get enough mommy time. My sweet girl is going through some changes but she is strong and I know she will make it. Sometimes I scoop her up and just remind her that she is still Loved and very special!
I called our insurance yesterday. We are maxed out with both our deductible and out of pocket for Isaac and me. It is a good thing as the bills have started rolling in.
Have a great night!
The opthomolgist appointment brought good results as well. His eyes are progressing the way they should be. We go back again in two weeks for another check up.
The at home nurse came by yesterday and I a happy to report that he is now 6 pounds and 10 ounces. I am very pleased that he continues to gain weight at a steady pace.
Today was my first day by myself during the day. It went well overall. I had some friends come and visit so that was nice. However, I could tell arianna didn't get enough mommy time. My sweet girl is going through some changes but she is strong and I know she will make it. Sometimes I scoop her up and just remind her that she is still Loved and very special!
I called our insurance yesterday. We are maxed out with both our deductible and out of pocket for Isaac and me. It is a good thing as the bills have started rolling in.
Have a great night!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Monday, November 7
Well today is my original due date. Instead I spent it changing Isaac's diaper, conversing with the in-home nurse and setting up appointments with the Early Intervention staff from the state of Illinois. I would like to thank all of those who alive in Illinois and pay taxes. Without your tax money Isaac wouldn't get some of the plans they have to offer. I have been advised by other moms to take advantage of any program he qualifies for. This is due to the fact that some symptoms may show up later and the programs can prevent further problems. Watching him though you wouldn't even know that he was early. I looked at the problems they look for in a three month old and Isaac already shows signs of being normal. Now his age is adjusted from today. In a month he will be considered a one month old instead of the actual 3 plus months that he truly is.
Tomorrow we have two appointments one with an opthamologist, who is another member of our church. Once again talk about how God goes before us. The next appointment is with the breathing doctor. I am hoping that he will try to start weaning him off of the oxygen (my third child-it follows me everywhere I go). I hope they don't take off the sticky circles on his face that hold the cannula. It has taken me three sets of new circles to get it right!
Please pray for me and David as we get used to being on our own with the two kids. Due to the nature of davids job he has to go to bed so early every night that I am left finishing up down on the first floor in order to get another feeding for Isaac before we go to bed. I am hoping that I don't get too exhausted as tonight he Isaac cried for about two hours...unfortunately his fussy time can move from early afternoon to evening with no warning at all!
I am getting very sleepy so good night!
Tomorrow we have two appointments one with an opthamologist, who is another member of our church. Once again talk about how God goes before us. The next appointment is with the breathing doctor. I am hoping that he will try to start weaning him off of the oxygen (my third child-it follows me everywhere I go). I hope they don't take off the sticky circles on his face that hold the cannula. It has taken me three sets of new circles to get it right!
Please pray for me and David as we get used to being on our own with the two kids. Due to the nature of davids job he has to go to bed so early every night that I am left finishing up down on the first floor in order to get another feeding for Isaac before we go to bed. I am hoping that I don't get too exhausted as tonight he Isaac cried for about two hours...unfortunately his fussy time can move from early afternoon to evening with no warning at all!
I am getting very sleepy so good night!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Saturday, November 5
Almost a full week of being a parent of two (@ home that is)! I think it is going well but I huts can't seem to get up too early in the morning. I don't know if it is because I am not getting enough sleep or that I don't have anywhere to go for the day. It is nice to be home to just take care of my family and house. My mom & dad have really helped out a lot! They shop and cook for me which are two major time consuming things. I am taking on more things and all I can say is that I am so glad that my healing has taken place from the c-section
Arianna seems to be doing a really good job as a big sister. As of today she seems to be adjusting really well. I wonder how she will be without mom and dad here and the attention they give her. the time is coming near when they will have to leave. I know people do it all the time and have two young children. Some even have worse situations than me. I'll make it work! My planning self will have to just relax and go with the flow for a while.
Isaac is doing really well. I had him on his tummy this afternoon and he is already lifting his head and moving his knees as if he was going to roll over. He is more alert and spends his awake time looking around. He even will sometimes look to find those who are talking. He wasn't even due to be born until Monday!
We think that he really likes to be home! I know David is happy to have the entire family under one roof.
As Arianna says...."Go team Iverson!" We are going to make it as a family of four!
Arianna seems to be doing a really good job as a big sister. As of today she seems to be adjusting really well. I wonder how she will be without mom and dad here and the attention they give her. the time is coming near when they will have to leave. I know people do it all the time and have two young children. Some even have worse situations than me. I'll make it work! My planning self will have to just relax and go with the flow for a while.
Isaac is doing really well. I had him on his tummy this afternoon and he is already lifting his head and moving his knees as if he was going to roll over. He is more alert and spends his awake time looking around. He even will sometimes look to find those who are talking. He wasn't even due to be born until Monday!
We think that he really likes to be home! I know David is happy to have the entire family under one roof.
As Arianna says...."Go team Iverson!" We are going to make it as a family of four!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Thursday, November 3
Hello everyone! Thank you for your patience as we figure out how to be a family of four! The week has been good and challenging all at the same time! Isaac is doing really well and is fitting in well. The first two nights were sleepless more due to a crying baby in our room. He would wake up every hour. I think it was hard for him to adjust to the quietness and darkness in our room. Then we noticed that he is stopped up in his nose and figured out that we need to prop him up in order to sleep better and to help him with a clear nose passage. Last night he slept about four hours in a row.... Wow was that nice! Also, the monitor is meant to wake him and his parents if he has a low heart rate or stops breathing. I quickly found out that the monitor only wakes ME and Isaac! Ari and david sleep right through it! Ari asks to hold him every hour. I have made her my diaper helper! She loves it! I am wondering if the novelty of him will wear off. Today I asked her to help and she told me she was busy...
I forgot how a newborn keeps you busy in so many ways. We have had a nurse stop in two-times this week! It was nice as she weighed him and he has gained 3 ounces already! I think that by association I have earned my nursing degree and by the end of his first year my MD.
So in summary I have been sprayed almost everyday as I change his diaper, our water bill will be cheaper as I haven't showered everyday, the oxygen and monitor are our 2 other children as they follow us everywhere we go and our room has 3 new pieces of furniture(a rocker, ottoman and bassinet)!
Oh and this is the first day I have been on a computer since Sunday!
Goodnight from the Iverson family of four!
I forgot how a newborn keeps you busy in so many ways. We have had a nurse stop in two-times this week! It was nice as she weighed him and he has gained 3 ounces already! I think that by association I have earned my nursing degree and by the end of his first year my MD.
So in summary I have been sprayed almost everyday as I change his diaper, our water bill will be cheaper as I haven't showered everyday, the oxygen and monitor are our 2 other children as they follow us everywhere we go and our room has 3 new pieces of furniture(a rocker, ottoman and bassinet)!
Oh and this is the first day I have been on a computer since Sunday!
Goodnight from the Iverson family of four!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Sunday, October 30
ISAAC IS COMING HOME! Today is the day! I received a call from the hospital at 12:30 saying that we have clearance to pick him up. The breathing monitor is charge, the oxygen is set up, his clothes are washed and the cameras are ready to go! I guess we are ready to be a family of 4. We went out for lunch, after church, today as a family of three for the last time. I think we are all ready. Arianna is trying to take a nap before we go. David seems to think she can sense the excitement as she isn't really sleeping. My mom and dad are coming up to visit for a while so we can get used to a routine. I think one of the hardest parts is going to keep Arianna from being too much of his mama. She wants to help so much!
I went to see him yesterday. I have to admit it was nice to bring home his last bit of laundry and to take my last bit of pumped milk. I was having a harder time with it last week but I now think I am ready! We saw a family at church today who was in a similar situation with their son. It was good to see how excited they were with us and how happy they were for us. Stay tuned... I will continue to update even though he is home.
He did turn 6 lbs on Friday by the way... so we are bringing home a 6 pounder.
Thank you for all of your prayers! Without them he wouldn't be where he is today and our family wouldn't be who we are either. We are so appreciative of all of you!
I went to see him yesterday. I have to admit it was nice to bring home his last bit of laundry and to take my last bit of pumped milk. I was having a harder time with it last week but I now think I am ready! We saw a family at church today who was in a similar situation with their son. It was good to see how excited they were with us and how happy they were for us. Stay tuned... I will continue to update even though he is home.
He did turn 6 lbs on Friday by the way... so we are bringing home a 6 pounder.
Thank you for all of your prayers! Without them he wouldn't be where he is today and our family wouldn't be who we are either. We are so appreciative of all of you!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
October 27, 2011
Papa Ivy here again giving the Lovliest Woman in The World a rest. Well, we got some training on all of the "stuff" that will be coming home with Isaac (an apnea monitor, oxygen, nebulizer, oxcimeter, and our personal favorite,....caffeine). He is not quite mature enough in his respiratory system to breath on his own, so the caffeine helps to stimulate him to breathe, and the monitors do, well,.....monitor.
It's a bit overwhelming to say the least and it has been almost 3 years since we had a "little one" in our home. We're both a bit nervous, but I'm sure it's just like riding a bike. It'll come back quickly. Besides,....we're anointed to be Isaac's parents.
Arianna is excited as well to have her little brother come home soon. It's looking like it will be this Sunday when he will make his grand entrance onto Longford Circle. It will be soooo good to have him home and we're believing for a steady yet quick healing in his lungs.
Got my flu shot today at Target,....OUCH!
Again, short and sweet. Now off to bed.
Peace,
Papa Ivy
It's a bit overwhelming to say the least and it has been almost 3 years since we had a "little one" in our home. We're both a bit nervous, but I'm sure it's just like riding a bike. It'll come back quickly. Besides,....we're anointed to be Isaac's parents.
Arianna is excited as well to have her little brother come home soon. It's looking like it will be this Sunday when he will make his grand entrance onto Longford Circle. It will be soooo good to have him home and we're believing for a steady yet quick healing in his lungs.
Got my flu shot today at Target,....OUCH!
Again, short and sweet. Now off to bed.
Peace,
Papa Ivy
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Wednesday October 26
Okay everyone, it is crunch time. I apologize for not having written in a few days. There are a few things going on that have kept me away from the computer in my free time. They are projecting that Isaac will be coming home as early as this Sunday!!!! So, that being said, David and I are running around getting things done. They are planning on sending him home on oxygen. Tomorrow night we have a training session on how to use the oxygen tank. With the tank comes a monitor which they have all said will unnecessarily go off in the middle of the night.. the true way of telling if Isaac is having an apnea episode is to look at him to see what color he is. Since he had his last episode on Monday morning, he has to be 5 days free of the apnea before they will send him home. Today is day one. They started him again on caffeine (which they found that it reminds them to breathe) yesterday. So, that is another thing that we have purchase, along with an inhaler, vitamins and formula. All of this by Sunday. The other thing is that I have been having some back pain which has moved into my left arm causing my fingers to be numb. I have started treatments for that today. Basically David is doing all of the running around to get things accomplished. I am also trying to finish up work on Friday. I plan to take at least the month of November off of work so I can get to know my son. I have to admit that there are times where I don't feel as if I have had a baby. I am nervous and excited all at once.
Please pray for David and I as we go through this training together, that we get what is important accomplished by the time Isaac arrives home. Thank you for your love and prayers. Honestly, without them we would not be where we are today. I hope to share Isaac with all of you soon. I will post more pictures once he is home.
He is currently up to 5 lbs 13 oz. We may be bringing home a 6 pounder. He is nothing less than adorable and I know that once we are home together it will feel natural and wonderful!
Love to all!
Please pray for David and I as we go through this training together, that we get what is important accomplished by the time Isaac arrives home. Thank you for your love and prayers. Honestly, without them we would not be where we are today. I hope to share Isaac with all of you soon. I will post more pictures once he is home.
He is currently up to 5 lbs 13 oz. We may be bringing home a 6 pounder. He is nothing less than adorable and I know that once we are home together it will feel natural and wonderful!
Love to all!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Sunday, October 23
Today I was the only one who went to visit Isaac today. David still has a sore throat and Arianna has a runny nose. We had to miss church again today, second week in a row, due to her runny nose. Anywho Isaac has been having more of the brady cardia episodes lately. Today they decided to perform a 12 hour sleeping test. They do not count the brady's when he is eating (again the brady cardia is when his heart rate dips below a certain level due to him not breathing) but only when he is sleeping or resting. They think that the reason why he is having them is due to reflux. This test is being formed as I type. It is one with a probe down his nose that goes into his stomach. I think Isaac has had more medical procedures performed on his 10 week old body then most people do by the time they are 40. Anyway, I am believing that through these tests, and possible further action, that they will be able to pinpoint what is going on and that we will be able to bring Isaac home within the next few weeks. He will be 38 gestational weeks old tomorrow. This is only 2 weeks away from my original due date. I think I am ready for him to come home now. I have his beds (one upstairs and one on the main floor) ready and his clothes washed.
They are projecting that he will come home on oxygen (I might have already written this information) and therefore he will have monitors for us to watch. This actually would be good for me since I don't want to stay awake every night to make sure he is breathing. The monitors will alert us to anything that might be going on.
We will keep you updated on his progress even when he gets home. Thank you for sticking by us through this process!
They are projecting that he will come home on oxygen (I might have already written this information) and therefore he will have monitors for us to watch. This actually would be good for me since I don't want to stay awake every night to make sure he is breathing. The monitors will alert us to anything that might be going on.
We will keep you updated on his progress even when he gets home. Thank you for sticking by us through this process!
Friday, October 21, 2011
Friday, October 21
Happy Friday everyone! I am glad it is Friday as I get to sleep in tomorrow! That is of course if Arianna lets me.
I went to visit Isaac tonight after work. I had to miss last night's visit because I wasn't feeling very well. I arrived about 4:30 to a very hungry boy. I know he associates my voice with a full tummy. He sure makes noises when he hears me come in the room. He nursed for a while and took a great amount of food. He seemed very uncomfortable and he seemed to be breathing very fast afterwards. The nurse said that maybe he had some more nasal drainage. He has been having a lot ever since he found himself in the isolation room a few weeks ago. I am talking about adult size drainage... I noticed it seemed as if he was choking on something and couldn't breath. His monitors didn't go off so I knew it wasn't that bad. The nurse asked if I was alright if they suctioned out his nose (we had an episode a few days ago where the nurse suctioned too much, David has since had a conversation with the charge nurse so I think they are very sensitive to what they do in front of us... way to go David-our protector). I agreed to a few suctions. She did retrieve some that made him more comfortable. Please be believing with us that the Doctors have wisdom about his nasal drainage as this could cause him to have the brady cardias if it isn't cleared up by the time he comes home. It is obvious that he gets distraught about the feeling. His face gets a worried look, his mouth puckers and his eyes get big and he starts to look around vigorously. His reflexes are too young and underdeveloped to know how to help him get it out of the back of his throat.
Please also pray with us that they doctors know exactly when the right time is for him to come home. I am not in a hurry as I want him to be the healthiest he can be when he comes home. I do not want to have to call 911...
Thank you, love all of you!
I went to visit Isaac tonight after work. I had to miss last night's visit because I wasn't feeling very well. I arrived about 4:30 to a very hungry boy. I know he associates my voice with a full tummy. He sure makes noises when he hears me come in the room. He nursed for a while and took a great amount of food. He seemed very uncomfortable and he seemed to be breathing very fast afterwards. The nurse said that maybe he had some more nasal drainage. He has been having a lot ever since he found himself in the isolation room a few weeks ago. I am talking about adult size drainage... I noticed it seemed as if he was choking on something and couldn't breath. His monitors didn't go off so I knew it wasn't that bad. The nurse asked if I was alright if they suctioned out his nose (we had an episode a few days ago where the nurse suctioned too much, David has since had a conversation with the charge nurse so I think they are very sensitive to what they do in front of us... way to go David-our protector). I agreed to a few suctions. She did retrieve some that made him more comfortable. Please be believing with us that the Doctors have wisdom about his nasal drainage as this could cause him to have the brady cardias if it isn't cleared up by the time he comes home. It is obvious that he gets distraught about the feeling. His face gets a worried look, his mouth puckers and his eyes get big and he starts to look around vigorously. His reflexes are too young and underdeveloped to know how to help him get it out of the back of his throat.
Please also pray with us that they doctors know exactly when the right time is for him to come home. I am not in a hurry as I want him to be the healthiest he can be when he comes home. I do not want to have to call 911...
Thank you, love all of you!
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Wednesday, October 19
We had our meeting yesterday with the dietitian, occupational therapist, lactation consultant and the social worker. It went well. They mentioned that most likely he will be coming home on oxygen. Which means that we will have to go in for oxygen training and some basic CPR. I am a little nervous about that but just like everything with this whole ordeal.... we will make it work and overcome every obstacle. I also think I started the rumor around the NICU that he was coming home on Friday. He will not, he had a brady cardia again this morning which bought him at least 5 more days. He has to be 5 days free of those before they will allow him to come home. We are alright with that and are praying for more growth in his lungs and for them to be strong. I do not want to bring him home and he have any episodes on my clock. If he comes home on oxygen he will come home with all of the monitors as well. Those that go off if something isn't right. All of the nurses and doctor say though that if a baby comes home on oxygen they don't keep it for very long as they do really well at home.
Isaac is well over 5 lbs now and on his way to 6 lbs. I was holding him tonight and wow is he getting thick in the middle. It is confirmed he has a double chin. I think he is even getting a fat roll right at his wrist. Arianna never had rolls... she was always 25% in her weight as she has been growing. She eats well and eats a lot at times so it is a wonder to me how she stays so thin.
Tonight when we were sitting at the dinner table Arianna was drinking her milk. She got excited and said "look, they are getting bigger!" She was talking about her bones. David has been telling her that milk helps her bones to grow. I guess she picked up on that! She went to the dentist today for the first time. She received a good bill of health... I should hope so, she is only 2 1/2... we have been faithfully brushing those teeth. One can never start too early with good hygiene!
Have a great rest of the week.
Isaac is well over 5 lbs now and on his way to 6 lbs. I was holding him tonight and wow is he getting thick in the middle. It is confirmed he has a double chin. I think he is even getting a fat roll right at his wrist. Arianna never had rolls... she was always 25% in her weight as she has been growing. She eats well and eats a lot at times so it is a wonder to me how she stays so thin.
Tonight when we were sitting at the dinner table Arianna was drinking her milk. She got excited and said "look, they are getting bigger!" She was talking about her bones. David has been telling her that milk helps her bones to grow. I guess she picked up on that! She went to the dentist today for the first time. She received a good bill of health... I should hope so, she is only 2 1/2... we have been faithfully brushing those teeth. One can never start too early with good hygiene!
Have a great rest of the week.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Sunday, October 16
Hello again everyone. It has been so long since I blogged. I find myself busy getting ready (as much as I can) for Isaac's homecoming. He has had a nurse over the past 2 days who is pushing to get him home I think. She has mentioned a few times to us that the only thing that is keeping him in the hospital right now is the oxygen. Today his oxygen is down to a level that babies can be sent home on an oxygen tank. So depending upon how he reacts to the change... it could be later in the week. We have a meeting with the hospital staff on Tuesday evening to talk about what it will look like when he comes home. At that time I am sure they will give us a projected discharge date!
Today we have a 5 lb baby! Weigh (get it) to go Isaac! He is quickly moving through my stored milk that is in the freezer... I am looking forward to when he comes home so he can nurse most of the time and then my milk supply can increase for him.
We are on the home stretch. Please be praying for him to be physically ready to come home, for the nurses and doctors to have wisdom of when to send him home and for David and I to get all of our questions answered on Tuesday. Questions are coming to me daily and I am writing them down so we can get them answered. I just don't want to miss anything.
Have a great week!
Today we have a 5 lb baby! Weigh (get it) to go Isaac! He is quickly moving through my stored milk that is in the freezer... I am looking forward to when he comes home so he can nurse most of the time and then my milk supply can increase for him.
We are on the home stretch. Please be praying for him to be physically ready to come home, for the nurses and doctors to have wisdom of when to send him home and for David and I to get all of our questions answered on Tuesday. Questions are coming to me daily and I am writing them down so we can get them answered. I just don't want to miss anything.
Have a great week!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
October 13, 2011
Isaac is slowly creeping up on 5lbs. He is down to a .75L flow on his oxygen. The less he gets, the more he is breathing on his own, which is a good thing. Eating like a horse as usual, he nursed for 60 min. and ate nearly 2oz. again! Whew!!! T talked to the occupational therapist today. According to the OT, he is making excellent progress. He can hold his head up while on his tummy and then look each way before laying his heavy head back down. Great news! That's our Rocky.
We meet with the physical therapist, occ. therapist, and some other medical professionals regarding what to do with Isaac on Tuesday, 10/18. I have a feeling that he may be coming home in under 2 weeks, but we'll find out soon.
That's all for now. Short and sweet, just like our boy!
Love,
Papa Ivy
We meet with the physical therapist, occ. therapist, and some other medical professionals regarding what to do with Isaac on Tuesday, 10/18. I have a feeling that he may be coming home in under 2 weeks, but we'll find out soon.
That's all for now. Short and sweet, just like our boy!
Love,
Papa Ivy
Monday, October 10, 2011
Monday, October 10
My weekend is coming to an close.... sad... Mom and dad were here for a few days which brought a lot of laughter into their lives. I think Arianna loves to make them laugh. She loves to hide from Poppy and Nena and she read books to each other. Poppy had her in the back of his truck walking around (like he he did when he was a kid). She seemed to not want to get out of the bed of his truck.
Isaac is doing well today. I went there to spend an extended stay with him and ended up spending about 3 1/2 hours. I have to say that is the longest I have been there visiting him. He just wouldn't nurse. He was so tired. I think maybe he had a party in his crib last night because he was tuckered! He had eaten earlier in the day and was awake but I guess he needed his beauty sleep. He finished his blood transfusion today too. So he had 2 of them over the past two days. I just spoke to tonight's nurse. She said that he ate 50 mls for her tonight and seemed to be awake. Later tonight she was going to give him a "wishy washy" which she said would make him feel better. I thought that was the cutest name for a bath! She also said that he had a sore on the outside of his cheek where one of the stickers oare to keep his nasal cannula in place. So she said that might have been irritating him which caused him not to eat very well earlier in the day.
One of the head nurses came by today and said once again that the only thing keeping him there is the oxygen. She decided to stop his caffiene today so he will not be getting any more doses. She also said they will start weaning him off of some of the oxygen and other things so he will be ready to go home soon...We have an appointment with a hospital crew next Tuesday to go over what will happen when he goes home... I am getting so excited. I think the neighbors will think he is adopted. As I don't look pregnant anymore (I can see my extra weight!) because I don't have the big tummy....
I better go.. have to start storing up on sleep before he gets home!
Isaac is doing well today. I went there to spend an extended stay with him and ended up spending about 3 1/2 hours. I have to say that is the longest I have been there visiting him. He just wouldn't nurse. He was so tired. I think maybe he had a party in his crib last night because he was tuckered! He had eaten earlier in the day and was awake but I guess he needed his beauty sleep. He finished his blood transfusion today too. So he had 2 of them over the past two days. I just spoke to tonight's nurse. She said that he ate 50 mls for her tonight and seemed to be awake. Later tonight she was going to give him a "wishy washy" which she said would make him feel better. I thought that was the cutest name for a bath! She also said that he had a sore on the outside of his cheek where one of the stickers oare to keep his nasal cannula in place. So she said that might have been irritating him which caused him not to eat very well earlier in the day.
One of the head nurses came by today and said once again that the only thing keeping him there is the oxygen. She decided to stop his caffiene today so he will not be getting any more doses. She also said they will start weaning him off of some of the oxygen and other things so he will be ready to go home soon...We have an appointment with a hospital crew next Tuesday to go over what will happen when he goes home... I am getting so excited. I think the neighbors will think he is adopted. As I don't look pregnant anymore (I can see my extra weight!) because I don't have the big tummy....
I better go.. have to start storing up on sleep before he gets home!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Sunday, Octobedr 9
What another nice day here in Illinois. David, Arianna and I went to a park this afternoon. Arianna loves to swing. She was the most adventurous than I have ever seen her. She climbed ropes, stairs and slid down a the largest slide. Then we found an empty soccer field and ran around in the open space. I know it doesn't sound too exciting but where we live open grass with no one around is VERY rare! The three of us ran a race back to the car. We were all winded. Okay, I guess I need to start exercising again.
Today I went to see Isaac by myself. David couldn't go because he has the sniffles. The doctor decided to give him another blood transfusion. Hopefully his last. I decided to stay and watch him get the IV put in his hand. I almost left before it started but am so glad that I stayed. I was able to talk to him and comfort him the best I could while they were putting it in his hand. He was such a trooper. The nurse said that this transfusion should be the one that helps boost him in to being able to going home. She said that what is keeping him there is his need for oxygen. So this transfusion should help him with his oxygen level, help him not labor so much to breathe and to help his heart rate stay within range as it has been higher lately.
I took in the bottle for him to get used to. I called the nurse tonight and she said he didn't do too well on it but that they would try again later. I am off tomorrow due to Columbus Day. Therefore, I will be going in early to see him tomorrow and for an extended stay. I love that boy!
Good night!
Today I went to see Isaac by myself. David couldn't go because he has the sniffles. The doctor decided to give him another blood transfusion. Hopefully his last. I decided to stay and watch him get the IV put in his hand. I almost left before it started but am so glad that I stayed. I was able to talk to him and comfort him the best I could while they were putting it in his hand. He was such a trooper. The nurse said that this transfusion should be the one that helps boost him in to being able to going home. She said that what is keeping him there is his need for oxygen. So this transfusion should help him with his oxygen level, help him not labor so much to breathe and to help his heart rate stay within range as it has been higher lately.
I took in the bottle for him to get used to. I called the nurse tonight and she said he didn't do too well on it but that they would try again later. I am off tomorrow due to Columbus Day. Therefore, I will be going in early to see him tomorrow and for an extended stay. I love that boy!
Good night!
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Saturday, October 8
Hello everyone, it has been a while since I have posted. Isaac is doing well. He is definitely filling out. Some of the smallest preemie clothes he is actually almost too long for. Today he weighs in at 4 lbs 10 oz. We might have a 5 pounder on our hand by the end of next week if he keeps gaining like he is. He gained 2 ounces in one day! He has been nursing very well over the past few days. Today Isaac nursed 38 ml which tire dhim out. David and I have to continually call or remind the nurses that I am coming to nurse at a certain time and ask them to give him only a snack if he is hungry an hour before I get there. That has seemed to be helping. I also asked about nipple confusion and if the bottle vs. the breast vs. the pacifier would cause any. I was told that preemies virtually never get nipple confusion. They have removed his feeding tube so he is completely feeding from his mouth! One step closer to being home!
Last night the doctor was talking about a possible blood transfusion again due to his heart rate still being elevated. The elevation is a sign of being enemic. However, I think his coloring is so much better and he doesn't look as pale. When I asked the nurse about it today she said sometimes if they give a blood transfusion too late in the game it actually hurts their development. So please believe with us that the doctors and nurses have wisdom for about what is best for him in the long run.
Isaac sure looks good. He hears our voices and opens his eyes and tries to find us. My mom and dad are here this weekend and we are getting things ready. We just got back from Babies R Us and picked up some things for when he comes home. I bought one bottle for him. The nurses suggested that I bring in a bottle that I plan on feeding him with when he is home (when David feeds him) or at the babysitters. This is so we can make sure that he is accustomed to it and the flow of the milk out of that particular nipple.
It is a beautiful weekend here in Illinois. Infact, I think after dinner tonight we will take Arianna to park to get her fill before the cold really sets in.
Have a great weekend!
Last night the doctor was talking about a possible blood transfusion again due to his heart rate still being elevated. The elevation is a sign of being enemic. However, I think his coloring is so much better and he doesn't look as pale. When I asked the nurse about it today she said sometimes if they give a blood transfusion too late in the game it actually hurts their development. So please believe with us that the doctors and nurses have wisdom for about what is best for him in the long run.
Isaac sure looks good. He hears our voices and opens his eyes and tries to find us. My mom and dad are here this weekend and we are getting things ready. We just got back from Babies R Us and picked up some things for when he comes home. I bought one bottle for him. The nurses suggested that I bring in a bottle that I plan on feeding him with when he is home (when David feeds him) or at the babysitters. This is so we can make sure that he is accustomed to it and the flow of the milk out of that particular nipple.
It is a beautiful weekend here in Illinois. Infact, I think after dinner tonight we will take Arianna to park to get her fill before the cold really sets in.
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, October 6, 2011
October 6, 2011
After all the kings horses and all the kings men did there best to find a virus, alas....there was none!! They tested for influenza, RSV(common cold for adults), and other viruses/infections. In just under a week he has gone from eating 35ml at once to 70ml just this morning! The nurses and doctors have started "demand feeding" with Isaac right now to see how he does. So everytime he opens his little eyes, in goes a bottle or mommy. He has to have a minimum of at least 80ml every 8 hours,..I think. Just for the record, we're not big fans of demand feeding. We prefer a schedule. Worked with Arianna, it'll work with Isaac.
He is back in his old room. Boy likes to travel! Next step is to wean him of his nasal canula (the thing supplying air to his lungs). He can't quite breathe on his own just yet and that's why it's there. Met with the occupational/physical therapist and he is right on target with all his developmental goals. Yayyyy! Gained only 15grams, but a gain is a gain. Arianna got to hold him yesterday and she is still on cloud 9! We sang to him "Twinkle, twinkle, little star" as well as the alphabet. Can't start too early, huh?
Neena and Papi are up from Keithsburg, IL to visit and continue to help us get ready for little man's homecoming. Can't wait to have all my family under one roof. I need more testosterone in this place! LOL!
Look for pictures on this blog of Arianna holding Isaac and giving him kisses. She is such a great "big sister" and will be a big blessing/help when he comes home.
We love you and thank you for allowing us to share our lives with you!
Peace,
Papa Ivy
He is back in his old room. Boy likes to travel! Next step is to wean him of his nasal canula (the thing supplying air to his lungs). He can't quite breathe on his own just yet and that's why it's there. Met with the occupational/physical therapist and he is right on target with all his developmental goals. Yayyyy! Gained only 15grams, but a gain is a gain. Arianna got to hold him yesterday and she is still on cloud 9! We sang to him "Twinkle, twinkle, little star" as well as the alphabet. Can't start too early, huh?
Neena and Papi are up from Keithsburg, IL to visit and continue to help us get ready for little man's homecoming. Can't wait to have all my family under one roof. I need more testosterone in this place! LOL!
Look for pictures on this blog of Arianna holding Isaac and giving him kisses. She is such a great "big sister" and will be a big blessing/help when he comes home.
We love you and thank you for allowing us to share our lives with you!
Peace,
Papa Ivy
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
October 4, 2011
Papa Ivy here once again for Mama. Isaac is doing well and all of his tests have come back negative. The nurses haven't suctioned any more green mucus out of him since he came in, which is a good sign. He ate a whopping 50ml in one sitting today!! That's up from 35ml yesterday. Still eating like his papa.....
Spent some time with him today after work just holding him and kissing him on the head. Changed his big boy diapers and took his temper,..all is well in both regards. It's hard to imagine that in just five weeks will have been his "original" due date (when he was SUPPOSED to come out). He just couldn't wait....sheeeeeesh! T and I have fallen in love all over again with our little man. We're also learning to help Arianna with adjusting to the new situation. She is adjusting quite well but will get her world rocked when Isaac actually comes home. All is well.
That's all for now. Thank you again for allowing us to share this wonderful, trying, beautiful, and tiring season with you. We love each and every one of you. Peace.
Spent some time with him today after work just holding him and kissing him on the head. Changed his big boy diapers and took his temper,..all is well in both regards. It's hard to imagine that in just five weeks will have been his "original" due date (when he was SUPPOSED to come out). He just couldn't wait....sheeeeeesh! T and I have fallen in love all over again with our little man. We're also learning to help Arianna with adjusting to the new situation. She is adjusting quite well but will get her world rocked when Isaac actually comes home. All is well.
That's all for now. Thank you again for allowing us to share this wonderful, trying, beautiful, and tiring season with you. We love each and every one of you. Peace.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Monday, October 3
I really thought I posted yesterday. However, I guess not... anywho, I was extactic yesterday when I left the hospital. I was able to spend about 2 hours with him which was so nice! He looked really good and nursed his whole feeding and then some. The nurse and I were so proud of him. I think I even saw a double chin???
Today I called for an updated and he had been having more of the brady cardias again. They also noticed that he had some colored drainage coming out of his nose. They did a CBC and found that he has a virus. They are not giving him any medications for it but they have moved him back from the immediate care unit to the intensive care unit and have isolated him in his own room. They thought he might have a certain kind of virus and that test came back negative which was a huge blessing. He looked really good though when David and I both visited, at two different times. When I arrived after work he was wide awake looking around and very content. I was sad that they had just finished feeding him. However, he did take his entire feeding from the bottle rather than through the tube in his nose. I wasn't able to nurse either since he had just been fed. Someone told me that I should have them give him today's pumped milk since it would most likely have the ability to help him fight off the virus since I have been around him yesterday. Does anyone know if there is some truth to that? I know breast milk is a great help to their immune system but hadn't heard that specific detail.
Please pray for his quick healing from this virus and that they will not have to give him another blood transfusion as his white blood cell count is down. The good thing is that the doctor that was on today was the one that goes to our church. I know she hears from God and can help out anyway that she can.
Thank you everyone!
Today I called for an updated and he had been having more of the brady cardias again. They also noticed that he had some colored drainage coming out of his nose. They did a CBC and found that he has a virus. They are not giving him any medications for it but they have moved him back from the immediate care unit to the intensive care unit and have isolated him in his own room. They thought he might have a certain kind of virus and that test came back negative which was a huge blessing. He looked really good though when David and I both visited, at two different times. When I arrived after work he was wide awake looking around and very content. I was sad that they had just finished feeding him. However, he did take his entire feeding from the bottle rather than through the tube in his nose. I wasn't able to nurse either since he had just been fed. Someone told me that I should have them give him today's pumped milk since it would most likely have the ability to help him fight off the virus since I have been around him yesterday. Does anyone know if there is some truth to that? I know breast milk is a great help to their immune system but hadn't heard that specific detail.
Please pray for his quick healing from this virus and that they will not have to give him another blood transfusion as his white blood cell count is down. The good thing is that the doctor that was on today was the one that goes to our church. I know she hears from God and can help out anyway that she can.
Thank you everyone!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Saturday, October 2
Good evening. I hope this finds everyone well. Isaac is doing well. I missed visiting him yesterday. My second day of not seeing him. It is difficult but I know he won't remember or even know I didn't visit him yesterday. I did go today though, for a longer visit than normal. He looks really good. He was sleeping peacfully when I arrived. He was swaddled and wrapped snuggly in his blanket. I really like him being in an open crib. I know I have said this before, but he is so accessible and I love to kiss his little head and this crib allows me to do this whenever I want! I went during one of his feedings. Today was the first time that the nurse weighed him before and after he nursed. He nursed really well today and by the time he was done he had taken 20 ml of his 33 ml feeding. The nurse and I were both amazed.
He again has gained weight and now he ways 4 lbs 3.1 oz. I had to have him undressed some while nursing so he would wake up and not be too comfortable where he would fall asleep. His leg, arms and chest have all filled out so nicely that he doesn't look as if he has chicken legs any longer. I think I even saw a double chin...
I am happy to say that I am moving forward in getting things ready for him. I have a list of things I need to purchase before he comes home. I know I better get ready!
Love to all!!! Have a good rest of the weekend.
He again has gained weight and now he ways 4 lbs 3.1 oz. I had to have him undressed some while nursing so he would wake up and not be too comfortable where he would fall asleep. His leg, arms and chest have all filled out so nicely that he doesn't look as if he has chicken legs any longer. I think I even saw a double chin...
I am happy to say that I am moving forward in getting things ready for him. I have a list of things I need to purchase before he comes home. I know I better get ready!
Love to all!!! Have a good rest of the weekend.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Thursday, September 29
Sorry to leave everyone hanging out there from Tuesday's post. I didn't have the energy to write last night. Isaac is doing well. He is having more of the bradys than before Tuesday night. So the doctors and nurses are trying different things. One is that they feel as if he has gotten a lot of mucus from the nasal cannula which is in the to photo on the blog. So they have been suctioning it out every so often so he has fewer bradys. He does not like it. In fact he seems to get mad at the nurses and holds his breath inspite of their efforts.
One of Isaac's doctors was there when I was there tonight. She said that today's nurse seemed to think that Isaac had some reflux and that might be why he has so much mucus in his throat. So they might try another medication to get him to move forward through these bradys. She told me that he might even be on it for over a month. I of course don't like that. I hate giving medication to babies. BUT right now if it helps his lungs to mature than what choice do we have?
Isaac has also nursed very well for the past few days. I am so happy with his progress. He doesn't nurse very long because he gets tuckered out really quickly. I have started calling him my champion. Truly this little boy has been through more than what I went through when I delivered him. Thankfully he will not remember any of it. I almost forgot that Isaac is now 4 lbs 1 oz!
I went to see my doctor today and he said I am free to live my life as normal, to do the things that I was banned from for a while. I asked him if he could keep the ban on exercise and he said he couldn't do that. Here I thought Doctor Johnson and I bonded through this ordeal and he was on my side...
Good night faithful readers! Much love to you and your family!
One of Isaac's doctors was there when I was there tonight. She said that today's nurse seemed to think that Isaac had some reflux and that might be why he has so much mucus in his throat. So they might try another medication to get him to move forward through these bradys. She told me that he might even be on it for over a month. I of course don't like that. I hate giving medication to babies. BUT right now if it helps his lungs to mature than what choice do we have?
Isaac has also nursed very well for the past few days. I am so happy with his progress. He doesn't nurse very long because he gets tuckered out really quickly. I have started calling him my champion. Truly this little boy has been through more than what I went through when I delivered him. Thankfully he will not remember any of it. I almost forgot that Isaac is now 4 lbs 1 oz!
I went to see my doctor today and he said I am free to live my life as normal, to do the things that I was banned from for a while. I asked him if he could keep the ban on exercise and he said he couldn't do that. Here I thought Doctor Johnson and I bonded through this ordeal and he was on my side...
Good night faithful readers! Much love to you and your family!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Tuesday, September 27
Okay, everyone, this does end well. I have to tell you what happened to me tonight. I went to see our darling son. He looked so peaceful wrapped up in his open crib sleeping soundly. The nurses have changed Isaac's feedings to be around 5PM so I can nurse him when I get off of work. He did very well yesterday. I went in tonight thinking the same thing. He was very sleepy as I tried to wake him up to nurse. The nurse was standing over my shoulder as he did start to nurse. Just like yesterday he started to brady (quits breathing and heart rate drops). However yesterday his heart rate came back up immediately and he kept nursing.... today a different story. His heart rate kept dropping and dropping. The nurse had me hold him up right and lean him forward as she thought he must have gotten some milk that he didn't know how to swallow. Preemies have to learn how to swallow after being fed through a tube for so long. Needless to say he turned blue and was lifeless. The nurse took him from me and put him in his crib as she was trying to stimulate him to start breathing. I asked if she needed help and she asked me to get a nurse from outside the room. When I asked the 3 nurses, who were sitting there, for the specific nurse they said she had left. I told them that Isaac's nurse needed help. To which they sprung into action. Immediately (okay, it felt like forever) 5 nurses were by his bedside helping. I needed to leave the room as I couldn't stand there and watch him. I started pacing up and down the hall praying... then I started saying out of my mouth that Isaac shall live and not die and he will declare the works of the Lord, no weapon formed against him shall prosper! I tell you, I don't think I have ever been so scared in my life. It felt like forever but in reality it was probably a matter of 5 minutes from beginning to end. I felt sick to my stomach as I stood there watching the color come back to his body and he started to cry. He had been stripped down to his diaper and they had taken out his nasal cannula in order to stablize him. They brought out the air bag which later I was told breaths for him when he couldn't. The doctor was called out of a delivery to come and assess him. She said he was back to normal and it was most likely that he had gotten too much milk at once and didn't know what to do. They also said that preemies don't know how to cough out anything that might be stuck in their throat.
After it was all over with I was left with him and the original nurse as we changed his diaper and dressed him. I just started weeping. I couldn't stop... my sweet son. She let me hold him in order to feed him through the tube in his nose. My tears were like Mary's washing Jesus's feet, soft and steady. However my tears were a release of pressure from the build up from the past 2 months and everything that has gone on in my life. My tears dropped onto Isaac's soft little sleeping head. He laid in my arms with his two fingers in his mouth like nothing ever happened.
I called the nurse around 7 tonight since her shift was over then. She assured me that it was an isolated episode and that I should not be scared to nurse him again tomorrow. Thankfully she will be there again tomorrow and hopefully she will have Isaac again. The nursing staff was great at how they handled the event.
Please pray for him to get stronger and stronger, for him to learn how to suck, swallow and breath at the same time.
Thank you for your love and prayers. I hope to never have to witness that again!
After it was all over with I was left with him and the original nurse as we changed his diaper and dressed him. I just started weeping. I couldn't stop... my sweet son. She let me hold him in order to feed him through the tube in his nose. My tears were like Mary's washing Jesus's feet, soft and steady. However my tears were a release of pressure from the build up from the past 2 months and everything that has gone on in my life. My tears dropped onto Isaac's soft little sleeping head. He laid in my arms with his two fingers in his mouth like nothing ever happened.
I called the nurse around 7 tonight since her shift was over then. She assured me that it was an isolated episode and that I should not be scared to nurse him again tomorrow. Thankfully she will be there again tomorrow and hopefully she will have Isaac again. The nursing staff was great at how they handled the event.
Please pray for him to get stronger and stronger, for him to learn how to suck, swallow and breath at the same time.
Thank you for your love and prayers. I hope to never have to witness that again!
Monday, September 26, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
Well today Isaac has moved to a room with a view. In a way it's a promotion. Not that we ever doubted that he would get better. It just means he's progressed to a point where he doesn't need to be where he was. He now weighs a whopping 3lbs. 14oz and nursing like a champ. He took to it right away and was soooo happy when he was all done! It is so nice to have that cpap off of him. I know I've said it before, but it truly makes a difference when T and I can see his face and kiss him on his precious head.
Got to hold him for a bit today. He was so relaxed that his heart rate dropped a few times (a.k.a. "brady"). If it falls below 130 beats per minute an alarm will go off alerting the nurses. It only takes a few pats on the butt or rubbing the back or scratching the head. Really anything to stimulate him so he gets back up to 150-185bpm. Feels so right holding him.
The hardest part for me right now is not having him home. T and I usually split time with him. I'll come after work early in the afternoon then go home. T will then come after work around 4:30pm. This means Arianna and I are by ourselves for dinner without our fearless Captain Meals (a.k.a. Mommy) leading the way...ARRRRRRRGH! In all honesty it will be such a relief when he comes home.
Thank you once again for allowing us to share our hearts with you. Your friendship and prayers mean everything to us.
In His loving arms, Papa Ivy.
Got to hold him for a bit today. He was so relaxed that his heart rate dropped a few times (a.k.a. "brady"). If it falls below 130 beats per minute an alarm will go off alerting the nurses. It only takes a few pats on the butt or rubbing the back or scratching the head. Really anything to stimulate him so he gets back up to 150-185bpm. Feels so right holding him.
The hardest part for me right now is not having him home. T and I usually split time with him. I'll come after work early in the afternoon then go home. T will then come after work around 4:30pm. This means Arianna and I are by ourselves for dinner without our fearless Captain Meals (a.k.a. Mommy) leading the way...ARRRRRRRGH! In all honesty it will be such a relief when he comes home.
Thank you once again for allowing us to share our hearts with you. Your friendship and prayers mean everything to us.
In His loving arms, Papa Ivy.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Sunday, September 25
Another beautiful fall day here in Illinois. It cool and nice and sunny. I think the weatherman was misinformed, they prodicted rain?
Isaac is still doing quite well. I was alarmed the other day when the doctor said it could be soon. I asked him if he would give me a warning and he said yes. But he didn't tell me how much of a warning. I have some things to do before he gets home (grandmas, if you are reading this let's plan a visit... smile).
Isaac has also started nursing. He has nursed two times and he has done amazingly well. It was as if he knew exactly what God had designed for nutrition. The nurses have been amazed at his ability to take to both a bottle and breast. All I could do was smile and praise God for His goodness to the Iverson family. David is off visitng Isaac now, he is coming home so I can go visit. The Chicago Bears play @ 3, which we always like to watch (except when they are losing). I told David, "very soon we will be a family of 4 watching the games from our own TV).
Enjoy the new photos. They were taken just a few days ago.
P.S. Arianna is still stealing David's and my heart with all of her cuteness. She is such a delight.... Taco II is still alive and swimming.
Isaac is still doing quite well. I was alarmed the other day when the doctor said it could be soon. I asked him if he would give me a warning and he said yes. But he didn't tell me how much of a warning. I have some things to do before he gets home (grandmas, if you are reading this let's plan a visit... smile).
Isaac has also started nursing. He has nursed two times and he has done amazingly well. It was as if he knew exactly what God had designed for nutrition. The nurses have been amazed at his ability to take to both a bottle and breast. All I could do was smile and praise God for His goodness to the Iverson family. David is off visitng Isaac now, he is coming home so I can go visit. The Chicago Bears play @ 3, which we always like to watch (except when they are losing). I told David, "very soon we will be a family of 4 watching the games from our own TV).
Enjoy the new photos. They were taken just a few days ago.
P.S. Arianna is still stealing David's and my heart with all of her cuteness. She is such a delight.... Taco II is still alive and swimming.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Isaac has definitely been busy the last few days. He's up to 3lbs. 11.5oz and growing. Off the bubble cpap and in a big boy crib now. Soooo much more accessible to kiss him on his head. Wearing preemie clothes instead of the hospital issued garb. Spoke with the in house preemie physical therapist and she said he is where he should be developmentally speaking. Oh and by the way he is now feeding off of a bottle. He's only eating a small portion this way because it tuckers him out.
We're excited and things are beginning to pick up. That's all for now.
We're excited and things are beginning to pick up. That's all for now.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Wednesday, September 21
Okay, before I start, please forgive me if there are typos in this post. I find myself tired again this week. Isaac isn't even home and mama is tired!
So, I called the NICU around 9:30 this morning. Again, nothing new today, C-PAP, gained some weight, etc. THEN..........I get a photo texted to me from David. Isaac is in a big boy crib! An open crib! They moved him right after I called. He is itty bitty in it but what an exciting day. They are trying to see if he can regulate his own body temperature. As of tonight when we were in the NICU he was doing fine. It was weird though because the bed is wider and he is in the middle. I can't reach him as well. but I can sure see him!
Arianna came in with us tonight too. She did so well in the NICU tonight, probably the best ever. She sang twinkle twinkle little star to him. She got so excited too when he opened his eyes a few times. She kept wanting to touch him.
Isaac's heart rate kept elevating. I asked the nanny about it and she said that his heart rate typically goes up when he is awake. But when he is resting, it is back to normal. However, when she went to feed him around 6 PM she pulled out a large air pocket out of his tummy. I think he might have had gas and that was giving him a tummy ache. Once the air pocket was out he rested peacefully again. I actually think he cried louder than Arianna did as a newborn. It will be so fun getting to know him when he is home!
So, I called the NICU around 9:30 this morning. Again, nothing new today, C-PAP, gained some weight, etc. THEN..........I get a photo texted to me from David. Isaac is in a big boy crib! An open crib! They moved him right after I called. He is itty bitty in it but what an exciting day. They are trying to see if he can regulate his own body temperature. As of tonight when we were in the NICU he was doing fine. It was weird though because the bed is wider and he is in the middle. I can't reach him as well. but I can sure see him!
Arianna came in with us tonight too. She did so well in the NICU tonight, probably the best ever. She sang twinkle twinkle little star to him. She got so excited too when he opened his eyes a few times. She kept wanting to touch him.
Isaac's heart rate kept elevating. I asked the nanny about it and she said that his heart rate typically goes up when he is awake. But when he is resting, it is back to normal. However, when she went to feed him around 6 PM she pulled out a large air pocket out of his tummy. I think he might have had gas and that was giving him a tummy ache. Once the air pocket was out he rested peacefully again. I actually think he cried louder than Arianna did as a newborn. It will be so fun getting to know him when he is home!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Tuesday, September 20
Not too much new to report today. Isaac gained just a little bit today. They did start him on a steroid to work on getting his lungs stronger in order to get him off the C-PAP. They call the lung condition some kind of lung disease. I wish they wouldn't call it a disease as his problem is becaus he is simply young not because he caught something. Oh well. David held him today. Isaac got kind of fussy even when David was holding him. David said that Isaac even let out a scream at one point. If I remember correctly, he used to do this before they removed the C-PAP the last time. Maybe he is ready again. He is also back to not opening his eyes very often and I think it is because he has the C-PAP hat on. At least they aren't using the chin strap that makes him look as if he is wearing a football helmet. We are a football household but this is too early to fit him for his first helmet...
HMMMMM what else to write.... Taco II is still alive! I think that the excitement has died down a little bit. He might be forgotten, good or bad thing is that he is a Betta and I guess they only need to be fed every other day. Problem... did I feed him yesterday or was that today... I think David is keeping track.
We went to Dairy Queen after dinner tonight (my sugar fast is't going very well). On our way there we kept telling Arianna that she was getting a surprise. We realize she is calling surprises Surpresents. Again, I don't want to correct her because it is too cute!!
Have a great night.. hoping tomorrow is the start of the nasal cannula! A mom can hope!
HMMMMM what else to write.... Taco II is still alive! I think that the excitement has died down a little bit. He might be forgotten, good or bad thing is that he is a Betta and I guess they only need to be fed every other day. Problem... did I feed him yesterday or was that today... I think David is keeping track.
We went to Dairy Queen after dinner tonight (my sugar fast is't going very well). On our way there we kept telling Arianna that she was getting a surprise. We realize she is calling surprises Surpresents. Again, I don't want to correct her because it is too cute!!
Have a great night.. hoping tomorrow is the start of the nasal cannula! A mom can hope!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Monday, September 19
Isaac is still on the C-PAP and sleeping like a log. I guess it is true what the nannies are saying... it gives him a good rest from the nasal cannula which causes him to work harder since he has to breath more on his own... When I visited today he was on his tummy with both hands up by his head. He didn't even open his eyes once. He had his buns in the air... I guess the Iverson children are going to sleep alike.. Arianna still does the same thing. When I see her with her buns in the air and she is fast asleep, I want to go in and pinch them!
Isaac is now 3 lbs and 6 ounces. That is one full pound (and then some) more than his birth weight. That is AWESOME! The nanny said today that is great news since he is even on the diuretic which would cause him to lose a lot of water weight and he still gained. I think that I am secretly trying to gain for him. I am watching the scale go up instead of down. That is so wrong! I thought breastfeeding (pumping) would cause me to lose weight... One of the nannies said that some women just pump to lose weight, they don't even nurse... funny.
I only spent about 20 minutes with Isaac tonight. I told the nanny I feel bad because he hasn't been held in two days. She said that technically he should still be in the womb where I wouldn't get to hold him. Also, that he is resting so well that he is growing and it is alright to not hold him. I left thinking that when he gets home I don't think we will want to put him down! I hope this isn't going to cause him to be a baby who doesn't want to be held. Is there such a baby like that???? I wonder. The time of him coming home seems so far away. I do still feel as if I am living someone elses life and that this really isn't me. People ask me if it is hard. I tell them not really. I think it is hard to believe that this is my life. But I just do what I need to do day by day and know God's grace is sufficient for me. Even when I do not know what to pray for, He will pick up the slack and take over. He is upholding my family with His righteous right hand. He will not let us down!
Oh, I don't think I mentioned yesterday that I spoke to the Dr. that goes to our church. I asked her what we could specifically pray for. She said complete restoration is a major prayer. I thought, I should know that but have been meditating on what she said. Yes, restoration in all areas of his body and mind.
Off I go to join my family in sleepy time!! Have a great night.
Isaac is now 3 lbs and 6 ounces. That is one full pound (and then some) more than his birth weight. That is AWESOME! The nanny said today that is great news since he is even on the diuretic which would cause him to lose a lot of water weight and he still gained. I think that I am secretly trying to gain for him. I am watching the scale go up instead of down. That is so wrong! I thought breastfeeding (pumping) would cause me to lose weight... One of the nannies said that some women just pump to lose weight, they don't even nurse... funny.
I only spent about 20 minutes with Isaac tonight. I told the nanny I feel bad because he hasn't been held in two days. She said that technically he should still be in the womb where I wouldn't get to hold him. Also, that he is resting so well that he is growing and it is alright to not hold him. I left thinking that when he gets home I don't think we will want to put him down! I hope this isn't going to cause him to be a baby who doesn't want to be held. Is there such a baby like that???? I wonder. The time of him coming home seems so far away. I do still feel as if I am living someone elses life and that this really isn't me. People ask me if it is hard. I tell them not really. I think it is hard to believe that this is my life. But I just do what I need to do day by day and know God's grace is sufficient for me. Even when I do not know what to pray for, He will pick up the slack and take over. He is upholding my family with His righteous right hand. He will not let us down!
Oh, I don't think I mentioned yesterday that I spoke to the Dr. that goes to our church. I asked her what we could specifically pray for. She said complete restoration is a major prayer. I thought, I should know that but have been meditating on what she said. Yes, restoration in all areas of his body and mind.
Off I go to join my family in sleepy time!! Have a great night.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Sunday, September 18
We went to church today but had to sit in the overflow room. Arianna is still battling a cold. She had a runny nose so we couldn't send her to Kid's Town. She sat with us which wasn't much fun for any of us. She is getting very spicy these days. Don't know if she is feeling the change with Isaac and our visits to the hospital or if she is just testing the water. Sometimes I think "Is this really my sweet Arianna?" When she would whine I would whine back to her in the same voice she was talking. She would look at me funny. I would say that is what you sounds like. I think I will start that up again. It couldn't hurt for her to hear how she sounds.
David and I took turns going to see Isaac today. David watched the Bears lose the game while I went to see him. He looks good. He has good coloring and surprisingly had gained quite a bit of weight He is still holding onto the 3 + lbs. I am proud of him! He is on the C-PAP but without the chin strap underneath. So it isn't as cumbersome. When I was there his heartrate kept elevating over 200. The nanny came over and thought that maybe repositioning him would work. Sure enough, when she set him on his tummy with a body pillow under his chest and a pillow for his head he calmed right down. When I first saw a baby sleeping on their tummy in the NICU I was concerned. Then I was reminded that all of the monitors would alarm the nurses if anything was going on with their breathing. I asked the nanny what will happen when he comes home wanting to sleep on his tummy. She said that they will train them to sleep on their back once they are in a regular crib in the NICU.
When I asked the nanny how he was doing from last nights episodes (it was the same woman as yesterday), she said everything looked good, no infections and few desats and bradies. So they do believe he was just tired from breathing with the nasal cannula.
I keep falling asleep as I write this. Have a good night and happy Monday!
David and I took turns going to see Isaac today. David watched the Bears lose the game while I went to see him. He looks good. He has good coloring and surprisingly had gained quite a bit of weight He is still holding onto the 3 + lbs. I am proud of him! He is on the C-PAP but without the chin strap underneath. So it isn't as cumbersome. When I was there his heartrate kept elevating over 200. The nanny came over and thought that maybe repositioning him would work. Sure enough, when she set him on his tummy with a body pillow under his chest and a pillow for his head he calmed right down. When I first saw a baby sleeping on their tummy in the NICU I was concerned. Then I was reminded that all of the monitors would alarm the nurses if anything was going on with their breathing. I asked the nanny what will happen when he comes home wanting to sleep on his tummy. She said that they will train them to sleep on their back once they are in a regular crib in the NICU.
When I asked the nanny how he was doing from last nights episodes (it was the same woman as yesterday), she said everything looked good, no infections and few desats and bradies. So they do believe he was just tired from breathing with the nasal cannula.
I keep falling asleep as I write this. Have a good night and happy Monday!
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Saturday, September 17
We are back on the C-PAP.... sad. I received a call from the NICU tonight around 6:30. Isaac had more bradies and desats than they want this afternoon. So they did some more blood work to see if he has another infection and everything came back normal. The doctor thought maybe he was just tired from the nasal cannula so she put him back on the C-PAP as well as he is going to be on a few more rounds of the diuretic to remove some more fluid. He did lose a little bit of weight over the night. But I thought he had gained too much in one day any way so I am wondering if yesterday's weight gain wasn't actually accurate. She said to not be surprised if he loses more weight over the next few days due to the diuretic. Can i have some of that? I could use the weight loss.
I went in this morning and kangaroo held him. Wow, how nice, his head was right under my chin and I kept kissing his head. He slept on me for about an hour. He sure is snuggly. I kept falling asleep too.
Please pray for the doctors and nurses to have wisdom about what is going on and for Isaac to become stronger and stronger every day. I spoke in his ear, before they lowered the top of his isolette, and I reminded him that he is a strong boy and that he is going to overcome all of these challenges. I assured him that I loved him and that he couldn't do anything to change that.
David and I know our son is coming home one day and that he will live and not die... sometimes this rollercoaster ride isn't very fun. I gave up rollercoasters in my late 20s... they make my stomach queasy, kind of like how some of the phone calls I receive from the NICU make me feel.
I went in this morning and kangaroo held him. Wow, how nice, his head was right under my chin and I kept kissing his head. He slept on me for about an hour. He sure is snuggly. I kept falling asleep too.
Please pray for the doctors and nurses to have wisdom about what is going on and for Isaac to become stronger and stronger every day. I spoke in his ear, before they lowered the top of his isolette, and I reminded him that he is a strong boy and that he is going to overcome all of these challenges. I assured him that I loved him and that he couldn't do anything to change that.
David and I know our son is coming home one day and that he will live and not die... sometimes this rollercoaster ride isn't very fun. I gave up rollercoasters in my late 20s... they make my stomach queasy, kind of like how some of the phone calls I receive from the NICU make me feel.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Friday, September 16
Whew! The first week down! Exhausted. But I did it!
I did not go to see Isaac today... the first day of his life that he hasn't seen me or heard my voice or felt my touch. I am a little sad but honestly when David and I decided that I wouldn't go after work tonight I felt so relieved that I instantly felt tired. David has been cooking and having dinner ready for me when I get home from the hospital every night. He is such a huge support!
BUT!! I did call and the "nanny" said that he gained a lot of weight. He went from 3 lbs 1/2 ounce to 3 lbs 4 ounces... hmmmm what day was his breastmilk from and let me keep eating that, right! It was probably one of the days that I had some chocolate cake for my birthday and the fat content was high! I must eat more cake! David did go see him today and held him for over an hour. Tomorrow, it is my turn and I can't wait.
Oh, and we have Taco back. Well, Taco II really. This time Taco is in the form of a Betta fish. They said Bettas are stronger and maybe they will survive the Iverson household. I just hope the tank won't smell like the goldfish tank did, yuck. I am glad it is only a gallon tank.
Thank you again for reading! Have a tremendous weekend.
I did not go to see Isaac today... the first day of his life that he hasn't seen me or heard my voice or felt my touch. I am a little sad but honestly when David and I decided that I wouldn't go after work tonight I felt so relieved that I instantly felt tired. David has been cooking and having dinner ready for me when I get home from the hospital every night. He is such a huge support!
BUT!! I did call and the "nanny" said that he gained a lot of weight. He went from 3 lbs 1/2 ounce to 3 lbs 4 ounces... hmmmm what day was his breastmilk from and let me keep eating that, right! It was probably one of the days that I had some chocolate cake for my birthday and the fat content was high! I must eat more cake! David did go see him today and held him for over an hour. Tomorrow, it is my turn and I can't wait.
Oh, and we have Taco back. Well, Taco II really. This time Taco is in the form of a Betta fish. They said Bettas are stronger and maybe they will survive the Iverson household. I just hope the tank won't smell like the goldfish tank did, yuck. I am glad it is only a gallon tank.
Thank you again for reading! Have a tremendous weekend.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Thursday, September 15
It is so hard to believe tomorrow Isaac will be 5 weeks old. I came up with a new response to when people ask if he is home yet. I am going to say "he is currently living with his 24/7 nannies and the best part is insurance pays for part of his care!" Does that sound believable?
Anywho, Isaac is currently 3 lbs and 1/2 an ounce. So he is getting there. I think his cheeks are actually chubby. Oh and he is off the C-PAP again. He isn't even on high flow oxygen, he is on low flow oxygen. My little over achiever. I tell you he is something else. I think his thighs are even bigger. He was more active today then I have seen him since Monday. His eyes were opening again and they were opened at longer intervals too. I changed his diaper tonight and when I was doing so I couldn't get the clean one back on him. One bun kept creeping out. I had to get one of the "nannies" to help me.
I am glad it is Friday tomorrow, I am exhausted being back to work. This morning I thought I would sleep in for a little bit. Well, the rest of the morning was a bust. Ari kept crying "I don't like my pants." (okay mom, don't laugh). Literally, she was crying about it. I reasoned "but that outfit came as a set." anywho, she stayed in her pants and kept asking "I want gum for the road." My response..." we have to eat breakfast first". Then to top it all off my 2 mile/10 minute commute turned into 30 minutes. I know, I know most people have a really long commute. But when you are running late already it truly makes it for a more difficult morning.
Have a good Friday! I know I will....
Anywho, Isaac is currently 3 lbs and 1/2 an ounce. So he is getting there. I think his cheeks are actually chubby. Oh and he is off the C-PAP again. He isn't even on high flow oxygen, he is on low flow oxygen. My little over achiever. I tell you he is something else. I think his thighs are even bigger. He was more active today then I have seen him since Monday. His eyes were opening again and they were opened at longer intervals too. I changed his diaper tonight and when I was doing so I couldn't get the clean one back on him. One bun kept creeping out. I had to get one of the "nannies" to help me.
I am glad it is Friday tomorrow, I am exhausted being back to work. This morning I thought I would sleep in for a little bit. Well, the rest of the morning was a bust. Ari kept crying "I don't like my pants." (okay mom, don't laugh). Literally, she was crying about it. I reasoned "but that outfit came as a set." anywho, she stayed in her pants and kept asking "I want gum for the road." My response..." we have to eat breakfast first". Then to top it all off my 2 mile/10 minute commute turned into 30 minutes. I know, I know most people have a really long commute. But when you are running late already it truly makes it for a more difficult morning.
Have a good Friday! I know I will....
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Wednesday, September 14
We have a 3 lb butterball on our hands!!! He is just 3 pounds today! yippee. For some of you who might be thinking "How much does he have to weigh to go home." They told us he doesn't have to weigh a certain weight before going home. He needs to have a continuous weight gain, be able to hold his own body temperature and one more thing I don't remember at this time of night.
Isaac is also wearing clothes for the first time in his life. It was yesterday actually which was his first day. He was wearing one of those ugly hospital baby shirts... so needless to say I am washing his preemie clothes tonight and taking them tomorrow so my little guy will woo all the nurses! They do fight over who takes care of him... i don't mind as long as she (just because they are all women in this NICU) takes good care of him.
Overall he "looks" good. He is filling out and his face is getting chubbier. Today they tried to put an IV in him too many times for my taste. He has a blood mark under the skin on his other hand, prick marks on both feet and one on his leg. They ended up putting a pick line in right under his armpit (or so it looks like). A pick line is one that can stay in him for at least a month. Since he is still getting the antibiotics they needed to do this. Me being the typical mama thinks he is sleeping more than he had been. But I try to remember that he is doing a lot of things. The nurse said today wore him out from him crying due to being poked so many times. I did get to hold him to which I told him when he comes home he will not get poked and proded at home so hurry up and gain weight and get those lungs strong.
Oh, by the Taco did die yesterday morning. I got up and went to have Arianna feed him. I looked in the tank and Taco was on the bottom. Not knowing what to tell her at that point I had her feed him anyway. To which her quick mind said "He not moving... mommy make him move." Still not knowing what to tell her, I said, we have to go, I'll try to get him to move tonight. David removed Taco from his tank and cleaned it. David swears that I killed him because I didn't rinse the rocks before I filled the tank. Okay Mr. Fishman!!!Last I knew he had cats and dogs when he was younger...hee hee. Ari didn't notice even up until tonight that Taco was no longer. Then as we were talking to Grandpa on the phone he proceeds to say something about Taco not moving. Ari turns around, looks at the tank and says "Taco not in there, Taco dying?" That girl is quick.
One more Ari story for the night. We went out to eat before going to the hospital. I think she took a talking pill because she was non-stop talking. Anyway, she and I were talking and she said "you have something in your teeth." I smiled at her and she says, "oh yeah, there it is, I get it out?" I laughed so hard. I have to be on my toes around here these days. She also spelled the word pie on her own tonight... amazing.
Isaac is also wearing clothes for the first time in his life. It was yesterday actually which was his first day. He was wearing one of those ugly hospital baby shirts... so needless to say I am washing his preemie clothes tonight and taking them tomorrow so my little guy will woo all the nurses! They do fight over who takes care of him... i don't mind as long as she (just because they are all women in this NICU) takes good care of him.
Overall he "looks" good. He is filling out and his face is getting chubbier. Today they tried to put an IV in him too many times for my taste. He has a blood mark under the skin on his other hand, prick marks on both feet and one on his leg. They ended up putting a pick line in right under his armpit (or so it looks like). A pick line is one that can stay in him for at least a month. Since he is still getting the antibiotics they needed to do this. Me being the typical mama thinks he is sleeping more than he had been. But I try to remember that he is doing a lot of things. The nurse said today wore him out from him crying due to being poked so many times. I did get to hold him to which I told him when he comes home he will not get poked and proded at home so hurry up and gain weight and get those lungs strong.
Oh, by the Taco did die yesterday morning. I got up and went to have Arianna feed him. I looked in the tank and Taco was on the bottom. Not knowing what to tell her at that point I had her feed him anyway. To which her quick mind said "He not moving... mommy make him move." Still not knowing what to tell her, I said, we have to go, I'll try to get him to move tonight. David removed Taco from his tank and cleaned it. David swears that I killed him because I didn't rinse the rocks before I filled the tank. Okay Mr. Fishman!!!Last I knew he had cats and dogs when he was younger...hee hee. Ari didn't notice even up until tonight that Taco was no longer. Then as we were talking to Grandpa on the phone he proceeds to say something about Taco not moving. Ari turns around, looks at the tank and says "Taco not in there, Taco dying?" That girl is quick.
One more Ari story for the night. We went out to eat before going to the hospital. I think she took a talking pill because she was non-stop talking. Anyway, she and I were talking and she said "you have something in your teeth." I smiled at her and she says, "oh yeah, there it is, I get it out?" I laughed so hard. I have to be on my toes around here these days. She also spelled the word pie on her own tonight... amazing.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Papa Ivy here and today I got to hold my son for the first time in a few days. Isaac is now off the medication that helps get the fluid off of his lungs. He will still be on antibiotics for another week. He was completely calm and at peace when I got there today and remained that way until I left a while later. The spot on his arm and his left hand continues to improve and look better and better. You can barely tell they were there at all. Talinda found out that one of the doctors in the NICU goes to Life Changers. Talk about divine Providence!
Isaac had a weight gain of 15grams today which puts him just one ounce under 3lbs. He's catching up to daddy fast!
We love you all and appreciate your prayers and support!
Peace,
Papa Ivy
Isaac had a weight gain of 15grams today which puts him just one ounce under 3lbs. He's catching up to daddy fast!
We love you all and appreciate your prayers and support!
Peace,
Papa Ivy
Monday, September 12, 2011
Monday, September 12
I started back to work today...exhausted.. already and it is only Monday night. Hopefully I will at least lose some weight out of this deal...
Okay, so I saw Isaac tonight for a little while. We are still on hold to hold our son... sad but know it is the best for him. He is still on the C-PAP (yuck) and he lost 5 grams. However, they think it is from the diuretic that they are giving him again to get rid of the fluid on his lungs. So they aren't concerned about the weight loss. They will give him the diuretic for 2 more days. He also has a red and irritated mark on the inside of his elbow. They are treating it with an antibiotic because they aren't sure how he got it. It looks like an infected something or other... The back of his other hand has a blood line under his skin where they drew blood. Needless to say he doesn't "look" too good. He is still healthy though and I try not to go by what I see. I have a friend who has said that these Drs and nurses seem to be proactive rather than reactive with their care for him. Which I agree with him and know that they are giving Isaac the best care he could get anywhere. Plus the nurses put up with all of my questions and saying "that doesn't look right," "what is that?"....
Please pray for his eye exam tomorrow. As if he doesn't have enough going on, he will be having his eyes examined at 8:40 am tomorrow. From what the nurse says it isn't a very fun exam for all those involved. They have to hold him down in order to get the dilating solution in his eyes, hold his eyes open and examine each of them. The nurse said that it only takes 15 seconds per eye. But to me, if I were there watching, it would be 30 seconds too long as they hold down my son. Which you have read, he will not be in favor of that since he likes to move. So the nurse tonight said we most likely won't be able to hold him again tomorrow due to all of the handling and stress for him... sniff sniff...3 days in a row. They are looking for the blood vessels in the back of the eye to see if they are torturous... which basically means growing in a wrong pattern... not painful. One funny thing is that during dinner tonight we received a phone call. It was an automated appointment reminder for Isaac Iverson's eye exam. It asked if I wanted to confirm... I almost cancelled it but thought it best not to get involved.
Just for those who are wondering (as I am amazed by this) TACO LIVES!!! His tank already smells which I am not fond of but we have managed to keep a fish alive for 3 days. Way to go Iversons!
Okay, so I saw Isaac tonight for a little while. We are still on hold to hold our son... sad but know it is the best for him. He is still on the C-PAP (yuck) and he lost 5 grams. However, they think it is from the diuretic that they are giving him again to get rid of the fluid on his lungs. So they aren't concerned about the weight loss. They will give him the diuretic for 2 more days. He also has a red and irritated mark on the inside of his elbow. They are treating it with an antibiotic because they aren't sure how he got it. It looks like an infected something or other... The back of his other hand has a blood line under his skin where they drew blood. Needless to say he doesn't "look" too good. He is still healthy though and I try not to go by what I see. I have a friend who has said that these Drs and nurses seem to be proactive rather than reactive with their care for him. Which I agree with him and know that they are giving Isaac the best care he could get anywhere. Plus the nurses put up with all of my questions and saying "that doesn't look right," "what is that?"....
Please pray for his eye exam tomorrow. As if he doesn't have enough going on, he will be having his eyes examined at 8:40 am tomorrow. From what the nurse says it isn't a very fun exam for all those involved. They have to hold him down in order to get the dilating solution in his eyes, hold his eyes open and examine each of them. The nurse said that it only takes 15 seconds per eye. But to me, if I were there watching, it would be 30 seconds too long as they hold down my son. Which you have read, he will not be in favor of that since he likes to move. So the nurse tonight said we most likely won't be able to hold him again tomorrow due to all of the handling and stress for him... sniff sniff...3 days in a row. They are looking for the blood vessels in the back of the eye to see if they are torturous... which basically means growing in a wrong pattern... not painful. One funny thing is that during dinner tonight we received a phone call. It was an automated appointment reminder for Isaac Iverson's eye exam. It asked if I wanted to confirm... I almost cancelled it but thought it best not to get involved.
Just for those who are wondering (as I am amazed by this) TACO LIVES!!! His tank already smells which I am not fond of but we have managed to keep a fish alive for 3 days. Way to go Iversons!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Today was a day of remembering and honoring those who lost their lives and those who gave it willingly. I remember listening to the Bears game on the radio today during the opening events. The fans gathered at Soldier Field were informed that there would be a short video, then Taps would be played followed by a 1 minute pause to honor the fallen of 9/11, then the National Anthem would be sung. Well,...the video and Taps went off without a hitch, but somehow the minute of silence turned into a chant of USA, USA, USA. So much for following instructions I guess.
But I digress. We had our own version of terrorist attacks of our own today. Talinda called the NICU after church and was informed that Isaac's white blood cell count had gone up which is a sign of possible infection somewhere in his body. Also found out that he had some extra fluid on his lungs which has happened before and successfully treated.
I remember before Isaac was born that the NICU staff had come in to talk to us and said that there would be days where it would seem like tremendous progress was being made and then there would be days where we'd take a couple of steps back. We both said "Ok" and didn't think anything of it after that. Now that we're in the thick of it, it's a lot different.
He's back on the bubble cpap now(which none of us like, including Isaac), and they have drawn some blood to work up cultures to see what is going on with our child of promise. Talinda was there for a little while and said he didn't look too good. Ari and I had called T to see how things were going. After we got off the phone, AJ and I prayed for Isaac and Mommy.
We had just gotten out of service when T had called to check in. That's when she received the news that he wasn't having the best of days. Tomorrow the doctors will receive the results on the final culture to determine what is going on with Rocky. We're standing firm against pneumonia or even the thought of it, which is a concern right now.
From day one the devil has tried his best to take Isaac out of commission with sickness and disease and has failed EACH AND EVERY TIME! God has tremendous plans for our son and I can't wait to see what He has in store for him.
Be in agreement in prayer for:
1. Continued wisdom for the doctors and medical professionals concerning Isaac.
2. For a report of no pneumonia in Isaac's body.
3. For any infection that is there to be cursed from the roots.
4. That Isaac is healed by the stripes of Jesus and free from pain in his body.
God had a word for T and I today at church,...It may feel like you're praying every Psalm with King David and quoting every Proverb with Solomon, crying out to God when it feels like He's so far away, but,.....from this day forward, GOD WILL BLESS US!
We love you and appreciate each and every one of you! Peace,....David
But I digress. We had our own version of terrorist attacks of our own today. Talinda called the NICU after church and was informed that Isaac's white blood cell count had gone up which is a sign of possible infection somewhere in his body. Also found out that he had some extra fluid on his lungs which has happened before and successfully treated.
I remember before Isaac was born that the NICU staff had come in to talk to us and said that there would be days where it would seem like tremendous progress was being made and then there would be days where we'd take a couple of steps back. We both said "Ok" and didn't think anything of it after that. Now that we're in the thick of it, it's a lot different.
He's back on the bubble cpap now(which none of us like, including Isaac), and they have drawn some blood to work up cultures to see what is going on with our child of promise. Talinda was there for a little while and said he didn't look too good. Ari and I had called T to see how things were going. After we got off the phone, AJ and I prayed for Isaac and Mommy.
We had just gotten out of service when T had called to check in. That's when she received the news that he wasn't having the best of days. Tomorrow the doctors will receive the results on the final culture to determine what is going on with Rocky. We're standing firm against pneumonia or even the thought of it, which is a concern right now.
From day one the devil has tried his best to take Isaac out of commission with sickness and disease and has failed EACH AND EVERY TIME! God has tremendous plans for our son and I can't wait to see what He has in store for him.
Be in agreement in prayer for:
1. Continued wisdom for the doctors and medical professionals concerning Isaac.
2. For a report of no pneumonia in Isaac's body.
3. For any infection that is there to be cursed from the roots.
4. That Isaac is healed by the stripes of Jesus and free from pain in his body.
God had a word for T and I today at church,...It may feel like you're praying every Psalm with King David and quoting every Proverb with Solomon, crying out to God when it feels like He's so far away, but,.....from this day forward, GOD WILL BLESS US!
We love you and appreciate each and every one of you! Peace,....David
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Saturday, September 10
I received a call this morning that Isaac's red blood cell count was low. Therefore they had to start a second round of blood transfusions. The first one was on August 17th. The nurse (our favorite Alex), said that it is great that this is only his second. Isaac gained another 15 grams as well. So he is still gaining which is great news. Last night when David and I were there I thought his hand looked too white. I said something to David but not to one of the nurses. Then today when I was there, I could see a noticable difference in his skin color. He is definitely pinker and has a better color to him. He looks good and today he opened his eyes a lot when I was holding him. It is so fun to talk to him and see his little eyes open and just look around. He is getting stronger by the day.
Today we have come up with a name for the fish... sort of... Taco or Paco. I can't decide which it is as I think it changes to whatever suits Arianna's fancy at the time. We watched Grandma and Grandpa drive away today toward their house. Arianna sat on the front step and said "we wait here until they come back." It would be a long wait... they won't be coming back this week like they have been for the past 6 weeks. They have been such a blessing to my family. David and I wouldn't be where we are today without our parents... a huge thank you to GIGI, NENA and POPPY!!! We love you so much! You have kept us a family by driving, cooking, cleaning, watching Arianna and so on and so on and so on!! We believe God to bless you back for your sacrifice and love!
Today we have come up with a name for the fish... sort of... Taco or Paco. I can't decide which it is as I think it changes to whatever suits Arianna's fancy at the time. We watched Grandma and Grandpa drive away today toward their house. Arianna sat on the front step and said "we wait here until they come back." It would be a long wait... they won't be coming back this week like they have been for the past 6 weeks. They have been such a blessing to my family. David and I wouldn't be where we are today without our parents... a huge thank you to GIGI, NENA and POPPY!!! We love you so much! You have kept us a family by driving, cooking, cleaning, watching Arianna and so on and so on and so on!! We believe God to bless you back for your sacrifice and love!
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