And so he sniffles again...

I've decided Leo's one of those babies that will always be congested and sniffly! The nurse showed me a really great way to clean out his nose using the nasal aspirator and it definitely trumps how I was attempting.  I did have a dream last night that it was his first day of school and he had snot running down his face and kleenex falling out of his pockets...ha.  We shall see.  

He is still gaining weight,  but not as fast as we would like.  The pediatrician would like to see an oz. a day and he's been doing just a little less than that.  We've increased his feedings so hopefully that helps.  We'll have another weight check on Thursday.  

As the BHS class of '02 motto put it best: Keep on keeping on, life's a garden dig it! (And yes that's from Joe Dirt...only in Bemidji!)

Leo's Getting Strong!

Leo's starting to get a lot stronger!  He also drank over 3 oz. in one bottle today!  That's more than he's ever done.  He's about 8 1/2 lbs.  Tomorrow Leo has an official weight check at the drs office.  It's fun to see him get bigger and more interactive!

Leo Update!

Leo's doing well.  He's been great at night just waking for feeding and a snuggle, but otherwise is doing a pretty good job sleeping.  He's up a lot more during the day which is fun.  He's starting to bat at objects and watch things going on around him.  He's also getting really good at holding his head up.  The only thing that causes me concern at this point is his fast breathing and the possibility of getting sick.  I cannot wait until he breaths slower and easier.  When that happens it will be a major milestone in his recovery from prematurity. 

Dave and I will be playing single parents over the next few days.  He and his family went to Bemidji for the 4th and I stayed back with Leo.  Then, on Friday, I will be going to Bemidji for a wedding and Dave will be back here.  It's only been 10 hours and I must admit we made a good team and I can't wait until we can parent together again!  

Growing Fast!

Leo's had a great week and a half at home!  He's a 1/2 an oz from being 8 lbs (7 lbs 15 1/2 oz)! He's becoming a better eater and his neck strength is improving each day.  Because of his reflux issues he likes to keep us up for a few hours each night so that he can be held upright.  Leo's home care nurse said we can raise his bed a little bit so it's at a 40 degree angle and it may help.  We are doing everything we can before putting him on any more meds.  Hopefully it's something he grows out of. Otherwise the nurse and his pediatrician said he looks great!  

We have next week off for appointments for him, but then have a doctor's appointment and an appointment with a HUGS teacher (they are certified ECFE teachers that go into your home and do one-on-one visits with at risk infants). Since Leo had a very low birth weight they will monitor his development monthly for the first three years.  The teacher will track his progress and give us activities to help Leo catch up to his peers.  

Leo's first doctors appointment! 

Leo's Doing Great!

Leo's doing really well!  As of Friday he was 7 lbs. 7 oz.  We hope he's over 8 lbs.  by the end of June!  The home nurse came on Friday.  Leo checked out good.  Lungs sound good and he weighed in great!  She was a little concerned about his respiratory rate as it was really fast (as always) so she called the ICC and they reassured her that its just the way he is.  None the less, she stayed until it was back down to normal range.  He will meet his pediatrician on Monday.  

Dave's been doing some work from home when he can to help out, but next week will be just me and Leo during the day.  I've really enjoyed having Dave home!  Not having the "Bottle Master" around will be interesting! 

So Fun Having Leo Home!

Leo's been such a good baby so far.  He struggles with his digestion a little (as always). So he spends a lot of time grunting and refluxing, but he seems to be dealing pretty well.  It's certainly nice to finally have him home.  Actually a lot more relaxing, and enjoyable,than traveling back and forth to the hospital.  We have a nurse coming over tomorrow to answer any questions and to check up on him and his weight. 

Leo's Home!

Leo's been home for 24 hours!  He was more awake last night than during the day!  That's okay - we had him do a little tummy time and strengthen his back and neck to pass the time.  He actually drank more than his minimum amount of milk yesterday!  It wasn't easy, but he did it.  This morning we tried out his stroller and went for a walk around the pond and Leo met the neighbors!  He is now quietly asleep in his crib. We shall see how long that lasts :).