One of Nia's favorite things to do is to play "piggies" with Josiah. It's pretty dang cute. She's actually a decent "babysitter." Now before you call social services, let me assure you that we do not leave our children home alone-- (although they clearly are "advanced" :) What I mean is that Nia kept cranky Josiah pacified for probably 25 minutes yesterday when Nick and I were cleaning up and washing dishes, etc. She's a pro at replugging him with the pacifier and even knows how to tap it just right so that he will take it when he's crying.
Yesterday J-man had his first "well baby" check... he was a whopping 9lbs, 5.5 oz... almost back up to his birth weight, but more importantly, 6 oz heavier than when he left the hospital 4 days prior... the doctor was very happy with that weight gain-- and we were too considering all the work that feeding has been.
Speaking of feeding-- I am willing to bet money that Josiah will be off the feeding tube on Friday. (Well, I am not REALLY willing to bet money... my husband is an elder after all...) He's been taking full feeds consistently for about a day and a half now. He is also nursing more often and for longer and just pretty much seems like a "typical" baby. In fact, last night all of us slept through a feeding. I had set the alarm for 11AM instead of 11PM and didn't wake up till 1AM... it was great-- we all got a FOUR HOUR stretch of sleep... my first since Josiah was born. It was a great mistake I hope to replicate soon.
One last thing-- we've heard from a lot of people who are reading the blog and praying for us. First of all, THANK YOU for your prayers-- they are really working and we can feel them. Secondly, might I impose upon you for two specific prayer requests--
1- Nico. We should get a firm "date" this week (probably) as to when he will be home... maybe as soon as one week from today??? That's so surreal... I am so excited. Please just pray for all the logistics with getting home home and ....
2- Continued progress with the transition of more than one kid. I still haven't been able to figure out how to get anywhere on time, and Nick has yet to complete a FULL day of work- though he's getting there. Obviously he's going to have to step back a little bit again when Nico gets home, so please just pray that we can quickly find a new "norm" for our family that works.
Thank for caring about us.
We love you,
Gwenn
PS- One last thing... I haven't forgotten to thank all of you for all you've done for us... I have an ever-growing list of notes to write... we've appreciated (and continue to appreciate) all that has been done/given on our behalf. It may be NEXT summer by the time all our thank you's are written, but know that we are thankful and do hope we can find a way to thank you all appropriately, though we know we can never repay you all for all you've done for us... xoxo
