Special Day with Gran

Today, Lily and Lola got to have some much needed holding time with their Gran (aka Don's mom, Barbara). Although there have been many visits, today was the first time for the girls to be held by Gran. They really loved the attention. (Above pictures are top: Gran and Lily, bottom: Gran and Lola)

Their Grandma (aka Mel's mom, Anne) was scheduled to appear today also for holding time. However, she became sick and had to postpone her time until she is well.

The girls, Don, and I are all very lucky to have such wonderfully supportive parents/grandparents. We couldn't have made it through the past few years without both sets of parents/grandparents.

Lily and Lola continue on their quest to break out of the NICU. Both girls continued with bottle feedings only today. They did pretty well, but both did have some issues with sleepiness and coordination today. From what we have been told, we should expect these things as the girls are still learning how to breathe/suck/swallow at the same time. We just plan to meet them where they are at each feeding and walk them through it as best as we can.

Weight gains were smaller last night, with Lily now 4 lbs. 5.4 oz. and Lola 4 lbs. 10.5 oz. Because the girls burn many calories in bottle feeding, they may actually even lose weight until all gets regulated. We hope they don't, but apparently that is somewhat expected.

We really want to thank all of our NICU nurses, Drs., PT/OT and ST*. Everyone does such a great job explaining progress and process to us. (*the girls do not formally see ST, but are fortunate to have one supporting/advising their mom and dad, thanks Jodi!)

We appreciate everyone's thoughts, prayers, and words of encouragement. It helps more than you know!

Love, Mel