Feeders and Growers

Tomorrow is our two week birthday and day No. 12 in the special needs nursery. At this point, the girls are referred to as "feeders and growers," basically preemies have to do three things: 1) regulate their own temperatures 2) gain weight and 3) eat all of their own feedings. The last step is the feeding, and thankfully, that's where we are. We are in the "feeders and growers" group, which is the last step before coming home.

Today, Caroline took her 8 a.m, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. feedings all by the bottle, which is the longest stretch she's had of feeding on her own. Brooke is also taking more of her bottle, but is yet to finish one by herself. When she doesn't finish, she ends up getting the rest through the feeding tube, which, to quote Jack, is "No fun." As opposed to last week, we are seeing progress and the nurses and doctors believe that we will have them both home in one or two weeks. This lesson in patience is tough. All of our good doctors believe that the girls are right on track for their age, unfortunately, it takes twins a bit longer than singletons to learn to eat.

Last Thursday, Aunt Emmy came to help out and she certainly has! Not everyone would give up their vacation to take care of their sister's family, but she has and we are forever indebted. Frankly, we don't know how we would manage without her, as the three of us were generally a mess altogether before her arrival. Jack, however, in the last 24 hours or so, seems to be doing better. Susu and Andrew came today and that always cheers him up.

In the above pictures, I am feeding Caroline and holding Brooke. We are incorporating some kangaroo care, basically putting a baby down your shirt....it encourages milk production and helps the babies prepare for PO readiness (ready to eat state). It's also just nice to hold them close like that, they seem to really like it. Jack and Andrew are doing a Christmas gift exchange (Andrew loved the Elmo legos and books) and Aunt Emmy holds the twins.

Thank you for all the messages and emails, I am very behind in responding simply because I am in a bit of struggle getting through the days.....but, hope to catch up once these girls come home! A very merry christmas to all.....