Tuesday July 28th

Babies Situation:

We had another good day with the speech therapist. We are in the process of trying many different bottles for Trinity to determine which one is best for her. We already figured it out for Kinsley (she likes Dr. Brown). Today, Elizabeth was very gracious again in both her time and the resources at the hospital. She started with a nook nipple but quickly changed over to a Soothie (sounds good to me) and then finally back to her peach nipple. Overall Trinity did great taking the most she has in weeks - 37 cc's. Way to go! Everyone was very encouraged and excited about her slow progress. Kinsley on the other hand needed Mom's touch. She was very fussy for Crystal and even Dad in one of her feeds. Mom came in, calmed her down, and was able to give her the entire amount - 70 cc's. Soon they will be asking us for more but right now we would be content for them to take what is given to them. I guess they will just have to wait for dessert - more for Dad.

Parent's Thoughts:

Today was a difficult day for Mom. It was her turn to insert the NG tube into Trinity. She did a great job for her first time. It went right in and only needed a small adjustment as it was not inserted deep enough based on her measurements. Trinity seemed to be OK with it as well. Maybe that was the trick to ensure she ate more during her feed. We also received pump training as we will be bringing one home to feed Trinity until she can take her whole bottle. The pump is smaller than the one they use at the hospital and mobile. It should work well if we ever have to take her out. We spoke with Dr. Untalon about all of the things that were coming home with us - monitors, tubes, caffeine, and many other items. He has been so good to us and the girls. Thank you. We are so excited. We are getting close. We have been looking forward to this day for 4 months and 10 days - Thank you God.

Our Daily Encouragement:

The Lord himslef goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

Deuteronomy 31:8

Monday July 27th

Babies Situation:

The Girls had great feeding days today. Speech came to assess Trinity and she ended up taking 27 cc’s without a fight. She was like a different baby today. Maybe she’s improving-Please God!!!! Kinsley had a good day taking between 50-80 cc’s per feeding. Yeah!! The Girls are having their sleep study done tonight. If it goes well and if there are no set backs in the next few days, we will be rooming in Wednesday night and bringing our babies home on Thursday.

Parent's Thoughts:

Since we are getting close to bringing the Girls home, we have started to train on the different procedures that we will need to do at home. Today, Keith learned how to put the NG tube in Trinity’s nose. Luckily for the both of them, he did a great job and got it in on the first try. I think it was harder on me than either of them. My stomach was turning and I had to look away. My turn is tomorrow and I am terrified. Please pray for me. I can be so weak and somehow I continue to be challenged with things that seem to be too much for me to handle but I always make it though. I know where my strength comes from though-Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our Daily Encouragement:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.

Galatians 5:22

Sunday July 26th

Babies Situation:

The Girls weekly measurements are in!! Trinity still weighs 8 lbs 9 oz and is 19.75 inches long. Kinsley also weighs the same as yesterday at 8 lbs 7 oz and is 19.75 inches too. WOW!!! The dietitian gave us the recipe to the Girls’ formula. We are another step closer to bringing them home. We should be taught how to insert the NG tube in the next few days and we should be good to go.

Parent's Thoughts:

We are anxiously waiting to bring our sweet babies home. I try not to think about it or get too excited but it is so close. We still don’t have a date of when we will bring them home but we are hoping to have them home by the end of the week.

Our Daily Encouragement:

Two are better than one….If one falls down, his friend can help him up….If two lie down together, they will keep warm.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-11

Saturday July 25th

Babies Situation:

The Girls are getting so big! Trinity now weighs 8 lbs 9 oz and Kinsley is 8 lbs 7 oz. I never thought I’d be bringing home 2 8lb babies. They are both on 24 calorie formula which as you can tell, helps them gain weight pretty quickly. I think we found a trick to help Trinity eat. We are now starting her tube feed a few minutes before we give her a bottle. This way, she has some satisfaction in her belly so she isn’t as agitated when it comes to the bottle. Kinsley remains about the same on her feedings. She is still doing pretty well.

Parent's Thoughts:

We have a very special prayer request. Our friends Dave and Allie Alter were blessed with Jada Reese Alter earlier this week. Unfortunately she was born early at 24 weeks and lost her twin sister. We ask that you keep them in your prayers. We all know the ups and downs that come with having a 24 weeker but we also know that prayer works and that God has a plan. Here is their blog: http://alterfamily.wordpress.com

Our Daily Encouragement:

Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands.

1 John 5:1-2

Friday July 24th

Babies Situation:

The Girls had their hearing tests today and both passed. Yeah!!! We feel so blessed that they both have had such a wonderful path so far. The feedings have been a struggle but we would rather have this issue than any of the others that could have popped up. I was able to get Trinity to take 14 cc’s today. That’s not much but it is better than anyone else could do. Kinsley was a rock star for me today. She took 80 cc’s the first time I fed her and 75 cc’s the second. Once again, that was more than the nurses could get her to take. There must be something special about Mama’s touch!!

Parent's Thoughts:

The Girls were pretty sleepy today. The night nurse propped them up on bobby’s and I think they really enjoyed the new angle. Since both of them slept most of the day, I didn’t have to juggle which crying baby to pick up. I was able to hold and rock both of them to sleep after their feedings. It feels so good to be a Mom.

Our Daily Encouragement:

Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Psalm 23:6

Thursday July 23rd

Babies Situation:

The Girls are 43 weeks today. Trinity weighs 8 lbs 5 oz, weighing more than her sister who weighs 8 lbs 4 oz. Trinity had another poor day of bottle feeding. She took the most for me which was only 20 cc’s. Kinsley did well taking 45 cc’s or more each feeding. The tube in her nose was removed. They will now monitor her for the next few days to see if she will continue to gain weight as she eats whatever she’ll take per feeding. The GI doctor never made it in today. Hopefully tomorrow!!

Parent's Thoughts:

I got to hold both Girls at the same time multiple times today. I even figured out how to pick them both up at the same time with no help! This might come in handy a few times in the future. With them both having more awake time now, they are requiring more stimulation and a lot more holding. Two babies crying in your ear at the same time can make you feel very overwhelmed but getting to cuddle with two precious babies at the same time is truly a blessing!! Thank you Lord!

Our Daily Encouragement:

Do not withhold Your tender mercies from me, O Lord; Let Your loving kindness and Your truth continually preserve me.

Psalm 40:11

Wednesday July 22nd

Babies Situation:

Good news!! No more talk of the G tube surgery at this time. Our doctor met with the surgeon this morning and the surgeon doesn’t feel that Trinity is a candidate yet. 2 GI doctors from the Dell Children’s Hospital will come assess the Girls tomorrow and we will plan for follow-up appointments once we leave the NICU. Trinity will go home with the NG tube (the tube that runs through her nose to her belly). We will have to feed her what she doesn’t finish from her bottles through it. If Trinity doesn’t drastically improve in a month or two, I am sure it will be time to talk about the G tube again. Kinsley had a good bottle feeding day. Today, they fed her what she wanted and will weigh her tonight to see if she gains weight. Tomorrow, they are going to switch her over to half breast milk half formula to see if she will tolerate it. If so, they will be able to give her a higher calorie formula. With this new mixture, she won’t have to take as much volume and should still gain weight.

Parent's Thoughts:

Keith and I feel relieved that we don’t have to think about Trinity getting surgery anytime soon. We will have to learn how to put the NG tube through her nose to her belly but I know we can do it. We will do what it takes to avoid surgery. See, the prayers are working!!! Thank you God!

Our Daily Encouragement:

No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

1 John 4:12

Tuesday July 21st

Babies Situation:

Elizabeth, the speech therapist, is back!! She fed both Girls this morning. Results of her assessment of Trinity indicated that she still has a weak suck, especially on one side. Trinity's swallow on that same side is weaker as well. Long story short, she recommends that Trinity continues to get tube fed until she is able to take all her bottles. Trinity will either keep the tube in her nose or the doctors will put in a port into her belly (G-tube). The tube feedings could last 2 weeks, 2 months, or longer but eventually she will get it down. Kinsley did well for her today finishing her bottle. Elizabeth will work with her swallow reflex once a day while she remains in the NICU.

Parent's Thoughts:

Keith and I are hesitant on Trinity getting a G tube since it requires surgery but unfortunately it sounds like it is the best route. We will be talking to the doctors in the next few days to see what the pros and cons are and to ensure we know all of our options. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. We thank you for the great support and especially the prayers. Prayer works!!

Our Daily Encouragement:

Oh, what a wonderful God we have! How great are his wisdom and knowledge and riches! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his methods! For who among us can know the mind of the Lord? Who knows enough to be his counselor and guide?

Romans 11:33-34

Monday July 20th

Babies Situation:

The Girls had decent bottle feeds today. Both had a few good and bad ones. The speech therapist was out sick again today but is supposed to be back tomorrow. Hopefully, she will have time to assess them. Trinity cries, arches, and tongue thrusts through most of her feedings. From the looks of it, her reflux is not getting any better.

Parent's Thoughts:

Our friend Emily visited today and stayed throughout the afternoon. It was really nice to have her there to talk too and to help hold. The Girls got spoiled today and loved every minute of it!! Please continue to keep us in your prayers. Please pray that the Girls will start completing all their bottle feeds so that they can come home.

Our Daily Encouragement:

And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered.

Joel 2:32

Sunday July 19th

Babies Situation:

The weekly measurements are in!! Miss Trinity now weighs 7 lbs 15 oz and is 19.7 inches long. She has almost caught up with Kinsley who weighs 8 lbs 1 oz and is 19.9 inches long. Both Girls had some minor changes made to their bottle feeding. Trinity is now getting bottle fed every other feeding and is getting 72 cc’s per feed. She still doesn’t like her bottle. She averages around 25 cc’s per bottle feed. Kinsley is starting to have better more consistent bottle feeds. Her orders now state to attempt a bottle feed each feeding. Her minimum is also 72 cc’s. She finished a few bottles today which is an improvement! Good job Kinsley.

Parent's Thoughts:

The Girls need more stimulation now that they are considered to be at a corrected age of 2 ½ weeks old. Trinity is very picky about how she is held. She gets bored in certain positions and wants to see what is going on at all times. Kinsley just likes to be held and be close to you. She is a little cuddle bug. Both love sleeping on our chest. It gets harder and harder to leave them at the hospital each day but we know we will have them home when the time is right and they are ready.

Our Daily Encouragement:

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all the saints-the faith and love that spring from the hope that is stored up for you in heaven and that you have already heard about in the word of truth, the gospel that has come to you.

Colossians 1:3-6

Saturday July 18th

Babies Situation:

The Girls had MRI’s done late last night to determine if there was anything wrong with them and to help the doctors rule out any major issues on why the Girls aren’t eating well. Thankfully both had negative results. Thank you Lord!! Since both Girls did have bad feedings throughout the night, the doctor decided to switch them both back to the RS formula. He will try this for the next 3 days to see if they have any improvement.

Parent's Thoughts:

We are so thankful that the MRI's did not show any kind of brain damage. No one really thought that they had brain damage but it’s nice to have the results to eliminate it from the equation. Plus Trinity did have a brain bleed and both of them have had high blood pressure along the way. We have been so blessed during the Girls growth as they have had their challenges but have also been able to avoid many of the major complications 24 weekers face. It is frustrating that they do not eat but I would rather have this kind of issue than a more severe issue affecting one of their organs.

Our Daily Encouragement:

But Jesus looked at them and said, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”

Mark 10:27

Friday July 17th

Babies Situation:

Today Dr. Diven took at least 30 minutes out of his busy schedule to talk to me and review the girls data. The Girls feedings are going OK but I did come with another game plan for him to try. The data actually backed up some of what I was saying. In the next few days, if the Girls don’t drastically improve, he is willing to try my suggestions. For Kinsley, we might try her back on the RS formula (or a 1 to 1 breast milk/formula mixture) while keeping her on caffeine. For Trinity, we talked about doing the same with RS and caffeine. If there is no improvement, then he is just going to take Trinity off caffeine all together.

Parent's Thoughts:

It was really nice of Dr. Diven to take time with me today and discuss the Girls current situation. Not only did he take time with me but he listened to what I had to say. He is a wonderful doctor and whoever gets him as their primary is truly blessed. Thank you Dr. Diven!

Our Daily Encouragement:

But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children.

Psalm 103:17

Thursday July 16th

Babies Situation:

The Girls are 42 weeks gestation today. They both have good and bad feedings. The caffeine seems to be helping Kinsley but I am not so sure about Trinity. She really isn’t too interested in taking her bottles and at times, she seems uncomfortable. I’ll have to talk with the doctor about this tomorrow.

Parent's Thoughts:

We are still taking it day by day. I really thought we would be home by now but I guess it wasn’t in the plan. Sometimes don’t you wish you knew the plan?

Our Daily Encouragement:

Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

John 14:1-3

Wednesday July 15th

Babies Situation:

Kinsley is doing pretty good on her bottle feedings since she has been on caffeine. Her volume was increased to 75 cc’s today and she is finishing all but 5-15 cc’s per bottle feeding. This is looking very promising but the doctor says she still needs to regulate herself on feedings which basically means there is more room for improvement. We’ll get there!! Trinity was started on caffeine today as well. She was wide awake when we came to visit tonight and did pretty well with her bottle. She finished around 45 cc’s of her 65 cc minimum. Good job Girls!!

Parent's Thoughts:

We still do not know when the Girls will come home but I do know that from here on out, our motto is that they are coming home when we are actually walking out the door with them. Until then, we don’t know. They are staying awake for longer periods during the day and crying more. They like to be entertained. I guess it would be boring to lay there for most of the day starring at everything PINK!!! Soon enough Girls!! You’ll be home getting spoiled.

Our Daily Encouragement:

Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord God-my God-will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you, until you have finished all the work for the service of the house of the Lord.

1 Chronicles 28:20

Tuesday July 14th

Babies Situation:

Today was a good day. Both Girls acted more baby like today. Their little arms and legs were going as they looked around the room and cooed. Both of them had a lot of awake time. Kinsley actually had a really good day of taking her bottles. She actually took 59 cc’s twice which is the most she has ever taken. The caffeine might be working. She also did not pull away, arch, or cry during her feedings. Trinity, on the other hand, wasn’t so sure about the breast milk. She did OK during her feedings but did not take more than 30 cc’s. She will probably be started on the caffeine tomorrow. Trinity now weighs 7 lbs 11 oz and Kinsley is officially 8 lbs!!!

Parent's Thoughts:

I am trying not to get too excited about how well Kinsley did today. Crystal and I both noticed the difference in her. Crystal was definitely excited so I’ll let her be excited for the both of us. I don’t want to get my hopes up again. It also makes me somewhat sad that little Trinity is a little behind her sis. I prefer to take both Girls home at the same time. I can’t imagine leaving Trinity at the hospital alone. The thought of it breaks my heart.

Our Daily Encouragement:

O Lord God Almighty, who is like you? You are mighty, O Lord, and your faithfulness surrounds you…Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you.

Psalm 89:8,14

Monday July 13th

Babies Situation:

Since both Girls aren’t really improving on their feedings, their primary doctor decided to change it up on both of them. Trinity has been taken off the RS formula and is back to getting breast milk with Zantac to help with her reflux. Kinsley had her tests run this morning and they didn’t find reflux but they did find that she gets very close to aspirating when she swallows. They decided to change her back to a slow flow nipple and she is now getting the RS (Rice supplement) formula every 4 hours instead of breast milk every 3 hours. She will also start getting caffeine. Both Girls can go from the state of being wide awake to a state of being sleepy very quickly during a feed. The doctor hopes the caffeine will help give her brain the right signals to maintain a more stable state.

Parent's Thoughts:

Today was very interesting. I was almost positive that Kinsley had severe reflux by the way she acts during feedings. By her not having severe reflux, this makes her case even more mind boggling. I feel like the doctors are running out of options. We have a few more weeks of trial and error before we might have to consider the G-tube. Please continue to pray for us.

Our Daily Encouragement:

For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Hebrews 4:15-16

Sunday July 12th

Babies Situation:

The weekly measurements are in!! Trinity weighs 7 lbs 6 oz and is 19.3 inches long. Kinsley weighs 7 lbs 13 oz and is also 19.3 inches long. Can you believe it!! Well the Girls finally pooped today. Poor little things! They now go days without stooling and it is very painful for them. Trinity kept crying out today because her belly hurt.

Parent's Thoughts:

I look forward to talking with the Girls primary doctor tomorrow. If Kinsley ends up having reflux, I am going to suggest that he switch her over to an H2 blocker since the Prilosec doesn’t seem to be working.

Our Daily Encouragement:

Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy gentleness hath made me great.

2 Samuel 22:36

Saturday July 11th

Babies Situation:

The feeding schedule was changed once again for Kinsley. She is no longer being fed on demand every 3-4 hours. She is now back to being fed every 3 hours with a minimum intake of 65 cc’s. She’ll remain getting bottle fed twice in a row, then tube fed. Trinity’s didn’t change. She is getting fed every 3 hours with only 3 bottle feeds per day having to take a minimum of 64 cc’s. Trinity is now weighing 7 lbs 6 oz and Kinsley is weighing 7 lbs 10 oz.

Parent's Thoughts:

The weekend doctors have decided that Kinsley needs the original two tests that I wrote about a week ago. She will be getting a swallow test and upper GI test on Monday. Hopefully this answers some questions. Please keep us in your prayers!!

Our Daily Encouragement:

The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 18:2

More New Pictures

More Pictures

More New Pictures

New Pictures

Friday July 10th

Babies Situation:

It was a nice day with the Girls. I was there for most of the day feeding, holding, and changing diapers. Neither did very well on their bottle feeding but that is expected once in awhile. Hopefully, tomorrow will be better!!

Parent's Thoughts:

Our neighbors in the NICU are rooming in tonight. They will be taking their 31 weeker home tomorrow. They are a very nice couple so it will be sad to watch another one of our friends leave but we are very excited for them. I still dream of this day.

Our Daily Encouragement:

Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.

Psalm 23:6

Thursday July 9th

Babies Situation:

The Girls are 41 weeks today and still working on their feedings. Dr. Diven, the Girls’ primary doctor, sat with Elizabeth (their speech therapist), Crystal (their primary nurse), and myself to figure out what the next step should be for their feedings. Trinity is going to remain at 3 bottle feeds a day. She is still averaging around 45 cc’s per bottle feed. She does act somewhat premature so we all feel comfortable keeping her where she’s at. Kinsley is acting more mature so Dr. Diven and Elizabeth decided to have her feed every 3-4 hours on demand. They have asked me to be present for as many feedings as possible. Since our nurse usually has to care for 4 babies at a time, with these new orders, it will be hard for them to feed Kinsley whenever she acts hungry. We plan to spend most of our time at the NICU this weekend (more than normal). On Monday, Dr. Diven and Elizabeth will re-evaluate the situation.

Parent's Thoughts:

Time is precious and everyone is now doing what they can to get the Girls home as soon as possible. Dr. Diven has made time each day this week to see the Girls. Elizabeth continues to show me techniques that will improve Trinity and Kinsley’s feedings. Our primary nurses work extra hard when feeding the Girls trying to get them to take the maximum amount. Thank you to everyone!! I also want to thank all of you who read our blog and pray for us. Without all of you, our situation would have been even harder for us to bare. Just remember-God is good and prayer is powerful.

Our Daily Encouragement:

But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord wills, and I will know, not the word of those who are puffed up, but the power.

1 Corinthians 4:19

Wednesday July 8th

Babies Situation:

The Girls both gained weight today. Trinity is now 7 lbs 2 oz and Kinsley is 7 lbs 5 oz. Both Girls are back to growing like weeds!! Their feedings haven’t gone so well today. It is either one of those off days where they don’t do so well or their reflux is really bothering them. I hope it’s not their reflux. I don’t like forcing them to eat when it is painful for them.

Parent's Thoughts:

I really wish the Doctors could figure out why the Girls aren’t eating well. I know it’s not that simple and from here on out, it is somewhat trial and error but the game we are playing here is not fun. I have been praying throughout the day for strength and patience and for the babies reflux to go away. I know God has a plan and is in control.

Our Daily Encouragement:

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 139: 23-24

Tuesday July 7th

Babies Situation:

The big news of the day is that the Girls were both released from their weekly eye exams. They made it through without any ROP - Thank you God!!! They won’t have to be seen for another 3 months and that is not to check for ROP. Trinity gained weight and is now 7 lbs 1 oz. Kinsley also gained weight and is now 7 lbs 4 oz. The Girls primary doctor decided not to have an upper GI done on Kinsley. Instead, he has prescribed her Prilosec and in 3 days, we’ll see if her reflux symptoms improve. If not, he’ll try a rice cereal or the RS formula next.

Parent's Thoughts:

Unfortunately, I was there today to witness the Girls eye exams and it was not pleasant. I have never heard them cry so loud and afterwards, their little eyes were red and swollen. From the fight, they were totally pooped out afterwards. It was heart wrenching to sit there and listen to them but I had to remind myself that it was necessary and luckily quick. It is a huge relief (and big blessing) that neither of them had ROP.

Our Daily Encouragement:

Bless the Lord, O my soul. O Lord my God, you are very great. You are clothed with honor and majesty, wrapped in light as with a garment. You stretch out the heavens like a tent, you set the beams of your chambers on the waters, you make the clouds your chariot, you ride on the wings of the wind…You set the earth on its foundations, so that it shall never be shaken.

Psalm 104 1-3,5

Monday July 6th

Babies Situation:

The Girls weekly measurements are in and they are very close in size. Trinity is now officially 7 lbs and 19 inches long. Kinsley finally gained some weight and is 7 lbs 3 oz and 19 inches long. The Girls also finally pooped today. It has been 3 full days with no poops until today. I’m sure they feel much better. The speech therapist met with me during one of their feedings today. She agreed that Kinsley shows many signs of having severe reflux like her sis. She will be getting an upper GI tomorrow to see if that is actually the case. If it is, she will either get rice cereal or be switched over to the same RS formula her sister is on.

Parent's Thoughts:

Trinity is doing so much better on her feeds now. Don’t get me wrong, there is plenty of room for improvement but she has come a long way. Kinsley took a step back but hopefully we’ll get it figured out soon. Reflux has to be painful so it makes perfect sense why they wouldn’t want to finish their bottles. Who would? We are getting so close!!!

Our Daily Encouragement:

Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness.

Lamentations 3:22-23

Sunday July 5th

Babies Situation:

We are still working on feedings with the Girls. Trinity is averaging out at around 45 cc’s each feeding with is a huge improvement. It seems as if the new formula is working. Kinsley is doing just OK. It is almost like she is digressing with hers and now it is a pure fight to get her to take her minimum of 50 cc’s. We also found out that the doctor ordered to put Kinsley's feeding tube back in every 3rd feed which means they pull it out afterwards. We did not like the idea of that at all and asked the doctor on call today to allow for a permanent tube through her nose. She now has one again just like Trinity.

Parent's Thoughts:

Keith and I really struggled with Kinsley’s tube situation today. Unfortunately, we were there for one of her tube feedings and it was awful. Keith left the room but I got to experience her gagging as Crystal inserted the tube into her mouth and down her throat. She actually gagged for the next 5-10 minutes as we talked with the doctor on how we wanted the tube to remain in her nose. Thankfully, he agreed. It was very hard to sit there as she gagged on her tube and kept moving her tongue around it. It was gut wrenching.

Our Daily Encouragement:

Christ was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.

1 Peter 1:20-21

Saturday July 4th

Babies Situation:

Happy 4th of July!! The Girls wore their special 4th of July outfits today and got a lot of attention. Well, Kinsley was very close to coming home early next week but because her weight gain hasn’t been very good in the last week, she won’t be going home anytime soon. The doctor decided to have her tube fed every 3rd feeding and give her a little more time. The Girls must be bottle feeding 8 times a day and gaining weight to go home. Trinity had a good day with her bottle feeding - she took 40, 45, and 55 cc’s which is a record breaker for her. Kinsley remains at 7 lbs 1 oz while Trinity has caught up to her now weighing 6 lbs 15 oz.

Parent's Thoughts:

Keith and I enjoyed our day with the Girls. We both got to feed and hold them for a few hours. After our visit, we watched the Austin fireworks to the sound of the Austin Symphony. It was really nice. We are squeezing in as many dates as we can. We are disappointed that we won’t be bringing a baby home in the next few days but also know it will happen soon enough so we will enjoy our last few days/weeks of just the two of us.

Our Daily Encouragement:

Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Philippians 3:20-21

Friday July 3rd

Babies Situation:

The Girls due date has now come and gone. It feels like a milestone has been met. The Girls are doing well again today. Daddy fed Trinity this morning. She is now getting 3 bottles a day. She only took 25 cc’s for him though. The speech therapist suggested that we bring in a vibrating chair for her to sit in while she feeds. It might help keep the food down so we’ll try that tomorrow. I fed Kinsley and she did pretty good. No choking/heart rate drops today. She is taking her minimum each feeding. This is a great start to the holiday weekend.

Parent's Thoughts:

We are still working on getting the house ready for the Girls to come home. I am visiting Babies-r-us more often these days but I have to say that I feel pretty much prepared. We do need to get the car seats set-up in the car and the crib in our bedroom. Once that’s complete, it will only be small things that need to get done. Thank you Lord that we are to this point!!

Our Daily Encouragement:

The Lord knows the days of the upright, and their inheritance shall be forever.

Psalm 37:18

Thursday July 2nd

Babies Situation:

The Girls are officially 40 weeks gestation today - Yeah!! We had a great day!! We met with the speech therapist this afternoon. I fed Kinsley and she did pretty good taking 51 cc’s (her minimum). Keith fed Trinity with the help of Elizabeth and he did a really good job. She took 40 cc’s which is better than usual. We’ll let him try and feed her again tomorrow. He does better than me - ha! I was told that I need to be more assertive with feeding the girls. We also had an opportunity to meet with their primary Doctor and he plans on running a few tests on Kinsley to check for high blood pressure. If she continues to have hyper tension she might have to be regulated by medication for the next few months. We shall see soon enough.

Parent's Thoughts:

Our sweet primary nurses, Andrea and Crystal, both surprised us with gifts since the Girls are officially 40 weeks today (their original due date). We are so blessed to have them taking care of our babies. Thank you Andrea and Crystal!!!

Our Daily Encouragement:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Philippians 4:6

Wednesday July 1st

Babies Situation:

The Girls are 15 weeks today and their feedings are top priority. I started off trying to feed Trinity (one of her two bottles for the day) but I wasn’t successful from the start. Trinity did not like the taste of her new formula so Crystal had to take over. Crystal was able to get Trinity to take 40 cc’s but it was hard work. When I say hard work, I mean Crystal really had to push her. At 20 cc’s, Trinity did her usual shut down but Crystal pushed her hard to get over the hump. I think the key to success here will be for all the nurses to do the same. If they let Trinity give up at 20 cc’s, we’ll be visiting the NICU for a long time. Kinsley is still very sleepy during her feedings but she did decide to stay awake in between feedings - ha!

Parent's Thoughts:

The speech therapist will be by tomorrow to watch both Girls feed. Keith plans to take the day off so it will be nice for him to experience a feeding with her. Please continue to pray for the Girls through this time. Feeding isn’t coming easy to them. It’s very hard work for them and us as parents. Thank you for the continuous support we get. It is so helpful through the hard times.

Our Daily Encouragement:

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

James 1:12

Tuesday June 30th

Babies Situation:

The Girls will be 15 weeks tomorrow (40 weeks gestation on Thursday) and it seems like all of a sudden the NICU staff are trying to figure out how to get the Girls home - ASAP. I know they were thinking about it before but suddenly, the babies seem to be getting a lot more attention. Trinity’s test results showed that she has severe reflux which explains why she hasn’t finished a bottle. After about 20 cc’s, Trinity seems to shut down. She’ll go to sleep not wanting to take anymore because at that point, everything starts coming back up all the way to her throat. She has now been taken off breastmilk. They are trying a thicker formula on her to see if that helps. Problem now is that her body knows what happens at 20 cc’s so it is going to take a lot of work to get her over that. Kinsley’s feedings have changed to every 4 hours. So far, it seems to have helped a little bit but she has been very sleepy lately wanting to sleep through her entire feedings.

Parent's Thoughts:

I have to admit that I am a bit frustrated that these tests weren’t done on Trinity weeks ago. We have been trying to bottle feed her for at least 4 weeks and there really hasn’t been any improvement. I feel these tests should have been done after two weeks. Now we are at 40 weeks and it will be another few weeks of trial and error to see what works. Kinsley will get to go home once she can take her required amount by bottle each feed and gains weight. We are very close with her. Thank you God but please help Trinity too.

Our Daily Encouragement:

I will betroth you to Me forever; Yes, I will betroth you to Me In righteousness and justice, In loving kindness and mercy; I will betroth you to Me in faithfulness, And you shall know the Lord.

Hosea 2:19-20

Monday June 29th

Babies Situation:

Today was a really good day. I was able to sit with the speech therapist while she fed both Girls. Trinity did a little better but she still only took half her bottle. Elizabeth has decided to run two tests on her tomorrow morning to see if she can figure out the issue. I should have the results by noon. Kinsley took all 54 cc’s so Elizabeth has decided that she is ready to be bottle fed all 8 feedings - yeah (another step closer). This will most likely tire Kinsley out so the doctor will probably adjust how many feedings she gets per day (maybe only feed her every 4 hours).

Parent's Thoughts:

Both Girls had a lot of awake time today, especially Trinity. I had to rock her to sleep twice hoping she would rest up for her next bottle feeding with Elizabeth. She loves to look around the room to see what is going on. All the nurses stop by to say "Hi" to her and she loves every minute of it. Kinsley was wide awake for a period of time too. She is a little different from her sister in that she loves her sleep so all I have to do is hold her close and rock her and she’ll be out within a few minutes. She is a cuddle bug. Thank you Lord for these precious babies!! We are so blessed.

Our Daily Encouragement:

But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.

Joshua 24:15

Sunday June 28th

Babies Situation:

We have a 7 pounder!! Miss Kinsley is officially 7 lbs and 19.25 inches long. Trinity isn’t too far behind at 6 lbs 8 oz (this is what I weighed when I was born) and 19 inches long. I talked to the doctor today on their growth and Trinity is slightly below what they expect but has been consistent so they see no issues. Kinsley is above what they expect so they might consider taking out the small amount of formula they added to her milk to slow down her growth a bit.

Parent's Thoughts:

Daddy got to hold both Girls at the same time today. At first, they tolerated it well but after awhile, they started to fight for space. There was some crying and flailing arms going on. I couldn’t help but giggle as I watched. It made me think back to one of the ultrasounds. We watched as their little arms flew back and forth across the screen. Again, we giggled but I’m sure in a few years, we won’t be giggling anymore when this happens - ha!

Our Daily Encouragement:

The Lord God is my strength, And he will make my feed like hinds’ feet, And he will make me to walk upon mine high places.

Habakkuk 3:19

Saturday June 27th

Babies Situation:

The Girls both gained weight today. Trinity now weighs 6 lbs 6 oz and Kinsley weighs 6 lbs 14 oz. Trinity remains at 2 bottles/day and still hasn’t finished off a complete bottle yet. Since Kinsley is almost finishing her 3 bottles/day, the doctor has increased her bottle feedings to 4/day but decreased her volume from 63 cc’s to 54 cc’s. They think she might get full towards the end of her feedings so a decrease in volume should help.

Parent's Thoughts:

Keith and I had a nice visit with the Girls. It is so nice to be all together as a family. We each will hold one baby for awhile and then swap. It is so cute to see them snuggle with their Daddy!!

Our Daily Encouragement:

May the love and favor of the Lord Jesus Christ rest upon you.

1 Corinthians 16:23