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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Friday June 26th
Babies Situation:
I had a nice Friday with the Girls. I was able to feed both of them. Trinity only took 12 cc’s. She wasn’t very interested in the bottle but was definitely interested in what was going on around us. She loves to watch all the action. Kinsley took all but 13 cc’s so she did really well. Both Girls are still having high blood pressure so the pediatrician wrote an order to have their blood pressure taken 6 times a day. If they continue to have high blood pressure, they will soon go on medicine to regulate it.
Parent's Thoughts:
Crystal, our daytime primary, had the Girls today and treated them to a spa day. Both Girls have dry scalps so each got their scalps washed really well. I took some pictures to show how much they enjoyed it. They absolutely loved every minute of it. Watch out Daddy!! They are just like their Mamma!! I see many spa days in the future - ha! We will let you come too though!
Our Daily Encouragement:
We may boldly say; “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
Hebrews 13:6
I had a nice Friday with the Girls. I was able to feed both of them. Trinity only took 12 cc’s. She wasn’t very interested in the bottle but was definitely interested in what was going on around us. She loves to watch all the action. Kinsley took all but 13 cc’s so she did really well. Both Girls are still having high blood pressure so the pediatrician wrote an order to have their blood pressure taken 6 times a day. If they continue to have high blood pressure, they will soon go on medicine to regulate it.
Parent's Thoughts:
Crystal, our daytime primary, had the Girls today and treated them to a spa day. Both Girls have dry scalps so each got their scalps washed really well. I took some pictures to show how much they enjoyed it. They absolutely loved every minute of it. Watch out Daddy!! They are just like their Mamma!! I see many spa days in the future - ha! We will let you come too though!
Our Daily Encouragement:
We may boldly say; “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
Hebrews 13:6
Thursday June 25th
Babies Situation:
The Girls are 39 weeks today but are not ready to come home yet. We have a feeling they will be in there for at least another 3 weeks. Trinity took half her bottle today but still has a weak suck along with a tongue thrust that interferes with her bottle feeding. With time, this should improve. Kinsley took her entire bottle in 10 minutes today. She likes to show off once in a while - too bad she can’t do that all the time. Soon I’m sure though!!
Parent's Thoughts:
Our friend Candra came to the hospital today and held babies with me all afternoon. It was nice. No one got left out. Both Girls were full of gas though putting on quite the musical show. They definitely get attention that way. They don’t care who is around - Dr’s, therapists, nurses… and we even got a few turned heads today. We just pointed at the babies and laughed. It was a great day!
Our Daily Encouragement:
Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone.
Colossians 4:6
The Girls are 39 weeks today but are not ready to come home yet. We have a feeling they will be in there for at least another 3 weeks. Trinity took half her bottle today but still has a weak suck along with a tongue thrust that interferes with her bottle feeding. With time, this should improve. Kinsley took her entire bottle in 10 minutes today. She likes to show off once in a while - too bad she can’t do that all the time. Soon I’m sure though!!
Parent's Thoughts:
Our friend Candra came to the hospital today and held babies with me all afternoon. It was nice. No one got left out. Both Girls were full of gas though putting on quite the musical show. They definitely get attention that way. They don’t care who is around - Dr’s, therapists, nurses… and we even got a few turned heads today. We just pointed at the babies and laughed. It was a great day!
Our Daily Encouragement:
Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone.
Colossians 4:6
Wednesday June 24th
Babies Situation:
The Girls are 14 weeks old today and doing great. Trinity now weights 6 lbs 5 oz and Kinsley weights 6 lbs 12 oz. Trinity did have a heart rate drop during her nap today but it was a quick and she self recovered. Because she has only had one, there is no need to put her on caffeine. The doctors will monitor her and if she has more, they will then consider putting her back on the caffeine. There feedings remain the same.
Parent's Thoughts:
We are having dinner with the Davis’s tonight. It has been really nice getting to know them. We have a lot in common. The Davis's Mom (Gaynelle) and I shared the same due date (July 2nd) and we were both expecting identical twin girls. We also had the same OBGYN. Our doctor would tell each of us about the other but she couldn’t give out our names. Finally, after knowing about her for months, we were able to meet a few weeks ago. Gaynelle was able to hold out 10 more days than me. She will be bringing home one of her twins, Leighton, tomorrow - yeah. The other twin, Taylor, had a heart rate drop last night so she will have to remain in the NICU for another 5 days. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers!!
Our Daily Encouragement:
The Lord who created you…says,…I have called you by name; you are mine.
Isaiah 43:1
The Girls are 14 weeks old today and doing great. Trinity now weights 6 lbs 5 oz and Kinsley weights 6 lbs 12 oz. Trinity did have a heart rate drop during her nap today but it was a quick and she self recovered. Because she has only had one, there is no need to put her on caffeine. The doctors will monitor her and if she has more, they will then consider putting her back on the caffeine. There feedings remain the same.
Parent's Thoughts:
We are having dinner with the Davis’s tonight. It has been really nice getting to know them. We have a lot in common. The Davis's Mom (Gaynelle) and I shared the same due date (July 2nd) and we were both expecting identical twin girls. We also had the same OBGYN. Our doctor would tell each of us about the other but she couldn’t give out our names. Finally, after knowing about her for months, we were able to meet a few weeks ago. Gaynelle was able to hold out 10 more days than me. She will be bringing home one of her twins, Leighton, tomorrow - yeah. The other twin, Taylor, had a heart rate drop last night so she will have to remain in the NICU for another 5 days. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers!!
Our Daily Encouragement:
The Lord who created you…says,…I have called you by name; you are mine.
Isaiah 43:1
Tuesday June 23rd
Babies Situation:
The Girls had their eye exams today and everything looked good. He will be seeing them in another 2 weeks for their routine follow-up. Still no ROP and it looks like their blood vessels have grown to zone 3 (the last zone) where they should be at this point. The speech therapist also saw the Girls while I was there. She fed both of them to see if there were any changes. Trinity was too tired from her eye exam to bottle feed so her session was over quickly. Kinsley took around 30 cc’s but slept through it all which caused her to choke a few times resulting in heart rate drops. Elizabeth, the speech therapist, will come back in a few days to check their progress.
Parent's Thoughts:
I could tell the babies needed extra lovin’ today. Their little eyes always look red and irritated after they get their eye exams. They are also so worn out after the eye exam from all the excitement. Both Girls fell fast asleep on me and did not make a sound or move the entire time I rocked them. That’s when I know they are over tired. It’s hard to leave my baby Girls at the hospital each day. I just have to keep reminding myself to take it day by day and before I know it, they will be home with Keith and I.
Our Daily Encouragement:
You should behave instead like God’s very own children, adopted into his family-calling him “Father, dear Father”.
Romans 8:15
The Girls had their eye exams today and everything looked good. He will be seeing them in another 2 weeks for their routine follow-up. Still no ROP and it looks like their blood vessels have grown to zone 3 (the last zone) where they should be at this point. The speech therapist also saw the Girls while I was there. She fed both of them to see if there were any changes. Trinity was too tired from her eye exam to bottle feed so her session was over quickly. Kinsley took around 30 cc’s but slept through it all which caused her to choke a few times resulting in heart rate drops. Elizabeth, the speech therapist, will come back in a few days to check their progress.
Parent's Thoughts:
I could tell the babies needed extra lovin’ today. Their little eyes always look red and irritated after they get their eye exams. They are also so worn out after the eye exam from all the excitement. Both Girls fell fast asleep on me and did not make a sound or move the entire time I rocked them. That’s when I know they are over tired. It’s hard to leave my baby Girls at the hospital each day. I just have to keep reminding myself to take it day by day and before I know it, they will be home with Keith and I.
Our Daily Encouragement:
You should behave instead like God’s very own children, adopted into his family-calling him “Father, dear Father”.
Romans 8:15
Monday June 22nd
Babies Situation:
Both Girls are officially over 6 lbs today. Trinity now weighs 6 lbs 2 oz. The nurse verified that the increase in formula is to give Trinity extra calories to help her gain weight faster. Kinsley also gained weight today and weighs 6 lbs 7 oz. Both Girls were wide awake this morning when I got to the NICU. They were just looking around the room. They both also got to sit in the bouncy seat today. They seem to really enjoy it since it allows them to look around the room. They like to see all the action!!
Parent's Thoughts:
We had two special treats tonight. Janice, the Reid’s primary nurse, was able to get the girls tonight since our primary was off. Janice is a wonderful, kind hearted, nurse who like our primary nurses, take extra special care of the babies. We were thrilled to have her watching over them. Our second treat was to meet Ethan, a precious baby boy of the sales person who sold us our car. He is also a thriving 24 weeker. Please keep him in your prayers that his journey will continue to be positive. Thank you God!
Our Daily Encouragement:
Fight the good fight for what we believe. Hold tightly to the eternal life that God has given you, which you have confessed so well before many witnesses.
1 Timothy 6:12
Both Girls are officially over 6 lbs today. Trinity now weighs 6 lbs 2 oz. The nurse verified that the increase in formula is to give Trinity extra calories to help her gain weight faster. Kinsley also gained weight today and weighs 6 lbs 7 oz. Both Girls were wide awake this morning when I got to the NICU. They were just looking around the room. They both also got to sit in the bouncy seat today. They seem to really enjoy it since it allows them to look around the room. They like to see all the action!!
Parent's Thoughts:
We had two special treats tonight. Janice, the Reid’s primary nurse, was able to get the girls tonight since our primary was off. Janice is a wonderful, kind hearted, nurse who like our primary nurses, take extra special care of the babies. We were thrilled to have her watching over them. Our second treat was to meet Ethan, a precious baby boy of the sales person who sold us our car. He is also a thriving 24 weeker. Please keep him in your prayers that his journey will continue to be positive. Thank you God!
Our Daily Encouragement:
Fight the good fight for what we believe. Hold tightly to the eternal life that God has given you, which you have confessed so well before many witnesses.
1 Timothy 6:12
Sunday June 21st
Babies Situation:
The Girls got their weekly measurements today. Trinity does not want to break the 6 pound mark so she remains at 5 lbs 15 oz. She is 18.25 inches long. Kinsley didn’t gain from yesterday either and is 6 lbs 6 oz measuring 18.5 inches long. Both Girls are getting Neosure added to the milk to give them more calories. The nurse told us today that the doctors did increase the amount of neosure Trinity was getting. I assume the increase is to help her gain weight but I’ll have to ask tomorrow.
Parent's Thoughts:
I do want to say to all the Fathers out there- “Happy Father’s Day!!” We had a very enjoyable Father’s Day today. I had the Girls dressed in Red Sox onesies with matching socks when we came in for our visit today. Keith was so excited to see them in Red Sox gear. He had a huge smile on his face which just made my day.
Our Daily Encouragement:
The Lord is slow to anger and great in power….His way is in the whirlwind and the storm, and clouds are the dust of his feet.
Nahum 1:3
The Girls got their weekly measurements today. Trinity does not want to break the 6 pound mark so she remains at 5 lbs 15 oz. She is 18.25 inches long. Kinsley didn’t gain from yesterday either and is 6 lbs 6 oz measuring 18.5 inches long. Both Girls are getting Neosure added to the milk to give them more calories. The nurse told us today that the doctors did increase the amount of neosure Trinity was getting. I assume the increase is to help her gain weight but I’ll have to ask tomorrow.
Parent's Thoughts:
I do want to say to all the Fathers out there- “Happy Father’s Day!!” We had a very enjoyable Father’s Day today. I had the Girls dressed in Red Sox onesies with matching socks when we came in for our visit today. Keith was so excited to see them in Red Sox gear. He had a huge smile on his face which just made my day.
Our Daily Encouragement:
The Lord is slow to anger and great in power….His way is in the whirlwind and the storm, and clouds are the dust of his feet.
Nahum 1:3
Saturday June 20th
Babies Situation:
It has been 5 days now since the Girls have had a dose of caffeine and from what we know, they have not had any apnea. By now, all caffeine should be out of their system so time will tell if their brains are developed enough to remind them to breath. The feedings remain the same except that Kinsley is now getting 3 bottles a day while Trinity is still getting 2 bottles a day.
Parent's Thoughts:
It was nice hanging out with the babies today. We each held one as they slept in our arms. I have to say though that we don’t like the corner of the bay that we are in. It’s too small for our double crib and us. By the time you have the babies, us, and the nurse-it’s tight quarters and the wires constantly get crossed and tangled. One of these days, someone is going to get their feet caught in them and go flying across the room. I’ll have to work on the nurses this week to see if we can get moved.
Our Daily Encouragement:
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory.
Colossians 3:2-4
It has been 5 days now since the Girls have had a dose of caffeine and from what we know, they have not had any apnea. By now, all caffeine should be out of their system so time will tell if their brains are developed enough to remind them to breath. The feedings remain the same except that Kinsley is now getting 3 bottles a day while Trinity is still getting 2 bottles a day.
Parent's Thoughts:
It was nice hanging out with the babies today. We each held one as they slept in our arms. I have to say though that we don’t like the corner of the bay that we are in. It’s too small for our double crib and us. By the time you have the babies, us, and the nurse-it’s tight quarters and the wires constantly get crossed and tangled. One of these days, someone is going to get their feet caught in them and go flying across the room. I’ll have to work on the nurses this week to see if we can get moved.
Our Daily Encouragement:
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory.
Colossians 3:2-4
Friday June 19th
Babies Situation:
The Girls are still off caffeine and are doing great. Andrea did warn me that the caffeine will remain in their bodies for 5 days so not to be too disappointed if they have a few apnea spells after 5 days. If they do, it doesn’t mean that they will need to go back on caffeine. Their apnea could occur up until they are 40 weeks. Trinity gained weight and is now 5 lbs 13 oz. She got to sit in a bouncie seat for the first time. Kinsley also gained weight and is at 6 lbs 4 oz. She will get to sit in a bouncie seat after one of her night feedings. She also had a big accomplishment tonight. She took her entire bottle in 10 minutes!! Andrea called us around 11:15pm letting us know the good news. Yeah!
Parent's Thoughts:
We are still getting our house ready for the babies to come home. I have a feeling we will be preparing up until the day they come home. I try to do a little each day and so far, it’s working out well. I did talk to the NICU Chief of Staff today for about 20 minutes. He said the Girls aren’t ready to come home yet since they aren’t bottle feeding well but once they get it, it will be a short notice for us so be prepared. He let me know that the bottle feeding will continue to be a struggle at home. Preemies start off not eating well and continue to struggle for a few months. It sounds like it will remain a challenge for us but we will take it on with everything we got.
Our Daily Encouragement:
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
Romans 15:4
The Girls are still off caffeine and are doing great. Andrea did warn me that the caffeine will remain in their bodies for 5 days so not to be too disappointed if they have a few apnea spells after 5 days. If they do, it doesn’t mean that they will need to go back on caffeine. Their apnea could occur up until they are 40 weeks. Trinity gained weight and is now 5 lbs 13 oz. She got to sit in a bouncie seat for the first time. Kinsley also gained weight and is at 6 lbs 4 oz. She will get to sit in a bouncie seat after one of her night feedings. She also had a big accomplishment tonight. She took her entire bottle in 10 minutes!! Andrea called us around 11:15pm letting us know the good news. Yeah!
Parent's Thoughts:
We are still getting our house ready for the babies to come home. I have a feeling we will be preparing up until the day they come home. I try to do a little each day and so far, it’s working out well. I did talk to the NICU Chief of Staff today for about 20 minutes. He said the Girls aren’t ready to come home yet since they aren’t bottle feeding well but once they get it, it will be a short notice for us so be prepared. He let me know that the bottle feeding will continue to be a struggle at home. Preemies start off not eating well and continue to struggle for a few months. It sounds like it will remain a challenge for us but we will take it on with everything we got.
Our Daily Encouragement:
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
Romans 15:4
Thursday June 18th
Babies Situation:
The Girls continue to gain weight. Trinity is now at 5 lbs 12 oz and Kinsley is at 6 lbs 2 oz. It is amazing how fast they are growing now. No other changes today. They are still monitoring both of the Girl's blood pressure. Both remain somewhat high which might mean that they will need to go on medication before coming home. We shall see.
Parent's Thoughts:
Andrea, our primary night nurse, said that both Girls were very alert during their assessment tonight - should I say alert and calm - ha. They usually don’t like their temperature taken or their diaper changed but tonight they were OK with it. She even took them around the bay to say Hi to everyone and all the other babies. We feel very blessed to have Andrea and Crystal as our primary nurses. They take such good care of the Girls and go above and beyond to make sure they are comfortable at all times. Thank you Andrea and Crystal!!
The Girls continue to gain weight. Trinity is now at 5 lbs 12 oz and Kinsley is at 6 lbs 2 oz. It is amazing how fast they are growing now. No other changes today. They are still monitoring both of the Girl's blood pressure. Both remain somewhat high which might mean that they will need to go on medication before coming home. We shall see.
Parent's Thoughts:
Andrea, our primary night nurse, said that both Girls were very alert during their assessment tonight - should I say alert and calm - ha. They usually don’t like their temperature taken or their diaper changed but tonight they were OK with it. She even took them around the bay to say Hi to everyone and all the other babies. We feel very blessed to have Andrea and Crystal as our primary nurses. They take such good care of the Girls and go above and beyond to make sure they are comfortable at all times. Thank you Andrea and Crystal!!
Our Daily Encouragement:
Whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.
Ruth 1:16
Wednesday June 17th
Babies Situation:
The girls had some visitors tonight, our friends, Shannon and Jeff. They are also still doing well off the caffeine. Yeah!!! They have had only a couple of apneas in the past 7 days. There is still no change on the bottle feeding. We are just waiting for that light bulb to turn on and for them to “get it”. We do have a 6 pound baby though - yeah. Trinity isn’t far behind at 5 lbs 10 oz but Kinsley is a whopping 6 lbs 1 oz. WOW!!!
Parent's Thoughts:
The Girls are doing so well. We are proud of them. We are in the home stretch and let’s just say that we can definitely feel it. I was able to get a bunch of baby necessities today in preparation for their home coming. It’s so exciting.
Our Daily Encouragement:
For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. Continue your love to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart.
Psalm 36:9-10
The girls had some visitors tonight, our friends, Shannon and Jeff. They are also still doing well off the caffeine. Yeah!!! They have had only a couple of apneas in the past 7 days. There is still no change on the bottle feeding. We are just waiting for that light bulb to turn on and for them to “get it”. We do have a 6 pound baby though - yeah. Trinity isn’t far behind at 5 lbs 10 oz but Kinsley is a whopping 6 lbs 1 oz. WOW!!!
Parent's Thoughts:
The Girls are doing so well. We are proud of them. We are in the home stretch and let’s just say that we can definitely feel it. I was able to get a bunch of baby necessities today in preparation for their home coming. It’s so exciting.
Our Daily Encouragement:
For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. Continue your love to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart.
Psalm 36:9-10
Tuesday June 16th
Babies Situation:
The Girls had a big change today!! Since they haven’t had any apnea since the 10th, they were both taken off caffeine. They will remain off caffeine unless they have an apneic spell. Thank you God! Other than that, no change on the bottle feeding or weight gain today.
Parent's Thoughts:
We are so excited that the Girls were taken off their caffeine today. We are going to be careful though not to get too excited knowing that they still have a pretty good chance of having more apnea. They are still under 40 weeks gestation, although this is a step closer to them coming home.
Our Daily Encouragement:
I love the Lord because he hears my prayers and answers them. Because he bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I breathe!
Psalm 116:1-2
The Girls had a big change today!! Since they haven’t had any apnea since the 10th, they were both taken off caffeine. They will remain off caffeine unless they have an apneic spell. Thank you God! Other than that, no change on the bottle feeding or weight gain today.
Parent's Thoughts:
We are so excited that the Girls were taken off their caffeine today. We are going to be careful though not to get too excited knowing that they still have a pretty good chance of having more apnea. They are still under 40 weeks gestation, although this is a step closer to them coming home.
Our Daily Encouragement:
I love the Lord because he hears my prayers and answers them. Because he bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I breathe!
Psalm 116:1-2
Monday June 15th
Babies Situation:
The Girls were seen by both their speech and occupational therapists today. Their feeding are going a slight bit better but there is plenty of room for improvement. There muscle tone is also looking good but the therapist did ask for Kinsley to be put on her right side when resting. Her right foot still turns out which is due to her knee and hip turning out. If she lies on her right side, it will align her hip and knee which in turn aligns her foot/ankle. Both Girls also had labs done this morning and everything looks OK. Trinity did have high blood pressure this morning so the doctor asked for her blood pressure to be taken twice a day to see if there is an issue there. Both Girls gained more weight today. Trinity is 5 lbs 8 oz while Kinsley is 5 lbs 15 oz. Wow!!
Parent's Thoughts:
Keith got to spend the evening with the Girls tonight as I rested and got caught up on some stuff around the house. He was able to hold both of them at the same time (good practice for when they get home). We joke about him getting to watch a lot of sports, if he holds the babies during it. He says he likes that idea. He also got to feed Kinsley. She took 41 cc’s for him which is awesome. I only got her to take 12 cc’s for me today. She had her lips pierced shut and there was no way she was going to let me put a bottle in her mouth. It was cute (but frustrating). I had to repeat the word “patience” in my head and convince myself that this was just spending quality time together, not trying to get her to feed - ha.
Our Daily Encouragement:
May the god of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope.
Romans 15:13
The Girls were seen by both their speech and occupational therapists today. Their feeding are going a slight bit better but there is plenty of room for improvement. There muscle tone is also looking good but the therapist did ask for Kinsley to be put on her right side when resting. Her right foot still turns out which is due to her knee and hip turning out. If she lies on her right side, it will align her hip and knee which in turn aligns her foot/ankle. Both Girls also had labs done this morning and everything looks OK. Trinity did have high blood pressure this morning so the doctor asked for her blood pressure to be taken twice a day to see if there is an issue there. Both Girls gained more weight today. Trinity is 5 lbs 8 oz while Kinsley is 5 lbs 15 oz. Wow!!
Parent's Thoughts:
Keith got to spend the evening with the Girls tonight as I rested and got caught up on some stuff around the house. He was able to hold both of them at the same time (good practice for when they get home). We joke about him getting to watch a lot of sports, if he holds the babies during it. He says he likes that idea. He also got to feed Kinsley. She took 41 cc’s for him which is awesome. I only got her to take 12 cc’s for me today. She had her lips pierced shut and there was no way she was going to let me put a bottle in her mouth. It was cute (but frustrating). I had to repeat the word “patience” in my head and convince myself that this was just spending quality time together, not trying to get her to feed - ha.
Our Daily Encouragement:
May the god of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope.
Romans 15:13
Sunday June 14th
Babies Situation:
The Girls had their routine measurements and weight taken today. Trinity is 18 inches long and weighs 5 lbs 8 oz. Kinsley is 17.75 inches long and weighs 5 lbs 12 oz. It is amazing how fast they are growing. I bottle fed both of them today. Trinity did a little better taking 27 cc’s. Kinsley did pretty good herself taking 34 cc’s. The doctor thinks we’ll see a big improvement on their feedings by the end of the week. I hope he’s right!!
Parent's Thoughts:
Keith and I had a great Sunday. The sermon at church was amazing and then we got to come hold our precious baby girls. We both got to cuddle up with them while they slept in our arms. It is nice having two so we each get one and no one gets left out. We are so blessed.
Our Daily Encouragement:
As we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we are like Christ here in this world.
1 John 4:17
The Girls had their routine measurements and weight taken today. Trinity is 18 inches long and weighs 5 lbs 8 oz. Kinsley is 17.75 inches long and weighs 5 lbs 12 oz. It is amazing how fast they are growing. I bottle fed both of them today. Trinity did a little better taking 27 cc’s. Kinsley did pretty good herself taking 34 cc’s. The doctor thinks we’ll see a big improvement on their feedings by the end of the week. I hope he’s right!!
Parent's Thoughts:
Keith and I had a great Sunday. The sermon at church was amazing and then we got to come hold our precious baby girls. We both got to cuddle up with them while they slept in our arms. It is nice having two so we each get one and no one gets left out. We are so blessed.
Our Daily Encouragement:
As we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we are like Christ here in this world.
1 John 4:17
Saturday June 13th
Babies Situation:
The Girls continue to gain weight. Trinity is now at 5 lbs 6 oz and Kinsley is up to 5 lbs 10 oz. Trinity is still getting bottle fed twice a day while the doctor did decide to reduce Kinsley’s bottle feedings from 4 times to 3 times a day. We will see if that makes a difference. Please continue to pray that they both will catch on to bottle feeding very quickly and that their apnea will go away.
Parent's Thoughts:
We started thinking about pediatricians this week and we have it narrowed down to two. After talking with the babies primary doctor, we think we know who we are going to go with but I still might interview both of them. He highly recommended one of them which makes me feel good. We are so ready to bring them home!!
Our Daily Encouragement:
So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.
1 Corinthians 3:7-9
The Girls continue to gain weight. Trinity is now at 5 lbs 6 oz and Kinsley is up to 5 lbs 10 oz. Trinity is still getting bottle fed twice a day while the doctor did decide to reduce Kinsley’s bottle feedings from 4 times to 3 times a day. We will see if that makes a difference. Please continue to pray that they both will catch on to bottle feeding very quickly and that their apnea will go away.
Parent's Thoughts:
We started thinking about pediatricians this week and we have it narrowed down to two. After talking with the babies primary doctor, we think we know who we are going to go with but I still might interview both of them. He highly recommended one of them which makes me feel good. We are so ready to bring them home!!
Our Daily Encouragement:
So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.
1 Corinthians 3:7-9
Friday June 12th
Babies Situation:
It was a good Friday for the Girls. No big changes. They got to eat and sleep all day long. I was able to feed Trinity and she took about half her bottle as usual before falling asleep. Crystal fed Kinsley and said that she tired out half way through hers as well. With our initial feedings with Kinsley, she would finish the entire bottle within 15 minutes but she was only getting up to 2 bottles a day, so Crystal is thinking 4 bottles per day is too much for her and will suggest to our doctor that they decrease her to 3 bottles per day.
Parent's Thoughts:
I really enjoy holding the babies on my chest while I rock them. There is nothing better and the world seems to stop all around me. I forget about any issues I might have as I sit there with my baby Girls. Thank you God for this wonderful experience.
Our Daily Encouragement:
Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:15
It was a good Friday for the Girls. No big changes. They got to eat and sleep all day long. I was able to feed Trinity and she took about half her bottle as usual before falling asleep. Crystal fed Kinsley and said that she tired out half way through hers as well. With our initial feedings with Kinsley, she would finish the entire bottle within 15 minutes but she was only getting up to 2 bottles a day, so Crystal is thinking 4 bottles per day is too much for her and will suggest to our doctor that they decrease her to 3 bottles per day.
Parent's Thoughts:
I really enjoy holding the babies on my chest while I rock them. There is nothing better and the world seems to stop all around me. I forget about any issues I might have as I sit there with my baby Girls. Thank you God for this wonderful experience.
Our Daily Encouragement:
Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:15
Thursday June 11th
Babies Situation:
The girls had our close friends and neighbors, Sheramee and John, come to visit them tonight.
The Girls are 37 weeks gestation today. I can’t believe they are 3 weeks away from being full term. The doctor did tell me that they are still 2 weeks behind developmentally but could catch up in the next few weeks. Both Girls experienced reflux again this morning but Elizabeth, the speech therapist, was right there to help them through it so no bad spells today. No changes on their feedings will be made for the next week to see if they learn to manage the reflux better. If they don’t, rice cereal will be added to the milk to see if it helps. The Girls are also still on caffeine. At the end of next week, the doctors will review their apnea activity to see if they are ready to be taken off the caffeine.
Parent's Thoughts:
We are getting closer to being able to bring our babies home. We need two things to happen. We need the Girls to bottle feed 8 times a day while gaining weight and we need them to have 0 apnea. The nurses told me today that it is possible for the babies to mature a lot in the next 3 weeks and that is what we are going to pray for. We are in the home stretch. Thank you Lord.
Our Daily Encouragement:
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me…The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 51:10,17
The girls had our close friends and neighbors, Sheramee and John, come to visit them tonight.
The Girls are 37 weeks gestation today. I can’t believe they are 3 weeks away from being full term. The doctor did tell me that they are still 2 weeks behind developmentally but could catch up in the next few weeks. Both Girls experienced reflux again this morning but Elizabeth, the speech therapist, was right there to help them through it so no bad spells today. No changes on their feedings will be made for the next week to see if they learn to manage the reflux better. If they don’t, rice cereal will be added to the milk to see if it helps. The Girls are also still on caffeine. At the end of next week, the doctors will review their apnea activity to see if they are ready to be taken off the caffeine.
Parent's Thoughts:
We are getting closer to being able to bring our babies home. We need two things to happen. We need the Girls to bottle feed 8 times a day while gaining weight and we need them to have 0 apnea. The nurses told me today that it is possible for the babies to mature a lot in the next 3 weeks and that is what we are going to pray for. We are in the home stretch. Thank you Lord.
Our Daily Encouragement:
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me…The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Psalm 51:10,17
Wednesday June 10th
Babies Situation:
The Girls are 12 weeks old today and growing. Trinity is 5 lbs 5 oz and Kinsley is 5 lbs 9 oz. Big Girls, huh!! The bottle feeding is still a work in progress. Trinity is now getting 2 bottles a day. She still has a weak suck and still struggles with reflux. Kinsley is getting bottle fed every other feeding so she is up to 4 per day. She showed her first signs of reflux today. During one of her feedings, she choked and then held her breath for about 30 seconds turning grey. Talk about scary.
Parent's Thoughts:
Kinsley’s spell tonight made me realize that the Girls are not out of the woods. I was feeding her when she made a small choking sound. I took the bottle out of her mouth and sat her up to pat her back. The monitor started to ding letting me know she was not breathing and she started to turn grey. Luckily, Andrea (primary nurse) was right there and remained calm. Me patting her on her back was not working so Andrea suctioned out her mouth but Kinsley still didn’t respond. Once she gave Kinsley oxygen, she started to breath again and her color came back. I hope I won’t have to experience anymore spells like that. Feeding them is already intimidating and this didn’t help.
Our Daily Encouragement:
I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.
Isaiah 42:16
The Girls are 12 weeks old today and growing. Trinity is 5 lbs 5 oz and Kinsley is 5 lbs 9 oz. Big Girls, huh!! The bottle feeding is still a work in progress. Trinity is now getting 2 bottles a day. She still has a weak suck and still struggles with reflux. Kinsley is getting bottle fed every other feeding so she is up to 4 per day. She showed her first signs of reflux today. During one of her feedings, she choked and then held her breath for about 30 seconds turning grey. Talk about scary.
Parent's Thoughts:
Kinsley’s spell tonight made me realize that the Girls are not out of the woods. I was feeding her when she made a small choking sound. I took the bottle out of her mouth and sat her up to pat her back. The monitor started to ding letting me know she was not breathing and she started to turn grey. Luckily, Andrea (primary nurse) was right there and remained calm. Me patting her on her back was not working so Andrea suctioned out her mouth but Kinsley still didn’t respond. Once she gave Kinsley oxygen, she started to breath again and her color came back. I hope I won’t have to experience anymore spells like that. Feeding them is already intimidating and this didn’t help.
Our Daily Encouragement:
I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.
Isaiah 42:16
Tuesday June 9th
Babies Situation:
Another good day for the Girls. They both had eye exams this morning and still no ROP so the doctor won’t need to see them weekly anymore. Their next eye exam will be in 2 weeks. Yeah!! Both gained weight today. Trinity is at 5 lbs 3 oz and Kinsley is at 5 lbs 7 oz. They are doing great on weight gain. The speech therapist met with me today to assess both Girls as I bottle fed. Since they are doing pretty good, she increased their bottle feedings from once to twice a day. Keith was able to help me bottle feed tonight. Kinsley was the lucky girl and both did great!
Parent's Thoughts:
I was much more relaxed today during both bottle feeds. It’s really nice to have the speech therapist help but since the Girls are doing so well, she has reduced her visits to 3 times a week instead of daily. It’s great to see the daily improvements with the Girls. Practice makes perfect!!
Our Daily Encouragement:
The ransomed of the Lord will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah 51:11
Another good day for the Girls. They both had eye exams this morning and still no ROP so the doctor won’t need to see them weekly anymore. Their next eye exam will be in 2 weeks. Yeah!! Both gained weight today. Trinity is at 5 lbs 3 oz and Kinsley is at 5 lbs 7 oz. They are doing great on weight gain. The speech therapist met with me today to assess both Girls as I bottle fed. Since they are doing pretty good, she increased their bottle feedings from once to twice a day. Keith was able to help me bottle feed tonight. Kinsley was the lucky girl and both did great!
Parent's Thoughts:
I was much more relaxed today during both bottle feeds. It’s really nice to have the speech therapist help but since the Girls are doing so well, she has reduced her visits to 3 times a week instead of daily. It’s great to see the daily improvements with the Girls. Practice makes perfect!!
Our Daily Encouragement:
The ransomed of the Lord will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah 51:11
Monday June 8th
Babies Situation:
Both Girls did well on their feedings today. Trinity had all but 17cc’s out of 50 cc’s. She still tires out and falls asleep half way through but at least she almost finished it. Kinsley finished her entire bottle in 15 minutes but had some reflux during it so she still needs to be paced. Since Kinsley did so well, the speech therapist has recommended that she can take 2 bottles a day and the doctor agreed. We are on our way to success!
Parent's Thoughts:
Let me just tell you how blessed and thankful we are. I met a couple across the bay from us today and she told me that her baby only has a few more days left to live. Their precious little girl was born missing part of her brain and will pass shortly. They plan to bring her home tomorrow to spend as much time with her until she goes to be with the Lord. I will never forget the conversation I had with this sweet Mom. My heart goes out to them. Please pray for them as they go through this. I cannot even fathom what they must be feeling.
Our Daily Encouragement:
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
Romans 14;17-19
Both Girls did well on their feedings today. Trinity had all but 17cc’s out of 50 cc’s. She still tires out and falls asleep half way through but at least she almost finished it. Kinsley finished her entire bottle in 15 minutes but had some reflux during it so she still needs to be paced. Since Kinsley did so well, the speech therapist has recommended that she can take 2 bottles a day and the doctor agreed. We are on our way to success!
Parent's Thoughts:
Let me just tell you how blessed and thankful we are. I met a couple across the bay from us today and she told me that her baby only has a few more days left to live. Their precious little girl was born missing part of her brain and will pass shortly. They plan to bring her home tomorrow to spend as much time with her until she goes to be with the Lord. I will never forget the conversation I had with this sweet Mom. My heart goes out to them. Please pray for them as they go through this. I cannot even fathom what they must be feeling.
Our Daily Encouragement:
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
Romans 14;17-19
Sunday June 7th
Babies Situation:
Both Girls gained weight today. Trinity has finally reached 5 lbs-YEAH!! Good job Trinity! Kinsley gained 2 more ounces weighing 5 lbs 6 oz. Both Girls grew in length as well and now are 17 ¾ inches. Their bottle feeding status remains the same. Trinity took 17 cc’s again, doing most of it half asleep. She must have been really tired today. I had to stimulate her the entire time to keep her half awake for 20 minutes until she was totally passed out. I think I know the issue. The nurse had me pull her hat over her eyes to help her concentrate which in turn put her to sleep. I don’t think we’ll use the hat tomorrow. Kinsley is really getting use to the bottle and finished another complete bottle in 20 minutes.
Parent's Thoughts:
It is still stressful for me to bottle feed the Girls. I am a little more comfortable but geez this is hard work. I even tried to get the nurse to bottle feed for me today but she talked me into doing it. She had to remind me to breath - Thank you Bridget. 12 years ago, she had twins in the NICU so it was nice to know that she felt the same way back then.
Our Daily Encouragement:
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.
Ecclesiastes 9:10
Both Girls gained weight today. Trinity has finally reached 5 lbs-YEAH!! Good job Trinity! Kinsley gained 2 more ounces weighing 5 lbs 6 oz. Both Girls grew in length as well and now are 17 ¾ inches. Their bottle feeding status remains the same. Trinity took 17 cc’s again, doing most of it half asleep. She must have been really tired today. I had to stimulate her the entire time to keep her half awake for 20 minutes until she was totally passed out. I think I know the issue. The nurse had me pull her hat over her eyes to help her concentrate which in turn put her to sleep. I don’t think we’ll use the hat tomorrow. Kinsley is really getting use to the bottle and finished another complete bottle in 20 minutes.
Parent's Thoughts:
It is still stressful for me to bottle feed the Girls. I am a little more comfortable but geez this is hard work. I even tried to get the nurse to bottle feed for me today but she talked me into doing it. She had to remind me to breath - Thank you Bridget. 12 years ago, she had twins in the NICU so it was nice to know that she felt the same way back then.
Our Daily Encouragement:
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.
Ecclesiastes 9:10
Saturday June 6th
Babies Situation:
Today was a low key day. Trinity did a little better on bottle feeding. She took around 17 cc’s which is a big improvement from yesterday. She is good for about 20 minutes but after that, she is done. She won’t even open up her mouth for anymore milk. Miss Kinsley took her entire bottle tonight. Wow, great job Kinsley. We know Trinity will catch up soon. Trinity remains at 4 lbs 15oz while Kinsley is now 5 lbs 4 oz.
Parent's Thoughts:
Both Girls have been full of gas in the last few days. It is surprising the amount of gas they have had and how loud they can be. It makes our nurses and us giggle especially when it echos across the bay. The speech therapist told me the other day that my Girls are “musical”. They grunt and toot all the time. I’ll take that as a compliment. I find it all so cute -ha!
Our Daily Encouragement:
God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Corinthians 10;13
Today was a low key day. Trinity did a little better on bottle feeding. She took around 17 cc’s which is a big improvement from yesterday. She is good for about 20 minutes but after that, she is done. She won’t even open up her mouth for anymore milk. Miss Kinsley took her entire bottle tonight. Wow, great job Kinsley. We know Trinity will catch up soon. Trinity remains at 4 lbs 15oz while Kinsley is now 5 lbs 4 oz.
Parent's Thoughts:
Both Girls have been full of gas in the last few days. It is surprising the amount of gas they have had and how loud they can be. It makes our nurses and us giggle especially when it echos across the bay. The speech therapist told me the other day that my Girls are “musical”. They grunt and toot all the time. I’ll take that as a compliment. I find it all so cute -ha!
Our Daily Encouragement:
God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Corinthians 10;13
Friday June 5th
Babies Situation:
We moved bays again today. Our new bay is nice, big and open but we were able to get a quiet corner. I fed both babies again. Kinsley did well taking half her bottle but Trinity was not so much interested. She kept her lips tightly sealed wanting nothing to do with the bottle. We have some work to do with her! After Kinsley wet through her diaper, onesie, and blanket all over her bed, our Nurse decided they needed the next size up for diapers. Both Girls graduated out of preemie diapers into newborn diapers today - yeah.
Parent's Thoughts:
It’s so exciting to see both Girls in newborn clothes, newborn diapers, and using a newborn size pacifiers. I have been waiting for this day for a long time. We have really enjoyed watching our babies grow. Soon enough, we will have them home with us. Thank you God.
Our Daily Encouragement:
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9
We moved bays again today. Our new bay is nice, big and open but we were able to get a quiet corner. I fed both babies again. Kinsley did well taking half her bottle but Trinity was not so much interested. She kept her lips tightly sealed wanting nothing to do with the bottle. We have some work to do with her! After Kinsley wet through her diaper, onesie, and blanket all over her bed, our Nurse decided they needed the next size up for diapers. Both Girls graduated out of preemie diapers into newborn diapers today - yeah.
Parent's Thoughts:
It’s so exciting to see both Girls in newborn clothes, newborn diapers, and using a newborn size pacifiers. I have been waiting for this day for a long time. We have really enjoyed watching our babies grow. Soon enough, we will have them home with us. Thank you God.
Our Daily Encouragement:
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9
Thursday June 4th
Babies Situation:
The Girls are 36 weeks today and got to meet their Aunt Kirsten for the first time. Kirsten was able to even give Trinity her bath. How fun!! I got the privilege to bottle feed both Girls. Trinity took about 10 cc’s but she was done after that. From the look on her face, she decided that getting fed from the bottle was too much work and preferred the tube feeding - ha. Kinsley did much better and finished half of her bottle before she was too tired to continue. We’ll just have to keep trying until they can get it down. Trinity remains at 4 lbs 15 oz. Kinsley gained weight - she is now at 5 lbs 2 oz.
Parent's Thoughts:
I think bottle feeding is more stressful for me than it is for the babies. I am great at multi-tasking but when it comes to bottle feeding, I have a hard time watching their face for stress cues, feeling their back to see if they are breathing, and making sure the bottle is tipped at the right angle. I am also suppose to pace them with only letting them have up to 5 sucks at a time before giving them a chance to breath. Wow, I never thought bottle feeding could be so hard.
Our Daily Encouragement:
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
Isaiah 40:28
The Girls are 36 weeks today and got to meet their Aunt Kirsten for the first time. Kirsten was able to even give Trinity her bath. How fun!! I got the privilege to bottle feed both Girls. Trinity took about 10 cc’s but she was done after that. From the look on her face, she decided that getting fed from the bottle was too much work and preferred the tube feeding - ha. Kinsley did much better and finished half of her bottle before she was too tired to continue. We’ll just have to keep trying until they can get it down. Trinity remains at 4 lbs 15 oz. Kinsley gained weight - she is now at 5 lbs 2 oz.
Parent's Thoughts:
I think bottle feeding is more stressful for me than it is for the babies. I am great at multi-tasking but when it comes to bottle feeding, I have a hard time watching their face for stress cues, feeling their back to see if they are breathing, and making sure the bottle is tipped at the right angle. I am also suppose to pace them with only letting them have up to 5 sucks at a time before giving them a chance to breath. Wow, I never thought bottle feeding could be so hard.
Our Daily Encouragement:
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
Isaiah 40:28
Wednesday June 3rd
Babies Situation:
Today was exciting. Not only are the Girls 11 weeks old today but when I came to visit, Kinsley was off her nasal cannula. So far, she’s done really well all day. Go Kinsley!! The occupational therapist and speech therapist also visited the Girls today. The occupational therapist assessed both Girls and let me know that their muscle tone has gotten a lot better in the last week. It was really nice to hear!! The speech therapist decided it was time to bottle feed both Girls. With them being almost 36 weeks, she said that we would start trying once a day until they can figure it out. I was very thankful to hear this knowing it can take weeks for a 24 weeker to catch on to bottle feeding. I was there while she fed Trinity and she did pretty good. Her heart rate and oxygen level remained where it should. She would take a few sucks, and then she’d take a rest to breathe. From what I was told, Kinsley did the same. Baby steps. Trinity gained weight today coming in at 4 lbs 15 oz. She’s almost caught up to Kinsley who remains at 5 lbs.
Parent's Thoughts:
The speech therapist is going to let met work with the Girls on their bottle feeding. Tomorrow, she is going to let me bottle feed them as she watches and instructs me on what to do. I am very excited about this. I know it’s not going to be easy for them but they will catch on when they are ready. From here out, this will be a daily routine for us. Please pray that they catch on soon and that they stop having apnea.
Our Daily Encouragement:
God’s peace…is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet at rest.
Philippians 4:7
Today was exciting. Not only are the Girls 11 weeks old today but when I came to visit, Kinsley was off her nasal cannula. So far, she’s done really well all day. Go Kinsley!! The occupational therapist and speech therapist also visited the Girls today. The occupational therapist assessed both Girls and let me know that their muscle tone has gotten a lot better in the last week. It was really nice to hear!! The speech therapist decided it was time to bottle feed both Girls. With them being almost 36 weeks, she said that we would start trying once a day until they can figure it out. I was very thankful to hear this knowing it can take weeks for a 24 weeker to catch on to bottle feeding. I was there while she fed Trinity and she did pretty good. Her heart rate and oxygen level remained where it should. She would take a few sucks, and then she’d take a rest to breathe. From what I was told, Kinsley did the same. Baby steps. Trinity gained weight today coming in at 4 lbs 15 oz. She’s almost caught up to Kinsley who remains at 5 lbs.
Parent's Thoughts:
The speech therapist is going to let met work with the Girls on their bottle feeding. Tomorrow, she is going to let me bottle feed them as she watches and instructs me on what to do. I am very excited about this. I know it’s not going to be easy for them but they will catch on when they are ready. From here out, this will be a daily routine for us. Please pray that they catch on soon and that they stop having apnea.
Our Daily Encouragement:
God’s peace…is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet at rest.
Philippians 4:7
Tuesday June 2nd
Babies Situation:
The Girls got their eye exams today and nothing has changed. Still no ROP which is awesome!! Thank you God. Also, one of the Girls reached 5 pounds today. Miss Kinsley is officially 5 lbs!! Trinity is not far behind at 4 lbs 12 oz. I’m sure she’ll catch up very soon. It has been another good day for the Girls. No big changes. They are in the feeding-growing stage.
Parent's Thoughts:
I was able to talk to our primary doctor today. He said developmentally, the Girls are more like 32/33 weeks rather than 35 weeks but they are where he would expect them to be since they were born at 24 weeks - so they are 2-3 weeks behind-not too bad for what they have been through. He still expects them to go home between 40-42 weeks so they should be home by mid July. Yeah!!
Our Daily Encouragement:
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.
Philippians 4:8
The Girls got their eye exams today and nothing has changed. Still no ROP which is awesome!! Thank you God. Also, one of the Girls reached 5 pounds today. Miss Kinsley is officially 5 lbs!! Trinity is not far behind at 4 lbs 12 oz. I’m sure she’ll catch up very soon. It has been another good day for the Girls. No big changes. They are in the feeding-growing stage.
Parent's Thoughts:
I was able to talk to our primary doctor today. He said developmentally, the Girls are more like 32/33 weeks rather than 35 weeks but they are where he would expect them to be since they were born at 24 weeks - so they are 2-3 weeks behind-not too bad for what they have been through. He still expects them to go home between 40-42 weeks so they should be home by mid July. Yeah!!
Our Daily Encouragement:
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.
Philippians 4:8
Monday June 1st
Babies Situation:
It was bath night again tonight. I gave Trinity a bath while Keith gave Kinsley a bath. They both enjoyed their baths and we enjoyed giving them their baths! Trinity gained weight today and now weighs 4 lbs 12 oz (she’s catching up with sis). Kinsley is still at 4 lbs 14 oz. It will be a short time before we have 5 pounders on our hands! Trinity’s feeding time decreased. She is now getting fed over 30 minutes rather than 1 hour. This is another preparation for bottle feeding. Both Girls had labs drawn to check hemoglobin levels and both came back OK.
Parent's Thoughts:
I want to share something with you that has helped me get through the last 10 weeks. Within the first few weeks of having the babies, I heard a much needed sermon on TV. I took some notes on a near by breast feeding guide that I carried with me everywhere just in case I had questions. I read it multiple times a day. I couldn’t have gotten through all this without it.
-Make the most of each day and accept things we cannot change
-Don’t waste time focusing on the negative
-Give it all up to God each night
-Don’t think about the set backs but think about or thank God for what doors he is about to open
-Disappointments are inevitable, misery is optional
-When you get up, learn to accept the present God has given you
I hope these lines help you as much as they have helped me. They are simple but powerful.
Our Daily Encouragement:
God surrounds (us) with his loving care.
Deuteronomy 33:12
It was bath night again tonight. I gave Trinity a bath while Keith gave Kinsley a bath. They both enjoyed their baths and we enjoyed giving them their baths! Trinity gained weight today and now weighs 4 lbs 12 oz (she’s catching up with sis). Kinsley is still at 4 lbs 14 oz. It will be a short time before we have 5 pounders on our hands! Trinity’s feeding time decreased. She is now getting fed over 30 minutes rather than 1 hour. This is another preparation for bottle feeding. Both Girls had labs drawn to check hemoglobin levels and both came back OK.
Parent's Thoughts:
I want to share something with you that has helped me get through the last 10 weeks. Within the first few weeks of having the babies, I heard a much needed sermon on TV. I took some notes on a near by breast feeding guide that I carried with me everywhere just in case I had questions. I read it multiple times a day. I couldn’t have gotten through all this without it.
-Make the most of each day and accept things we cannot change
-Don’t waste time focusing on the negative
-Give it all up to God each night
-Don’t think about the set backs but think about or thank God for what doors he is about to open
-Disappointments are inevitable, misery is optional
-When you get up, learn to accept the present God has given you
I hope these lines help you as much as they have helped me. They are simple but powerful.
Our Daily Encouragement:
God surrounds (us) with his loving care.
Deuteronomy 33:12
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