Poop . . . it is a big deal in the NICU . . . as you know, up to this point, Peter has needed a little assistance in this "area" . . . well, it appears that we have now jumped over that hurdle. Who knew a 3 lb little boy could make so much? CRAZY! We are seriously proud of him though. His little body shouldn't be able to process food this way yet . . . but, he is doing it . . . I don't even mind changing the diapers . . . it is like a happy surprise of grossness every time . . .
Anyway . . .
Peter was working really hard on breathing this morning. He wasn't having trouble breathing, just working extra hard to take all the breaths. Because of this, the doctors decided they would increase his "flow" back to 4. This isn't a setback. He just needs a little more support. We don't want him laboring so hard to breathe as this takes away his strength to grow in other ways. We are hopeful that he will be able to wean back down to 3 liters very soon, but want him to have the benefit of easy, labor free breathing. He is still only receiving room air (no extra oxygen). He was so relaxed and peaceful this afternoon . . . the increase obviously was very helpful. We'll continue to pray that he can be removed from breathing assistance altogether and would appreciate your prayers for the same.
As for feeding, Peter is doing magnificently . . . he is up to 10ml/hour every three hours . . . they are continuing to increase this every twelve hours and he is now receiving some protein supplement in the breastmilk. The extra protein will really help him to grow . . . pack on those pounds, little man.
Grammy & GrampS and Aunt Allison are coming to meet Peter this weekend . . . we can't wait for them to meet . . . I know they will be as smitten as we are!
