Monday, May 9, 2011

Free Atlast!

Today Lea had her four month (and one week) check-up. So many wonderful things to tell! First off, her current weight is 8 lbs., 2 oz.! That's nearly five times her birth weight. She is still below the third percentile in size, but she is steadily growing -- and that's what's most important.

Last time you'll ever see those wires!

Also, the doctor gave said we can FINALLY take her off the apnea monitor. I cannot explain to you how excited I am about this. Lea is finally free! I am so happy that now when I pick up my girl, I don't have to worry about any stupid wires getting tangled or pulled out. Now Lea won't have any red marks under those sweet little arms, and overall she'll be much more comfortable.

With all the excitement, though, does come some anxiety. Lea has never slept without being attached to her monitor. Although that machine has been a severe pain-in-the-butt, it has given us peace of mind at night when we're asleep. Luckily, I've learned an invaluable lesson over the past few months: PRAYER CONQUERS ALL. So tonight, I will be praying that God watches over Lea as she sleeps wire-free for the first time.

Goodbye monitor!

The doctor also said we can start giving Lea solid food -- so we're going to try some cereal later this evening. Time is flying by. Is my little eight pound baby really about to try solid food??? Amazing. My tiny girl continues to thrive in every way. I am so proud of her, and all that she has accomplished in her short time on this Earth. I can't wait to see what the future holds for her!

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Four Months... My, How Time Flies.

Today, Lea is four months old! You'd never know it by looking at her. In fact, she could easily pass for a baby that was born yesterday. She fits comfortably in all her newborn clothes now, although there's still a little room for growth. Her preemie sized socks, however, slip right off of her tiny, narrow feet.

4 months old
Anytime we go places, people will comment, "Oh a brand NEW baby!" Most often I just nod and go along with it, avoiding a long explanation. Plus, it's fun to let them think that I am a this freak of nature who managed to lose all her prego-pounds in a matter of days. Ha!

Preemies have two different ages: a chronological age, which is how old the child actually is, and a gestational age, or the age she would be if she'd been born on her due date. During the first two years, Lea's development will likely be more on track with her gestational age, which today marks six weeks and two days. She'll catch up soon enough!

Lea at her first crawfish boil - 4/30/11

Lately, my little muffin is enjoying lots of tummy time. She likes to lift her little wobbly head and look around. She also loves the water during bath time. I think we may have a future swimmer on our hands! Lea is finally sleeping peacefully through the WHOLE night! Ahhhhh... gotta love it. She's beginning to give us some social smiles, and we've also gotten a few tiny chuckles. Baby girl can now suck down a four ounce bottle like its nobody's business. Her favorite song is Keri Hilson's "Pretty Girl Rock," which when I sing it to her, I usually get a crooked little smile in return. She loves visitors, so if you haven't already, (and you're not sick, of course) come by and meet our girl!

Life is good. God is great. I couldn't ask for a better life with my beautiful little family.

2 Corinthians 9:15 - "Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!"