Last Day in the NICU

Natalie moved out of the NICU tonight, and to the Progressive Care Nursery (NPCN) after they took the PCVC line (IV) out of her food.  She has been eating well recently, so she no longer to receive nutrition intravenously. 

1. Natalie is continuing to eat more everyday.  Amy was able to feed her twice today, and at least one times she drank 55 CCs.  55 CCs was the target before she left the NICU.   
2. In addition she ate from Amy twice today, The lactation consultant came by and said that Natalie was sucking very well, but it was going to take practice to get a full feeding. She ate from her for about 15 minutes and before she gave her a bottle.  Natalie seems to drink better when the milk is warm.
3. This morning Amy got to tour the NPCN before the baby came.  It is much more private than the NICU.  The doctors think she will be able to learn to eat better there.  The room has a terrace where we can take her outside when it is not to cold. 
4. Jill went to see Natalie tonight.  She said her weight was up to 7 lbs. 2.3 oz.   
5. Someone anonymously paid for a month of Julia’s Pre-School.  Thanks to who ever generously gave us that gift!  And Praise the Lord for providing for us.    

Please keep praying for us:

1. Pray that Natalie continues to eat better.  We hope in the NPCN she will learn to eat much faster. 
2. Pray for rest for all of us.  I think the last couple of days have been hard on the kids: Julia had a very bad day yesterday.  Today she seemed much better.  No doubt she senses the stress we are feeling, and may be having the typical issues for the next youngest child when a new baby arrives.
3. The nurses talked about the possibility of a feeding tube through her stomach if she needs it.  I think they were preparing us for the worst case scenario, everyone continues to say she is doing very well. 
4. As Natalie gets closer to coming home, I am beginning to be anxious about her future, and what that means for me and the family.  Much more could be said about that, but I am tired and will have to leave that for another post.