featherweight

Today Charlie is two weeks old. He gained an ounce last night, which puts him back above his birth weight again! He's getting fed 14 ml of milk every three hours, so hopefully he'll continue to gain. He's still as light as can be, which I can finally attest to, since I got to HOLD him for the first time tonight! His night nurse, Bladka, needed to change his bedding, so offered to let one of us hold him while she did so, and my sweet husband let me be the first. The nurse wrapped him up like a little burrito and put him in my arms, and I got to hold him until she was done. Preemies can't take much stimulation at all without getting agitated, so his "field trip" out was short, but great! And George should get his turn tomorrow night.

Our days are still busy with lots of time at the hospital, lots of pumping, and the occasional break for fresh air. Thanks to our very understanding workplaces, we've been able to spend every day of his first two weeks with Charlie, which has been such a gift. We generally have a visitor or two a day, and otherwise, George and I sit with him, change diapers and take his temperature, and talk to the doctors and nurses. We love the nurses that take care of him; they are so great about getting us involved in his care, keeping us informed about what's going on, and generally just taking great care of our boy.

This experience has definitely reminded us how many wonderful people we have in our lives. We've been spoiled with lots of great food, which is fabulous since cooking and grocery shopping are very low on our list of priorities these days, and it's great to have home-cooked meals! George's co-workers are providing dinners and snacks every other night until mid-MAY!, my co-workers have sent breakfast goodies and gift certificates for food delivery, and several friends have sent or brought over meals as well. We've also had so many offers of help, from errands to parking spots to places to crash in the city. We have beautiful flowers throughout our house, and cards galore. When he's old enough to understand, we'll make sure to fill Charlie in on how many people have been sending love, food, help, and prayers his way! Thank you!