Report Cards

So I'm sure some of you are wondering exactly how the boys are doing, and I haven't taken the time to let everyone know, so here goes.

In the pictures you'll see various wires, etc that are connected to the boys, each one serves a purpose. First of all, their vitals are monitored around the clock: heart rate, O2 levels and their breathing patterns. These are the little leads on their chests that you see. If they go out of range an alarm will sound so a nurse will know and check on them. They also have a little temperature lead which you will see on their chest, its a little gold sticky thing that makes sure they are the correct temp all the time. Their Isolettes keep them at a constant temp because they don't have the ability to keep their temp regulated yet. They all have IVs through which they are fed until they get up to full feedings of mama milk. Their IVs are either in their hands, feet or arm depending on which is easiest. And the tube through their nose goes down into their tummy and this tube is used to feed them mama milk and also to check if there's any residual in their tummy before a feeding. Basically they will pump their tummy first before adding any milk to make sure they don't get over fed. Other than that, these guys have needed almost no intervention yet, they are doing really well for their ages.

Anton
AJ is the active one. He likes to move around and wiggle off his little bed, so we have to check on him lots. He was born 3lbs6oz and is back to birth weight already. He's taking his food really well and yesterday he got to lay on mama's tummy which he absolutely loved. He clung to her like he would never let go and then fell completely asleep. I like him the best.

Bensen
Ben was the largest at birth (3lbs 12oz) but he's giving us a run for our money right now. He doesn't seem to like his IVs, and they've had to keep giving him new IVs because they infiltrate. Basically the vein is too weak and the fluid seeps into the surrounding tissue. This must be painful, so we really feel for him, but there's nothing we can do except move the IV and start it again. I've lost track of how many different IVs he's had, but its over 10 now so the poor little guy is taking it on the chin. Only when he's up to full feeds can we take him off the IV so we're really hoping that comes soon. Other than that problem he is just fine. I like him the best.

Chase
Chase is the little fighter, he was the smallest at birth (3lbs 1oz) but he is growing the fastest and is so alert and responsive that its easy to spend time with him. He is really tough and I think he's going to do just great. No worries about Chase. I like him the best.

Mama will be going home tomorrow, which will make Mark's day! He has really missed her and so it will be nice to have us three at home together again. Mark is really taken with his brothers and I think he'll be an amazing big bro.