I liked it when he didn't puke all over

The home health nurse came yesterday and little Finnegan weighs 8 pounds 9.5 ounces. Of course, just shy of what I was hoping for, but still a good weight gain. We'll have a better idea next week at his doctor's appointment (because when you use different scales, they could be slightly off). In actuality, I was hoping for 8 lbs 11 oz or higher, but I'll take what I can get.

On that note, this is what happens when Finn pukes an entire bottle:The cover had to go in the washing machine. I swear there were at least 15 hooks, straps and snaps to get it off the frame! He has been profusely puking the last couple of days. I mean PUKING! I don't know if I should be worried or not. The nurse yesterday asked if anybody was sick in the house, which we aren't. He has extra flem in his mouth, which might be causing him to gag and then puke. And he hasn't been eating very well (puking out at least one full feeding and then eating partial for a few feedings). I'm not sure. I called his doctor today, but of course, she wasn't in. She is back on Monday, so I figured I'd keep an eye on it this weekend and either call the doctor on call or if things are okay, just call her on Monday. His appointment is on Wednesday, so I can for sure talk to her about it then. Oh, where is his owner's manual?!?!

Aren't staples for paper?

While this isn't in regards to Finn, it did happen in our house, so it still warrents a blog entry (I had to check with Becky first!). Austin had his first trip to the ER on Tuesday night! He was jumping on the couch (I think...I was upstairs feeding Finn) and he fell and hit his head on the coffee table. Since the edges and corners are rounded, I was suprised it could do that much damage, but now I know for future reference (i.e. when Finn is old enough to jump and fall!). So, his head was bleeding profusely and thankfully, Pete was here, who happens to be an EMT. He said it was bad enough to possibly need stitches, so the three of them headed to good ol' North Memorial (the site of the beginning of Finn's fateful journey into this world). Three hours later, even being on the "fast track," Austin came home with a Happy Meal and three staples in his head! I think Becky was more upset and grossed out by the whole thing than Austin was. He was the hero at daycare yesterday because all the other kids thought it was so cool...you know how kids are! Becky took some pictures, but hasn't sent them my way yet. I'll post on our picture site when I get them. He goes to the doctor (seriously, his favorite place to go because Nemo is in the waiting room!) next Thursday to get the staples removed. Luckily, Austin's hair doesn't need brushing because Becky will have nothing to do with Austin's head or the staples! Too funny. All's well that ends well.

No monitor or hair?

Finn has been sleeping a lot the last few days. Uh, oh...does that mean a growth spurt?!?! He gets weighed tomorrow byt the home health nurse, so we'll see how he is doing. I really hope he continues to do well and get big! I have my eye on at least 8 pounds, 10 ounces, so we'll see!

So, I haven't mentioned the monitor in a while...because there isn't anything to report about it! Finn doesn't set it off any more...well, hardly any more. I would say MAYBE once every other or every third day...instead of several times every time he nursed. This is huge. I can't wait until we do the next download to see what they think. I can only think that he is finally out growing whatever it was that made him set it off and that means we can get rid of the monitor soon! Scary.

Finn had a reverse mohawk for a while. He lost his hair in the front and down the middle but the sides didn't really fall out (kind of like old man hair!). He even has a few really long pieces on the top like a comb over! Too funny. Anyway, we noticed this week that he has peach fuzz growing in on top! It is really cute and helps to blend in the long pieces. I don't think it will turn out in a picture, otherwise I'd post one to show you what I'm talking about. I can't imagine how much hair he will have if it is anything like it was when he was born!

Car's boo-boo all fixed

Oh and my car is all fixed. I filed a police report, called my car insurance and contacted an auto glass repair company all before Noon today (and showered!). Then, that auto glass place was able to schedule to come to my house and fix it this afternoon! That is what I call service. The technician showed up about two hours after I called and had it all fixed and the glass vacuumed up in less than an hour. Now we just have to be careful for little pieces of glass on the passenger seat for a little while (no wearing shorts!). Since I was expecting to have to drive it somewhere and leave it there for several days, I'm VERY happy. They even said I might get reimbursed for my auto navigation system because they have a new "partial theft" policy or something like that. Hey, I'm not asking questions, I just want my GPS!

Craft project finally finished

Remember right after Finn came home, I mentioned that I wanted to do a craft project for Finn's room? Well, it is finally done and installed: I did the ribbon and Jim helped me nail them on the wall over Memorial Day weekend. I think it turned out really cute and it is positioned so you can see it as you are walking up the stairs. Jim also got the curtains and valances hung, too (minus one panel because Austin is using it right now)!See the little animals in the corner on the wall? We put those up a while ago. Now, I think Finn's room is complete. Nothing like waiting until he is almost five months old!

Over the weekend, I transitioned Finn into size 1 diapers! My baby is getting so big. Technically, the newborn size says up to 10 pounds...which Finn obviously isn't that big yet. But I'd like to see a 10 pound baby fit into newborn size! Finn is just over 8 pounds and they certainly "fit" him, but do not fit his output...if you know what I mean. So the size 1 diapers are huge, but work much better to avoid blow outs.

Also, I had to put away my favorite set of long sleeve onsies yesterday. They were from our friend Erin and were SO cute. But they started looking like three quarter length sleeves, made him look like he had a buda belly (which I didn't mind!) and there just not long enough any more. They said up to 7 pounds, so I guess it was time. It was tough for me, but I guess I'd better get used to it. I added 0-3 month stuff to his dresser and have 3 month stuff on stand by.

So, Finn is pouting. When he cries, or tries to cry, he sticks his lower lip out and it quivers a little! He has been doing it for a while, but I got a picture of it today.
Is it wrong that #1: I think this picture is adorable and #2 it took me several minutes to get this picture and I just let him cry?!?! Oh, well. I kept giving him his pacifier and he kept spitting it out and then crying! We don't have hardly any pictures of him crying and I guess that is part of his "story" too...not just the super cute faces and poses!

Happy Memorial Day and poop

Honestly, we aren't doing much today that honors the men and women who have fought and died for our country, but they are in our hearts just the same. I'd like to go down to the river and take Finn for a walk...not exactly Memorial Day related, but should be peaceful and get us outside for a while.

We've been working on our lawn the last couple of days. It needs help! Pete has been working on it for us (and mowing...he is the best!), but we figured we should probably take some pride in our lawn, too, since we own the place. We spread some seed first and then some weed and feed yesterday and gave it a good dousing of water today. Hopefully things start to look better.

I know I talk about Finn and his pooping a lot, but today, he had Jim and me crying with tears from laughter. Jim was changing him (it was already a dirty diaper, mind you) and Finn tooted on him. In my head I thought, be careful because when he did that to me, a bunch of poop came out right after. But I didn't have time to say anything because Finn projectile pooped all over EVERYTHING. He even got the wall and the window! And then while we were trying to clean it up, he peed all over, too! It was so gross that all we could do is laugh. Hey, Finn felt a lot better after doing it, so I guess that is good. I'm laughing even now as I write this. I told Jim he had to do this post, but he says he doesn't like writing about poop...who cares! That is what our son's life revolves around right now! Ha, ha.

Anyway, that has been our eventful Memorial Day so far! I hope you are all having a wonderful and relaxing day. Later Jim is grilling hamburgers that he ground the meat himself. Should be yummy!

Eye lashes that won't quit

Finn definitely takes after his daddy at least in one respect...his eye lashes! In the last couple of days, they have gotten so long and now they actually curl up! For a long time, he didn't have any eye lashes and then he had them, but they were transparent and you couldn't really see them. Not any longer! I think he will give Austin a run for his money in the eye lash department!

Happy 30th birthday to daddy one day late (I didn't have time to post yesterday). We've been busy. Mommy stayed up until midnight on Thursday night to wish daddy happy birthday (this is a HUGE thing for mommy to do!). Jim's cousins from North Dakota, Dave and Matt, stopped by to play with Finn for a while. It was good to see them and catch up. Then Stacey and auntie Kristine came by and spent the afternoon (running to the store with mommy to get daddy's birthday present!). I never wait until the last minute, but I guess things change when you have a baby and he can't go out! Uncle John stopped by on his way from the airport and we (John, Kristine, Finn and mommy) sang "Happy birthday" to daddy and had Red Velvet Cake (Yum-O!). Jim's birthday was pretty low key, but that is what he said he wanted.

Today, mommy's cousin Lauren came for a while in the morning, which was SO nice because we haven't seen much of her lately. She is a senior at the U of M, so she has been busy. Then auntie NaeNae and Nick came by and then auntie Kristine came back in the evening! It is a good thing that we like visitors!

Oh, my car got broken into today, too...in the middle of the afternoon in our driveway! Jim got home from running errands around 1pm and it was fine and when he walked out to his car around 3pm to grab a few things, my passenger window was broken in and my auto navigation system was stolen. Of course, no auto glass places are open on a Saturday afternoon, so we pulled my car into the garage and will have to file a police report and take it to get fixed on Tuesday. I just hate stuff like this...so needless and unnecessary. Oh, well...in the big perspective of things, it could have been much worse.

He's a bruiser

That is what Finn's doctor said today after weighing him. Finn now weighs 8 pounds 4 ounces. Yup...EIGHT pounds! He gained one full pound in two weeks. That is really good and puts him just above the 10th percentile for weight on the preemie chart (if you remember, he was at the 7th for a long time). Jim and I were concerned about his weight gain because he has been spitting up more than usual and sometimes just doesn't want to eat. I guess we worried for nothing!

Side note: when our friends Darren and Nicki's baby was born (two days ago), he was EXACTLY the same weight and height as Finn is right now and Finn is four and a half months old! It is all in the perspective, I guess.

Finn's doctor said that if he can stay above the 10th percentile "for a while" we can reduce (or maybe eliminate) his fortified bottles! Oh, that will be a happy day for me...not so much for Jim. Jim likes the time he has with Finn when he feeds him his bottles. But it is SO much easier for me not to coordinate when he needs a bottle, feed him, burp him, pump and then clean up. But, even if we don't do bottles regularly, Jim will still feed him when I have other plans (not that I do very often!!). Anyway, we'll see how that goes.

We've also been fairly concerned the last several days about Finn's intestines. He seems to be grunting and pushing very hard and not getting anything out (we weren't sure if it was gas or constipation or what) and his tummy has been pretty hard and large. Plus, he is really fussy, which isn't like his normal self. So, just to be on the safe side, Finn's doctor ordered an x-ray to see what is going on in there. The preliminary results were that it looks good (no blockage or air pockets that she could see), but since she doesn't review baby x-rays very often, she is sending it to the specialist at North Memorial to review. We'll have those results on Tuesday (because of the long holiday weekend). In the meantime she said to keep him on the Miralax (we were trying to eliminate that since he isn't on iron any longer) and to up his prune juice to 30 mLs...we were giving him FIVE! I hope we haven't created a poop bomb! I guess we'll see. He loves prune juice, so I'm sure he will like the extra amount.

On a different note, Jim took today and tomorrow off, so after Finn's doctor appointment, I was able to do something I've been needing to do for over a year and a half...drop my wedding dress off to be cleaned and preserved! What's the rush, right?!?! (in case you don't remember, we were married in October...of 2007!) They said it would take a month and I was like, "um, that's fine!" It feels good to have that sent in. Thanks Lynn for "making" me do it. I just needed a push and a reason to do it, I guess!

Baptism...finally!

We FINALLY have a date for baptism! We (Jim, me and Finn's godparents...Becky, John and Kelsie) went to baptism class last week on Tuesday. It was surprisingly informational and I'm glad we went. They talked about the symbolism of baptism and what it means to be baptized, and how the actual baptism will work.

So I called the church the next day (Wednesday) to schedule Finn's baptism and she had to ask the priest about his schedule and said she would call me back. Well, I hadn't heard back by Friday, so I called back and talked to a different lady who didn't know what was going on. Then I forgot to call on Monday (too busy!) but remembered yesterday. She confirmed the time and date.

So, Finn is being baptized on Sunday, June 28 at Holy Cross after the 10am mass. This is a big day for me (well, and Finn, too obviously!). When I was admitted to the hospital in December after my water broke and they told me I was going to deliver...I was sure my baby was going to die. I told anybody who would listen that I wanted him baptized before he died, if it came to that, because I didn't want it to be over looked in the chaos. As it so happened, they were able to stop my labor and baptism wasn't necessary when he was born 10 days later, but even just remembering the place I was at mentally and emotionally makes me sad even now, four and a half months later. I guess I just appreciate Finn being able to be baptized just a little more than I would have, had he been born in April instead. We think he is going to wear Jim's baptism gown, which is pretty special.

On a slightly different note, congratulations to our friends Nicki and Darren! They had a healthy baby boy yesterday (over a week over due)! His name is Dane Lee...I don't know much more than that, but I think mom and baby are doing fine.

My aunt and uncle, Tony and Vickie, stopped by this morning for a nice visit. We hadn't seen them since they visited me in the hospital right before I had Finn so it was nice to catch up. Plus, I can't believe that their oldest, Alyssa, is graduating high school this year! I remember when she was a baby...where does the time go? I'm sure we'll be saying that about Finn before we know it! Thanks for coming to visit and meet Finn!!

Finn's ROP is dead

We had another eye doctor appointment for Finn today. It went exceedingly well, other than Finn completely puking right beforehand. It went everywhere. I'm so glad I switched to a diaper bag because I had an extra blanket and clothes. It was out of character for him because he hadn't just eaten, but who knows. It even came out his nose. I don't remember this happening when I've been around other babies (but I'm sure it does!), but it really bothers me. He grasps for air and there isn't much I can do (the suction bulb is still too big for his nose). I hate it. He just looked at me like, "What is happening mom?" He cried I hadn't heard before and my heart was pretty much broken.

Then the doctor came in and did his exam...which cause more screaming. He HATES having his eyes propped open, which I don't blame him. It looks terrible. BUT...we had good news again. The ROP disease is still there but completely inactive. That means there is practically no chance that it can come back and cause damage to Finn's eye. This is a huge relief. Finn doesn't have to go back for two more months and this is just to start checking his vision and to keep an eye on the disease (it is still there, but more like scar tissue than anything else).

It was so nice out tonight that we grilled (which isn't anything new) but then ate outside. Finn was outside with us (in the shade of course) in just a onsie. You know it is hot when he is just in a onsie. It is a first for him and he looked so darn cute. Sorry, I forgot to take a picture...I know, how terrible!

Grandpa Ron and Memere were here yesterday and today. It is nice to have them around...if nothing else for a little break. Memere got up with Finn at 6am today so I could actually sleep for more than one hour at a time. I don't know what Finn's deal was last night, but he seemed to be starving but wouldn't eat well. Makes for a very long night for mom (and probably Finn, too!). Ron was showing Austin how to hold and swing a bat today, so Austin thought that was pretty neat and was really sad when they had to leave because Austin wanted to play with Ron more!

Finn's first road trip

Even though it might have been a little soon, we decided to take a trip to Ortonville this past weekend. Jim's great-grandma hasn't been able to meet Finn yet and since she is 100 years old, we didn't know how many opportunities there would be (we'd rather she see him 10 times than not at all!).

So, we headed out on Saturday around 11:30...not bad considering I was hoping for around Noon! We ended up taking Hwy 55 (don't ask why!) which took a little longer. We stopped in Paynesville at A&W (yum!) for lunch, which we got in the drive through and ate in the car. Before that, Finn had been pretty quiet and sleeping, but I think he got hungry, so I sat in the back seat with him the rest of the way to my moms (easier to keep him happy when you're next to him...and safer since I had to unbuckle and turn around to see what he needed). We got to mom's and Finn ate. Then we stopped quickly at my dad's and headed to Ortonville.

Great-great Grandma Della didn't know that Finnegan was coming, so we had to get to Ortonville before she demanded to get taken back home. Well, we walked in the door and once she realized who it was, she was so happy. She even held Finn a few times.

The second picture is a "five" generation picture. Granny (Jim's great grandma), a picture of Gram (Jim's grandma), Ron (Jim's dad), Jim (himself) and Finn (Jim's son). Pretty crazy. If only Gram could be here, too. She would be over the moon about Finn. Sigh...things to wish for.

Then, after Granny was taken back home, Finn went to his first baseball game (it just so happened to be uncle John's team playing!). That is uncle John batting in the background. It was a little chilly and windy, so we sat outside to watch uncle John bat twice (Pete was also playing, but I didn't get a picture!) and then we (Memere, Finn and I) headed to the car to watch the rest of the game. I'm sure this will be the first of many of uncle John's baseball games for Finn.

Then on Sunday, we got up, looked for John's keys for an hour (which he took with him to his baseball game...oops!) and then headed for home. We stopped at my grandma and grandpa Smith's and grandma and grandpa Walsh's in Benson (they both happened to be home when we dropped by unannounced). It was nice to chat with them for a few minutes. Then we stopped at mom's again (great place to stop and feed Finn). She made Rhubbarb Crunch, so I was all about that. Yumm-O! Then we headed to Willmar to stop and see my aunt Vicky and then we finally headed for home.

Surprisingly, Finn did really well until about 30 minutes from home...then he lost it (since our trip took five and a half hours!). So I sat in the back with him and kept him somewhat happy until we got home. Then he ate and crashed for the night. Overall, he did great this weekend. It was overwhelming for him with everything going on, but he handled it well. Hopefully we don't try to cram quite so much into our next trip.

Some more "firsts"

First, I broke down and started using a diaper bag for the first time last night. I had just been putting a couple diapers and wipes in my purse (it is pretty big), but all the moms at our classes had diaper bags, so I felt like I wasn't as prepared as they were (for what, I'm not sure!). So, I got the diaper bag out (thanks auntie Kelsie and Memere) and filled it with stuff I probably won't need very often...but I'll have it!

Second, Finn wore "shoes" for the first time yesterday. Sorry, I can't remember who he got them from...but they are all soft and more like slippers than shoes, but the LOOK like shoes. They were so cute and they even stayed on.

Third, Finn is wearing shorts today for the first time! He woke up feeling a little warm to Jim and me, so I was finally able to put him in the short sleeved shorts outfit from Auntie NaeNae. I haven't gotten a picture of that yet. I don't like that his little feet are cool, but I guess that isn't supposed to be a big deal with babies. Plus, we keep the house around 76 degrees during the day, so I'm sure he is warm enough!

Finally, I used the Snugli front baby carrier today, too (thanks Lisa and G'ma Walsh!). Austin and I had to go out to water our two baby trees and I didn't want to have to lug the stroller through the grass. The Snugli worked prefectly and after a few seconds of not knowing what was going on, Finn seemed to like being in it. He fell asleep about five minutes later! BUT when we came in, he set the apnea alarm off, so I'm thinking even though weight-wise he is big enough, his body might not be (he was probably squished down or something). So, we'll wait a little bit to try it again. I loved using it, though. I felt so mobile!

Monitor-good; Weight-good

The nurse from the apnea program called me yesterday after talking with the doctor. The doctor is not overly concerned with the lack of improvement regarding the number of alarms Finn is having and he thinks Finn will eventually just out grow whatever is making him set the alarms off. This is what we were told to begin with, so I'm happy to hear he agrees. The nurse was just being cautious and I'd rather her question something and it be fine than not question it and something be wrong! So, now Finn has to just stop setting the monitor off. On a good note, it has only gone off twice since they reset the low threshold of the heart rate to 70 bps on Tuesday! That is really good. Keep it up little man.

On other good news, the home health nurse came today and our little guy now weighs 7 pounds 11.5 ounces! This is good news because #1. he is gaining weight (duh!), but also #2. because he is gaining exactly how much he should be! He should gain 1 ounce a day and last Thursday he weighed 7 pounds 4.5 ounces. I was a little concerned because he is only eating once during the night (he was eating two or three times) and often he is stretching it out to 4 hours between feeding during the day, too. But worry not, momma! For now, all is good. We are a stone's throw away from 8 pounds!

Monitor and iron

The nurse from the apnea program called me yesterday with the results of Finn's monitor download. In 11 days, he had 10 apnea alarms and 92 low heart rate. She says that she is concerned that he isn't improving, which kind of upset me. I mean, I feel like people say something is fine and then all of a sudden say it isn't. If he hasn't been improving, why wait until it is a concern to say something?!?! She is meeting with the doctor to discuss Finn today around Noon and will call me after to go over what they decided or talked about. On the up side, since they lowered his low heart rate down to 70 bps (beats per second), he hasn't set it off yesterday or today! Maybe that was the trick. I guess we'll see.

On a very happy and excited note, we received the results from Finn's lab draws last week and his iron and hemoglobin levels are normal! That means we can discontinue the iron supplement and just put him on a liquid multi-vitamin with iron (his formula is also fortified with iron). This might not seem like a big thing to others, but we are hoping by taking him off the iron supplement, it will help with his pooping (or inability to do so) and then we can take him off the Miralax, too.

I've been watching Austin on Tuesdays. This is how Austin watches his cartoons in the morning:He moved his little chair over next to Finn and sat by him, pushing his swing every so often (even though it goes by itself), saying "it's okay baby Finn" when Finn made a noise and watching TV. It was really cute. Austin might be the best big cousin ever!

The car seat is the key

I have to say, I'm pleasantly surprised and happy that sleeping in the car seat seems to really be working for Finn. Last night he had a tough night, but before that, he was getting up only ONCE a night (compared to every 15-20 minutes)! I can't believe it. Keep in mind, we put him to bed late and he is up ready to eat between 6 and 7am usually, so it isn't 12 hours or anything but still! I'll take it. I think that is pretty good for a 4 week old...which he will be tomorrow for his adjusted age.

I brought the monitor in for a download today. Because of Finn's adjusted age, they changed his low heart rate from 80 bps to 70 bps. Hopefully that will help reduce the number of alarms he has. The nurse will call me today or tomorrow to discuss the results. As I've said before, I'm hoping to be able to get rid of it (probably not quite yet, though), but it is such a huge security blanket, too! In our Infant Massage class yesterday a few of the moms talked about needing to check on their babies often just to make sure they are breathing and okay. I don't have to do that with the monitor, which is so nice. I'll probably be an obsessed freak once the monitor is gone, though! I was also excited at class yesterday because there was a 2 week old and I thought Finn finally wouldn't be the smallest baby there...but as it turned out, they were about exactly the same size! Oh, well.

Jim needed to get a new sport coat for all the business trips he is going on and wanted me to go with for a second opinion (which is funny because I know NOTHING about sports coats or men's business attire, really). So, we went to Ridgedale on Sunday. As it turned out, neither Finn nor I was ready for it. By the time we left, both Finn and I had pretty much lost it (I was exhausted and Finn was beyond fussy and upset). It was a good thing to try out, but all I did was worry about germs and people getting too close and Finn was not happy, so that didn't help. I think we'll have to wait a while longer before trying to transition back into the real world (heck, I knew it was too early, but I go stir crazy some times and wish I have a "normal" baby that can go places!).

My first Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all you new moms, expecting moms, veteran moms, step-moms and of course, my mom. I never fully knew how hard and rewarding being a mom would be.

Finn (okay, Jim really) out did himself for Mother's Day. We hadn't really talked about what I wanted to do or even talked about it at all, so I wasn't expecting much. Jim has been traveling so much, I figured it was the last thing on his mind. At Preemie Class on Thursday night, they asked what our Mother's Day plans were and I said we celebrated with my mom on Wednesday night (because she was in town) and I didn't know anything else. One mom said she learned to tell her husband exactly what she wanted/expected so she wasn't disappointed. So it got me thinking...what did I expect? When I really thought about it, nothing. I am so happy and grateful to have Finn in my life, just having a reason to have Mother's Day is really, honestly enough for me. This surprised me because I usually love this kind of thing.

Well, I didn't have to worry or think about it, as it turned out. Finn had flowers and a balloon delivered on Saturday with a card that said, "You are the best mommy ever. Love Finn" So cute. And Jim made me my favorite tuna burger for dinner. I thought this was it and I was so pleasantly surprised and happy. But no, there was more. There was a card and Juut Spa gift certificate waiting for me when I got home from church (I can't wait for a facial...my fav). They were from Finn and Jim and the card talked about my first mother's day (Becky, Pete and Austin also got me the SAME card...too funny! I loved it just the same). And Jim made me, Becky and Austin a fabulous breakfast/brunch of quiche and cinnamon rolls and an adult beverage of orange juice, grenadine, ginger ale and vodka (Austin's was a kiddie version, obviously!). I highly recommend it! And now he is making my absolute favorite thing in the world...crab legs! Plus, I know he will crack them for me, which makes them taste even better. He is honestly the best.

I hope that all of you have just as fabulous a Mother's Day as I did. Happy Mother's Day!!

Sleep...finally!

Finn slept last night! There are three things that were different than normal. #1. I kept him doped up on Tylenol because of his immunization shots yesterday. #2. I shut off the baby monitor in my room. I was hearing every little cough and grunt. I mean, his room is across the hall and we leave both doors open. I think I'll hear him if he needs me (and I'd certainly hear his monitor!). #3. I had him sleep in his car sear! Okay, before you freak out, I wasn't too sure about doing this either. I saw on a TV show that a family did that with their baby when he wouldn't sleep in his crib. So, it got me thinking. Then last night, I asked about it at our Preemie class and the facilitator said it was okay as long as he passed his car seat test at the hospital (which he did with flying colors!) and we kept him buckled in to avoid a strangling hazard with the straps (which we always do anyway). So I thought I'd try it. Jim was still out of town and I was on my own.

I fed him around 8pm and he was so tired (I'm assuming from the shots and the subsequent fussiness) that I put him to bed. I went to bed between 10 and 10:30, knowing he would wake me up around 11pm (he usually eats every three hours). Well, I woke up around 1am! I changed him and fed him and he went right back to sleep. Only to wake me up a little before 6am! You have to understand, he NEVER goes this long, especially without a pacifier, which he didn't have most of the night. I had to go in and get him at 7:30 because he was fussy, but I just brought him in my bed at that point and we slept until 9am. If all nights could be like this, life would be so much less fuzzy (since I'm tired most of the time!). Now, it is only a sampling of one night and like I said, it could have been from the Tylenol or me not hearing him all the time from his baby monitor and not just the car seat...but I'll take it and hope for more nights like that! Dad gets home tonight, so I'll have to deal with snoring, too!

My friend Amanda and her two kids, Taylor and Gavin, came over for a little bit this morning. It was good to see them and I know Taylor, who is 5, has been looking forward to meeting baby Finn. She even got to hold him for a while. It was really good to catch up with Amanda. For now, we are both stay-at-home moms, so hopefully we can do it on a regular basis!

4 month well child appt

Finn had his 4 month well-child appointment today. He weighs 7 pounds 4.5 ounces and is 19.5 inches long! I couldn't believe his length. He has grown 5.5" since he was born 4 months ago. Yikes! His weight is okay. If he were gaining 1 ounce per day, he would have weighed 7 lbs 5 oz...but he pooped just before getting weighed...I'm sure that was half an ounce! He is still right around the 7 or 8 percentile for weight...which isn't necessarily bad. As long as he continues at a steady pace, his doctor is happy. Going down in percentile at this point or not gaining weight would not be good.

He also got his 4 month immunization shots (three total)! Poor guy...it just about broke my heart. For the first time, he had real tears and everything! He also had to get blood drawn to check different levels, including his iron. We are really hoping his iron is such that we can discontinue his iron supplement (should help with his pooping problems!). Plus, the formula he gets three times a day is iron fortified, so maybe that will be enough. Here are Finn's "battle wounds" from today:Three blue camouflage for his immunizations and one Garfield on his arm for his labs. He was pretty upset for the rest of the day. I was not shy about giving him Tylenol, but he was fussy. He is in bed now, which is really early for him. I think he wore himself out.

We also went to in for his post-op follow up appointment for his hernia surgery. Dr. Rich said that everything looks great. He reminded me that there is a higher percentage of reoccurrence because of how small he was when he had surgery, but to just watch for unusual swelling, especially when he is mad. This is also something Finn's regular doctor will check for during our regular visits.

Grandma left this afternoon. Both Finn and I were sad, but I think Finn wore her out a little bit (and I probably took advantage for having her here, too...I'll take sleep any way I can get it!). It was so helpful having another pair of hands and arms for cuddling Finn! Hopefully she will come back soon!

Rolling over already?

Finn rolled over yesterday, much to my surprise. I put him on his tummy on the couch when I ran to the kitchen to grab his bottle and when I looked over my shoulder, this is what I saw! I was amazed and a little scared. I guess no more putting him on the couch for a second or two! I even put his legs out to the side, so he wouldn't roll over. He is too smart for me already. I don't think he knew what he was doing and I'm not even sure it was intentional, but still! He has been close to rolling over before, when he is mad about something, but never actually did it.

Finn is four months old today (three weeks old adjusted age). My how time flies, and I'm sure it will only speed up. I can't believe Jim and I made another human being...especially one as cute as Finn! I don't even really remember what things were like four months ago...I think I was in a fog or auto pilot. Yesterday, I looked at the picture of the first time I held him, and I don't even feel like it happened...or maybe that is happened to somebody else. Very weird. He is doing so incredibly well, so much better than we ever dared hope when I went into the hospital after Christmas. I can't wait to see what the next four months brings.

Also, thank heaven for grandmas! Since Jim is gone this week, my mom came to visit for a few days and I am so incredibly thankful. I still got up four times last night (to either feed Finn or pump), but she got up with Finn when he was fussy! I slept in until 10:20am! Awesome. This is what I saw when I got up:I guess he wears everybody out...not just me! So cute, though. She will be here tonight, too. I hope my body doesn't get used to the extra sleep! I only wish you could put sleep on reserve to use it later.

Bye bye Nana and Papa

Well, Nana and Papa left last night (after making us a wonderful dinner with Kelsie's help!). Actually they left this morning, but they left from John and Kelsie's, so we didn't get to see them today. It was so wonderful getting to spend so much time with them and I KNOW they loved getting to meet and spend time with Finn. It was really sad for everybody when they left. It is hard when they live so far away (Washington state). But, they come back once a year and when Finn is allowed to fly, I'm sure we will be going out there for visits, too!

Finn had his Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) assessment today provided by Minneapolis Public Schools. An ECSE teacher and a school nurse came out and asked a lot of questions. Of course, Finn fell asleep pretty much as soon as they got here, so they weren't able to do much assessing by watching him (I tried waking him up, that did NOT work...I got the evil eye) so I had to answer as best I could. They will be assessing him based on his adjusted age, not chronological. And based on that, they said he is doing really well right now. They will take the information they gathered today and write a report/plan for Finn. The teacher will be coming back next week to present that to me. It is very reassuring knowing there is so much that can be done if something is needed in the future (language, social, physical, etc).

Sweetest smile ever

After lots of failed attempts, I finally caught Finn smiling with my camera.There is just something about a baby's gummy smile that lights up their whole face. It is irresistible. He is smiling much more, but not quite on command yet. I know it is such a small milestone, but it just about melts a mom's heart! He is making a lot more eye contact now and interacting with those around him. He stops and looks and listens to the mobile when we wind it, which is something he wasn't doing before. It won't be long now before he is actually playing.

The home health nurse stopped by today and Finn has reached the 7 pound mark! I just can't believe it. This morning, he weighed 7 lb 2 oz. Based on babies gaining 1 oz a day, that is exactly what he should weigh from the last time he was weighed, so I feel much better about the weight concerns we had last week and the week before. We have his 4 month well-child appointment on Thursday, so I'm sure I'll have more to update then.

Jim left today for a business trip for all week! Poor me (ha, ha). But I convince (it wasn't hard!) my mom to come this week instead of next week, so she can help me out a little bit. It isn't that I couldn't do it myself, but if there is help available, why not take it?!?!

Ron and Lynn decided to come up for the weekend when they heard how much fun we were having with Nana and Papa! They came Saturday and left Sunday. It was nice to have everybody here. Nana did make Monster Bars and John didn't even eat them all. In fact, I think I got to keep more than he did! She also made veggie pizza for Kelsie. I haven't stepped on the scale since they got here and I think I'll wait a few days until after they leave! I never go hungry when we spend time with Nana and Papa, that is for sure!

Finn's biggest fan from Ohio, my friend Paula, is coming to meet him tomorrow and I can't wait! I worked with her when I worked for Gander Mountain. She has meetings there tomorrow and is extending her trip one day to make time for us. So thoughtful. Can't wait to show off my baby and catch up!

Great Grandparents and ice cream

Jim's grandparents, Nana and Papa, arrived yesterday from Washington state. They drove the whole way and ran into some pretty bad winter weather in Montana...isn't it May?!?! They finally got to meet Finn and I don't think they were disappointed. Uncle John came over for dinner and more importantly brought his ice cream maker (auntie Kelsie had to work...boo, hoo)! Making ice cream is kind of a tradition with Papa and and Jim. We decided to make peppermint ice cream last night (saving the vanilla to make tonight). If you don't mind me stealing a phrase from Rachel Ray...Yum-O! Nana promised to make Monster Bars for John and me (are you jealous Sasha?!?!) and also get her homemade hot fudge recipe for the vanilla ice cream tonight. I can't wait. I think they are planning on staying until Monday or Tuesday next week...I hope I don't gain 15 pounds while they are here!

My milk seems to be coming in a little bit, which is a huge relief. I'm still not getting a ton when I pump, but more than I was. I miss being able to sleep through the nighttime feeding when Jim gives Finn a bottle...but it is worth it. Finn's doctor said some day we will be able to sleep for 8 hours straight again...what is that like?!?! Ha, ha.

We are now positive Finn smiled. While we weren't for sure about the first time, we are about the second time. We were getting ready to go to Preemie Class on Thursday night and Jim was holding Finn up to his face and saying, "A-boo" to him and he smiled! Finn likes it. So cute. Of course, haven't been able to catch him smiling on camera yet...I tried yesterday (that is where the extreme close up came from if you look at our picture website!), but no luck. I'll get it eventually.

Cooing and smiling

Two things before I forget them. Finn cooed. I don't know when babies are supposed to start actually cooing instead of just grunting and making noise, but he did it twice. It was so cute. I was holding him on Tuesday night and he made some noise with his voice. Jim asked what "cooing" was, not really getting the difference. It is a small thing, but so fun to hear!

And Finn smiled. Okay, I can't guarantee it was an genuine smile, but it sure seemed to be. I was holding him Monday night (I think) and making noises and faces at him. All of a sudden he took a big breath in and made the biggest smile. I looked at Jim and he saw it too. I was like...was that a smile? Jim said he wasn't sure, but even if it was gas, but made our night. There seemed to be more purpose behind it than when it is gas. Of course, it was too fleeting to get a picture. Darn.

Our baby is growing up already. It is really hard for us to know when Finn is or should be doing things. The ECFE facilitator said that preemies can do some developmental things at their true age and some at their adjusted age. So, it will be a guessing game...but than isn't that what parenthood is anyway?!?!

What we learned from the Dr appt

Finn's doctor appointment went really well today. He was 6 lbs 13 oz, so that was a nice improvement (I guessed 6 lbs 13.5 oz this morning before we left!). Jim and I obviously had a lot of questions about what happened regarding Finn's weight over the last week. The bottom line is that his doctor isn't concerned necessarily about what percentage he is at...just that he maintains or increases that percentage and certainly doesn't lose any weight at any point. Does that make sense? So it doesn't matter than he is at 7% as long as he continues to trend at the same or better. She said that full term newborns gain about an ounce a day, I think (seems like a lot, but my perception is out of whack).

I talked to her about my milk supply and pumping. Basically, she said there isn't any product out there what will artificially increase my supply (even though they claim they will). She said to pump every time Finn gets a bottle and that should keep my body regularly producing milk. I'd been pretty down because I've been getting so little (between 10 and 30 ml total each time), but then this afternoon I got 60ml! I'm hoping it is a trend. She said I'm not selfish for wanting to continue nursing him because it is the best thing for both of us. But if I were to have to quit, he would still get breast milk, so that is still good.

Because there was a case of the swine flu in Cold Springs and Austin was in that area for three days over the weekend AND because we were all so sick, we asked Finn's doctor a little bit about it. The swine flu is a respirator flu, not intestinal. We has the intestinal flu. She said Finn will most likely not get the flu we had because of the antibodies in my milk. Yeah, one less thing to worry about. If he did, we'd have to bring him straight to the hospital, so hopefully it doesn't come to that. She said not to even worry about the possibility of the swine flu. We are already washing hands and being careful, so it isn't a huge threat. I personally don't get the big hype with the whole swine flu thing. I mean, at this point, seriously!

Finn's doctor ordered more home health nurse visits (our insurance only covered the first three without doctor's instruction). The purpose is to keep a close eye on him (especially his weight obviously) without having to go to the doctor office all the time. He has his four month well-child appointment next Thursday (can he be four months already?), so I think I will schedule her to come on Monday (half way between both doctor visits).

Finn's monitor had to be downloaded today, so I went over to Children's after his appointment. I wanted to check in on my friend Becky and the girls, but she was busy feeding one of them, so it didn't work. Plus, I wasn't sure how it would work since Finn was with me and he can't go in to the ICC. Oh, well, Maybe next time. I did get to see Finn's ICC nurse Joann, though! She happened to be working and came out to see little Finn. She said how big he is getting, of course. It was good to see her. Seems like a life time ago already!

Recovering slowly

I think it is safe to life the quarantine flag outside our house! We are definitely recovering. I was still a little under that weather yesterday and just had to take it slow. I feel much better today and actually had the strength to take a shower (you KNOW you're better then!). Jim seemed to be better, but today is a little queasy again. It must take a little while to get over.

We are on our way to the doctor's this afternoon. Hopefully to figure some thing out about Finn's weight gain, or the lack there of. Also, hopefully I can talk to somebody about my milk production. I've been pumping for three days and nothing has happened. I think it can take longer, but I just want to be sure I'm doing whatever I need to do to get it to come back. Maybe she can refer me to a lactation consultant or something.

Anyway, that's all for now. I'll update after the doctor's visit.

Sick as a dog

Where did that phrase come from anyway? Weird when you think about it. I think we needed a quarantine flag outside our house yesterday. All three of us (me, Jim and Becky...thankfully not Finn) were sick yesterday. And not just sick, but SICK! It started with me around 5am and we all went to bed last night still not feeling well. I think Jim was hit the hardest and is taking the longest to get over it. Yuck. I'm so glad for two things: 1. Finn is little enough that laying in bed with mom and dad all day is fine with him and 2. Auntie NaeNae came over in the afternoon and stayed over night so she could watch Finn and get him out of bed for a while (even changed a poopy diaper!). We are on the up swing today, but yesterday was touch and go!

I started pumping again. Finn just wasn't getting enough from me, so we are hoping that by me pumping after he eats every time will tell my body to make more milk. I'm only getting around 25 ml total when I pump (less than 1 oz), but hopefully he got a lot when he ate and hopefully it will start to increase. I don't mind, but now it seems all I do is clean bottles/pumping parts, feed Finn or pump! Oh, the life of a mom!

Finn likes medium, not slow

We got some medium flow nipples yesterday and I think they might be magic! Last night Finn ate 60 ml without stopping in about 10 minutes. Now, that isn't the best for him either, but my point is that he ate it all without any fighting! Jim said he ate 70 ml this morning, with a little coxing. I'm really hoping we've turned the corner and Finn will be eating enough of fortified bottles to gain adequate weight.

The other thing is that he seemed to be starving all of last night. He wanted to eat from 1am - 5:30am (yeah, again no sleep for mom...oh, well!). I don't know what his deal is...maybe he isn't getting enough from me or isn't sucking hard enough (not likely) or something. Anyway, at least he is eating. I will be very interested to see what his weight is next week (and see it on the weight chart, too).

Have you seen the Huggies commercial where the baby boy is peeing all over the room and then dad put a Huggies on him? Well, Finn practically did that yesterday! I was just thinking how he hasn't peed on me in a while and then I looked away to get a wipe and felt something on my hand. I looked over and there was a solid stream going all over the place (on him, the changing pad, his clothes, the rug and carpet, etc!). I couldn't believe it. It made me laugh because the first thing I thought of was the commercial!

Better solution for eating

Jim talked to our doctor last night. Jim plotted Finn's weight gain on the preemie chart they gave us and he was concerned that Finn had been trending in this direction for several weeks and nothing was mentioned at either of our appointments. The first thing that my doctor said was that this isn't a "serious" issue, but one that needs to be monitored closely. So, I don't know how her assistant miscommunicated that to me, but right there, I felt a little better.

I talked with the nutritionist, Dixie, at Children's this morning and am now feeling better about Finn's weight situation. She really listened to me, which I felt was the problem with his regular doctor (or rather the person who I talked to who relayed the message from his regular doctor). Anyway, Dixie agreed that going to 4 bottles a day isn't probably the best solution (given that I want to keep breastfeeding and that is what is ultimately best for Finn). So, we are going to switch Finn to a medium flow nipple first to see if he is able to get more when he eats. He currently uses a slow flow and it seems like he sucks and sucks and doesn't get very much. Hopefully this solves the problem. Finn should be getting around 60 ml (2 oz) at each feeding and we are lucky if he takes 40ml.

If that doesn't really work, then Dixie suggested going to 26 calorie fortifier instead of just 24 cal after a few days of using the medium flow. At least then he will get more nutrition, even if he is only taking 40 ml each time. Hopefully one of these solutions will work and Finn will have gained significant weight by his doctor appointment next week.

Finn's (non) weight gain

Okay, so I couldn't wait until our next doctor appointment to talk to Finn's doctor about his weight issue, so I called and left a message last night. They called me back today with not so good news. It apparently is a lot more serious than the home health nurse let on. He had been trending in the 30th percentile for weight gain (adjusted age), but now is in the 7th percentile. So we have a doctor appointment next week (instead of waiting for two weeks until his 4 month well-child appt). In the meantime, we have to increase his bottling to four bottles a day so he gets the extra calories from the fortifier we have to add to my breast milk.

I'm really actually upset. My milk already seems to be decreasing (which might explain why he isn't gaining weight...if I don't have enough for him) and if we go to 4 bottles a day, that means every other time he eats will be from a bottle. That probably means that either I let my milk stop or I have to go back to pumping every 6 hours (with a baby to care for, that doesn't seem practical). I'm sure we will figure this out, but right now, I just feel like we figure one thing out (getting him to poop regularly) and then another things comes up (two steps forward, one step back). I know parenting is like that with any child, but with Finn it is just a little more critical. I just want him to be okay and to get big. And I want to keep breast feeding him. Is that selfish? Am I wrong to be upset that I may have to stop? It is the one thing I wanted so badly when all this happened with Finn and my one thing that was "normal." I'll be fine. Like I said, I'm just a little upset right now. We'll obviously know more next week and I think I'm going to call the nutritionist at Children's and talk to her about it.

ROP is on the way out

Finn had an eye appointment yesterday. After waiting over an hour (don't even ask!), I stayed in for the exam this time. It was a lot harder on me to leave like we did last time because then I can just hear my baby screaming and not do anything about it. As it turned out, my imagination was far worse than reality. He cried a lot again, but since I could see what was going on, it didn't seem as bad as before. Plus, then I could pick him up immediately when the exam was over to comfort him. The doctor had good news. The ROP is still there (not the good news!), but it has greatly improved and he believes we are beyond the point where it could cause him major problems like blindness! Yeah! We have another exam in four weeks because it has to be closely monitored until it is completely gone. I asked what long term effects having ROP might have on Finn and the doctor said most babies with ROP are near sighted and eventually might need glasses (which, with Jim for his dad, Finn was bound to need glasses anyway!) and lazy eye is more common as well. Both things they will continue to watch for and we'll cross those bridges when we get to them.

Finn's home health nurse came this afternoon for her last visit. Insurance would only allow three visits total. I liked having her come, so that is a little sad (just reassuring to have somebody check on Finn in between doctor appointments). She did her usual thing and weighed him (6 lbs 7.5 oz) and measured him and took his temperature. We talked about any issues he is having and she tried to give suggestions on a few things. She commented that Finn is not gaining weight as fast as they would like him to. She said it isn't alarming yet, but something we need to watch very closely. I was surprised by that because I felt he was getting plenty to eat, even if he doesn't eat well each time. I asked if there was anything we had to do right away. She said that he should be fine until our next doctor appointment, but to be sure to talk to his doctor about it. Argh...hopefully he was just having a skinny day (you know, like how women have fat days?!?!). Hopefully it is nothing.

Oh, and today was the first officialy day for Finn with no caffeine. There was more in the bottle than I thought because I thought we would run out on Sunday. So far so good. He has been a little fussier than normal today and the home health nurse said it could be withdrawal (just like we would be if we stopped drinking coffee or something). Interesting. No spells or alarms, so my fingers are crossed that continues!

Finn's 3 month pics

Okay, if you're interested, here is how you can take a peek at Finn's 3 months pictures:

1) Go to www.jessicahislop.com and click on "proofing"

username: Thomas
password: finn3months (you just need this to log in)

2) Select a gallery (Finn's is the only one that will show up)

3) Go through your slideshow.

If you find a picture or two you can't live without, please feel free to place your own order (as small as one picture or as large as you want!). Just type in the "special message" area who you are so we can keep the orders separate. All the pricing is listed when you "add to cart" and also on her website under "pricing" (go figure!). They will be available online until 4/30/09, so take a look now before you forget! Please let me know if you have any questions.

I have no idea what we are going to order. Maybe the proofs of each picture, so we have them all. Argh! The trials and tribulations of having an adorable son! (hee, hee)

Oh and here is the picture of Jim and Finn that I love (I obviously took it, not Jessica!):

There's two Finnegans?

Finn and I had our first Infant Massage class yesterday. We actually didn't do a lot of massaging, which was a little disappointing, but there was a lot of discussion amongst the moms, so that was very good. The facilitator gave me some instruction sheets on how to do the massage, so if I practice them before next time, I will be able to do the massage while we discuss parenting issues. This class is not geared just toward preemies, so that was a little different. They all wanted to know all the details and asked a lot of questions, which I don't mind. I'm a little nervous about going in the future, however, because these babies are full term and their parents aren't concerned about germs like they were in the preemie class (one of the babies was getting over an ear infection and had a cough). I don't know...it is so hard to know what is okay and how careful we need to be. I just did not bring Finn by that baby.

Small world: one of the babies in the class is names Finnegan...okay, two babies if you count our Finnegan! Here, I thought we picked an unusual enough name for that not to happen. What is even weirder is a couple months ago at church during announcements, they say who is getting baptized that week and they said the baby's name was Finnegan something. So, because this class is very close to our home and church, I asked the mom if they go to my church...and they do and that was the same baby! Such a small world. I mean, with all the people and churches in Minneapolis, what are the chances?!?!

Finn is doing much better at night. He isn't nearly as fussing as he had been (I think it is because he is going poop regularly now!). He still thinks he needs to wake up and eat every 2 hours, but that is far better than needing his pacifier every 20 minutes! And last night he seemed to be able to go about 2.5 hours between feedings, so I think he is slowly "getting it." Yeah for mom and sleep!

Going never seemed so good

Looking back, I realize that I talk about Finn's pooping habits a lot. Sorry...but that is what our life revolves around right now! On that note, I think we finally figured out something that works to make Finn poop regularly. I started using Miralax two days ago (upon approval from his doctor) and he went three times yesterday without a suppository! You don't understand how happy this makes me. He is such a happier, more content kid when he poops regularly. He still has gas and when he has to go, it takes a lot out of him...but at least he is going!

My dad came to visit yesterday for a combination of Austin's birthday, my dad's birthday and Easter. Oh, and to see Finn, too, of course! The whole family came over (Kristine, Alex, Jordan, Grace, Renae, Dad and of course Becky, Austin, Pete, Jim, Finn and me). It was nice to spend time all together. Then, Jim had to leave for his flight to Chicago. He is gone until Tuesday. I told him not to gorge himself on pizza!

Oh, I have the cutest picture of Jim and Finn sleeping together, but haven't uploaded it yet. I will try to do that today. Finn's three month pictures are ready and man, did they turn out well. Not sure if I should post the information to log in and view them on here, I'll ask Jessica. She is an amazing photographer. I don't know how she does it, but she catches the little moments that aren't posed, but capture the spirit of her subject. Plug: if you need pictures taken for ANYTHING, you have to contact her (www.jessicahislop.com). I know Finn is cute (duh!), but they turned out beyond our wildest dreams. Thanks again, Jess!! Now we have to narrow it down and order...the hard part!

Blog list

Okay, some how our list of family and friend blogs was deleted. Since we didn't have the addresses listed anywhere else, we're kind of stuck. So, if you have a blog and are a family or friend, please give us your blog address and we'll add it to our list. We want to know what is going on with you and we can't do that if we don't have your blog address. Thanks!

Bye bye caffeine!

I received unexpected and wonderfulnews today! The apnea program from Children's called me today to see how things are going. I told her that we only have about one more day's worth of caffeine left, so she suggested I bring the monitor in to download the data and see how Finn is doing. Well, I did that and she called me this afternoon. He had three fewer apnea (stop breathing) alarms than two weeks ago when it was last downloaded (10 in 11 days compared to 13 in 12 and I know at least 2 of the 10 were false alarms because I was holding him and he was breathing) and his low heart rate alarm went from 100 alarms in 11 days down to 60 in 12! The doctor isn't in today to make a final decision, but based on Finn's improvement, she said to use up the rest of the caffeine we have and unless we hear from her next week, Finn won't need it any more! I'm sure this seems like a small thing, but it is one step closer to getting rid of the monitor and more importantly, one step closer to Finn not NEEDING the monitor. I think they will monitor him for about two weeks once he is off the caffeine just to make sure he is doing okay without it. Then...bye, bye Mr. Monitor!!

Last night Finn and I went to a Parent & Preemie Play & Learn class facilitated by Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE). I didn't know what to expect...heck, I didn't even know anything about it or intend on signing up for it. I was calling to register for an Infant Massage class and the lady was chatty and found out Finn was a preemie and suggested this class, too. It meets every Thursday night from 6-7:30pm. This six week class is designed to inform and support the parents of prematurely born infants. We will learn how to enhance baby’s development through play and meet other parents who share similar experiences. There were three families there last night. It was good to talk to people who understand what we have been through, even if their journey was different. I think I'm going to get a lot out of this class and hopefully Jim can come with us next week.

I did sign up for the Infant Massage class, too, which is on Mondays from 1-3pm. According to the brochure, a parent's gentle touch relaxes baby and they sleep better. Massage helps baby relieve gas [yeah!], and it’s a fun way to interact with baby. This class offers support and education in a relaxed atmosphere with soft music and dim lighting. We will also discuss topics such as sleep patterns, calming methods/techniques, and adjustments to baby. So I'm looking forward to that next week.

Oh, and daddy comes home tonight. Yay! We both missed him.

Sleep is for the weak

If that is true and sleep is for the weak, I must be Hercules. I'm not saying this to complain, just to share my night with all of you. Finn did not sleep last night. When I say that, I don't mean, he didn't sleep very much...I mean AT ALL! Maybe he was missing daddy? I finally brought him into my bed around 2am because I was getting up every 15 minutes to put his pacifier back in and listening to him for five minutes before getting up each time! I was able to get some sleep between 4am and 6am but that was about it. Not sure what was wrong, but he was grunting a lot and moving his body around. That usually means he has gas or needs to poop (or both!). He hasn't pooped today but has lots of toots. I drugged him up with everything we have at 9am, so he should be good to go for a while!

I also suctioned his nose out when we got up. He always sounds stuffy and congested, so I don't usually pay attention to it. But I noticed a little accumulation in his nose, so thought I'd try to get it out. Well, there was more in there than I thought and I was actually able to get a lot out with the bulb suction. Usually we aren't successful when we use it, so that was good. He HATED it (as I'm sure most babies do) but seems much calmer afterward. So, maybe he was having a little problem breathing last night or maybe he just finally wore himself out...not sure. He is sitting in his bouncy seat right now just staring up at the ceiling (with no pacifier), but I think trying not to go to sleep. Little bugger.

We have Preemie class tonight. I have no idea what it is, but I called about taking an Infant Massage class and through talking with the lady, she suggested I go to this class, too. It is every Thursday night from 6-7:30 and is located over by Children's (or at least in that direction). Hopefully Finn is feeling better and I've been able to get a nap in...or I might have to wait until next week!

Happy Due Date!

I have to say, I'm a little melancholy today. I think that is the word I'm thinking of. Because today was my due date, it forces me to think back over the last three months a little bit. Don't get me wrong, as it has turned out, I don't think I would have changed anything...honestly. But still, I should be having Finnegan today. I should be huge and uncomfortable and sick of being pregnant. I should be looking forward to meeting my baby and wondering if the ultrasound was right and he really is a boy...and what he'll look like and be like. Hmmm...how different things could have been. But like I said, I honestly don't think I would change one thing about our journey together so far. Hey, I get three and a half months extra with my baby that most parents don't get. I already KNOW him and his little personality. Still...just a little melancholy. We can now officially (I realize I use "officially" a lot!) start counting Finn's adjusted age. He is zero today!

Fittingly, we had a doctor appointment today. When the doctor walked in she said, well, today is your due date. Just so weird. Little Finnegan is 6 pounds, 3.5 ounces on the day he should have been born. A very respectable weight for any full term baby. I can't imagine how big he would have been if his birthday were today! Our major concern is Finn's constipation. The doctor really wasn't too concerned about it because he hasn't gone more than two days without going (with the help of a suppository, though). She suggested corn syrup and if that doesn't work, Myralax. So, hopefully something will work for the little guy. It sounds like he will be on the caffeine for a few more weeks (darn it!). They will draw labs for his next appointment to check his iron levels. We really hope they are such that he can go off the iron supplement (we think it is the major cause of Finn's constipation). His formula supplement is iron fortified, so hopefully that will be enough to keep him from being anemic (fingers are crossed!). That appointment will be his four month appointment...including shots! Poor guy.

Another first today...Finn actually spit up on me! I realize three months is a long time for this to happen, but he just doesn't spit up that much...and not usually when I breast feed him. Well, daddy is out of town and I'm doing bottle duty, too. Plus, he can be a bugger to burp and I've noticed that if he doesn't get that last burp out, he usually spits up a little bit. He just got a little on the front of my shirt today. I didn't even change after...I wore it like a badge of honor (and I wasn't going any where so who cares?!?!).

Another first...Finn went to the store today! I probably shouldn't have (I know, I know!), but his doctor's office is just across the street from a Michael's and I've been wanting to do a certain craft project for his room (I'll take a picture when I'm done to show you what I'm doing!). I figured of all stores to go to, Michael's probably wouldn't be very busy and certainly not have a lot of kids (i.e. germs). It was my first experience of a normal mom...the cashier commented on how little he was and asked how old. Then I had to explain about why he was so small...it felt "normal". Like if he had been born around now, I'd be taking him out and people would be making those exact same comments. What mom doesn't like talking about her kid for a minute or two? The lady behind me in line heard me say he was a preemie and asked how early he was. Then she said her daughter was born at 26 weeks, too. Small world. The lady in the other lane heard me say his birth weight and she kept asking me, "one pound?" English was not her first language and I think she thought she was misunderstanding me!

I've been slacking on the camera front lately. I was taking pictures every day for so long and now I'm like, "where is my camera, anyway?!?!"

Finn's first walk

Yesterday, Jim, Finn and I went for our first walk as a family (Austin joined us, too!). It was the first time we got to use Finn's amazing stroller. It handles very nicely and the handle bar is high enough that it works for both Jim and me. I was a little tired when Jim suggested it, but we've been wanting to go and Finn's doctor said we could as soon as it was around 50 or 60 degrees outside. It was around 55 yesterday, so we went. I think we are going to be going for a lot of walks this summer! Finn loved it. He shut his eye because of the sun, but was very wide eyed when we had the cover over him. He didn't even mind that it was a little windy.

We want to congratulate our friends Steph and Steve on the birth of their baby girl! Carley Lynn was born on Finn's uncle John's birthday (April 10). How special (hopefully we won't forget that birthday!). She was two and a half weeks early, but is home and doing well. You guys will be amazing parents! Congratulations.

Just mommy and Finn today

Today is Finn and my first day alone together for all day. It is nice (and quiet...we need Austin around!). We stayed upstairs in my bedroom for all of the morning. He was sleeping on daddy's side of the bed and looked so small in our huge bed! It was easier for me to get ready for the day having him in my room with me. Plus, so far he really likes being in the bathroom when I take a shower...does he like a mini steam facial perhaps? I think it is the noise, too.

We had a good weekend, too. Saturday at my sister Kristine's house went really well. It might have been a little tight if it weren't for the gorgeous weather. Then on Sunday we had a few people over (uncle John, Auntie Kelsie, Pete and his parents, DeAnn and Les, and my aunt Karen and her family) and watched the Master's golf tournament (fun, fun...okay, it wasn't as bad as it sounds!). Oh and Becky made Molten Lava cakes for dessert...OMG to die for! I said Finn would have his Easter outfit on yesterday and he did:These are the ears that Austin had when he was in the NICU right after he was born. You can't see the bunny feet and the cotton tail. The outfit was too big, but they didn't have an extra small. We forgot to take his picture in an Easter basket so we might do that tonight when Austin gets home.

Finn is still having constipation issues. While it doesn't say so on the bottle, we were wondering if the Mylicon drops could be making it worse, so we took him off them yesterday. He needed a suppository last night and did end up going (yeah!). This morning he went without any assistance, so that made mommy really happy. Oh, the joys of being a parent and obsessing about your child's poop! If you don't have kids, you just wait!!!

Daddy has his first over night business trip since Finn has been home later this week. I'm sure it will be fine...just no help at night for mommy!

Did you get your taxes done yet? Don't forget!

Finn got shot yesterday

Finn had his first official photo shoot yesterday! Our friend Jessica came over to take his three month pictures. Okay, I knew he was cute (I mean, EVERYBODY says so!), but these are going to be beyond cute! She is really good. She thought it would take about a week to get them posted online. I honestly can't wait! Not sure how/if we will be able to narrow them down.

Jim and I went out for dinner last night and Auntie Becca and Pete watched Finn. It was uncle John's birthday, so we (plus auntie Kelsie) went to Dave and Busters. Okay, honestly, I was not looking forward to going. I don't like playing those kind of games (it is like a restaurant and adult Chuck E Cheese)...but ended up having a total blast! Jim and John are completely obsessed with these kinds of games. I have a feeling we'll be back! Finn was sleeping on auntie Becca's chest when we got home...I'm pretty sure he wasn't put down the whole time we were gone (which he loves, so who cares?!?!)!

Today my sisters and I are hosting the Smith family Easter at Kristine's house. It doesn't sound like a big deal, but at last count, there were going to be over 40 people there! Yikes. At least the weather is supposed to be really nice today so people (and the kids!) can be outside. We decided that it would be best for Finn's health for him not to go. It was a hard decision (hello, I want to show off my baby and my relatives want to meet him!), but with so many people, it would be very difficult to enforce the hand washing policy and no touching his face, etc (not to mention germs in general). So daddy and Finn are staying home today. I think uncle John is coming over to hang out, so I'm sure the three of them will have fun together.

Also, thanks to my mom for coming to help me/us out this week. We (okay, she) got a lot done, which helps out a ton (I didn't have to do dishes for three days straight!). Plus, she got a lot of Finn time, which I know she loved. Next week will be Finn and my first time alone together (well, I mean with nobody visiting during the day). I probably won't get anything done, as I tend to just sit on the couch and hold him. I guess that is fine for now!

Happy Easter to everybody. We hope you all have a wonderful day and are able to spend it with your loved ones. Travel safely!

We left Finn

Finn had his first baby sitter! (it's not like we left him somewhere...what kind of parents do you think we are?!?! ha, ha) Jim and I had an appointment today after work so my mom stayed home with Finn (we had to twist her arm and beg her...yeah right!). It felt weird leaving him, but it also felt like old times when Jim and I would run errands together. We'll be able to do that again once Finn is bigger and the risk of infection/sickness isn't so high.

Finn is doing well. He still has problems with gas and constipation. We decided to take him off the Zantac because his acid reflux doesn't seem severe and we think the Zantac was causing some of the constipation. Who knows?!?! I talked with his nutritionist at Children's this morning and she said we could slowly up the amount he is getting of prune juice, so hopefully that will help, too. He was so uncomfortable all of last night (all three of us didn't sleep much!) and this morning, that I finally broke down and gave him some Tylenol. Wow, what a different kid after that! I don't believe in drugging your children just to make taking care of them easier, but this clearly was a case of him needing it to relax and calm down. Maybe we'll try some around bed time, too so we can get a little bit of sleep tonight!

I have definitely turned into a "real" mom. I received some baby coupons in the mail for Target. So we stopped there after our appointment to get a few things and to use the coupons. You have to understand that I always intend to use coupons, but either forget them at home or forget to give them to the cashier when I check out (am I the only one who does that?!?!). Well, I guess when it is for Finn, I do neither! So, we bought our first package of wipes (2 actually) and diapers! We don't need either right now, but hey, we had a coupon and know we would use them. How long do you think 800 wipes will last?!?! I guess I am the perfect consumer for the marketers at Target!

We colored Easter eggs last night! My mom was already here and Auntie Kristine came over. It was a lot of fun. Last year, Austin wasn't too sure what was going on other than just wanting to put all the eggs in the dye at the same time. This year, he knew how to do it and made one for everybody (even Auntie NaeNae who wasn't here)! So cute. Finn even put on his so very cute Easter outfit (he'll be sporting it again on Easter of course).

Cuddly baby

Finn and I had a good day together. He is still having constipation and gas issues, so he was pretty cuddly today...which I don't obviously mind. I just didn't get anything done. Ah, it can wait. I ordered some of the Gripe Water today, so we can give that a try when it gets here.

Today was daddy's first day back to work. He has to work late (of course!), so I'm not sure how it went. Probably not good. Jim told me this morning that I should go to work for him so he could stay home with Finn! Um, I don't think his boss would appreciate that very much ;)

We are trying to remember to video tape Finn on this month anniversaries every month. So yesterday was his 3 month mark so we video taped his bath. I figured that would be better than video taping him sleeping or something! Here is a cute picture of "naked baby" (look at that beautiful double chin!):
Other than that, a pretty slow day. Memere and Grandpa Ron were here Sunday night through this morning, so they got plenty of Finn time. I think Becky will be happy to get her Finn fix tonight! It is so hard to share him since he is so darn cute and cuddly. Grandma Kathy is coming tomorrow to spend a few days with Finn and me. That will be nice and maybe I (okay SHE) can get some things done!

3 months and 6 pounds

Well, our little guy is 3 months old today. I don't think that has really sunk in for me. He is still so small and has so much growing to do. Somebody pointed out that he was 5 pounds and 3 months old a week ago and that really hit me. I mean, aren't most 3 month olds double that weight?!?! Then, the proper perspective tells me that he is still negative one and a half weeks!

And the home health nurse stopped by today and weighed Finn. He is officially 6 pounds! 6 pounds 1/2 ounce to be exact. While it is still small, I feel like anything over 6 pounds is a "normal" newborn weight. And I was glad to see that he is gaining weight (he still doesn't always like to eat very well, especially from the bottle). We need to talk to his nutritionist at Children's because we think he doesn't like the NeoSure formula we have to fortify my milk with. Who knew babies could be so particular (like father like son!).

We talked to the nurse about Finn's gas and constipation issues (that has developed over the last couple of days...fun!). She gave us some tips and told us it was okay to use Tylenol as needed. We think the caffeine he is on is also contributing to the problem, but he still needs that to remind him to breathe, especially when he is eating. She also said that most of these issues go away once a baby is around 10 pounds! Yikes...that might be a while considering he has gained a little over 4 pounds since birth and needs to gain another 4 pounds to reach 10 pounds! Hopefully it won't take another three months! Eat, baby eat!

I wasn't feeling well this morning (those darn migraines!) and we had a few things going on today, so Jim decided to take one more day off for paternity leave. I'm not sure what we are going to do tomorrow when daddy actually goes back to work (or what HE will do all day without Finn!). It will be interesting for sure. It will be nice to get into a routine as well.

Dance recital, birthday party and gas!

We had a busy Saturday. It started out with my god daughter Emma's dance recital. She is 5, so obviously it was adorable. I swear she is going to be an actress when she grows up!

Then we had Austin's birthday party. I still can't believe he is three already! We decided that it was best for Finn to stay home with daddy, even though it was a hard decision. There is just no way for a Chuck E Cheese to be clean and germ free with a million kids running around! I know Jim was bummed to miss the party and the opportunity to play at Chuck E Cheese, but there is always next year! Plus, we had Austin open his presents from us when we got home, so that was a special time. We got him a big boy (not fully regulation sized, though) basketball hoop for outside! I'm not sure if it was for Austin or Jim....hmmmm! I'm sure it will get put to good use!

I HAVE to show you Austin's birthday cake:My sister Kristine made that! It totally looks professional. She is so good at making really cute cakes. She made my baby shower cake that looked like a cute, fat baby and she made Austin's cakes for his other two birthdays (a basketball and a baseball!). Note: black frosting makes for very interesting eating! It stains everything!

I hate having to leave Finn at home for these events, but there really isn't any other option. We are trying to decide if we can take him with us to church on Sunday for Easter service. The potential for him getting sick or an infection is so high, that we really have to decide what is worth it or not. Argh. This is just another thing we'll have to deal with for the next year. It could be far worse!

Finn is doing really well. He still has moderate to severe bouts with gas, but the Mylicon drops seem to be helping with that most of the time. Our friend Holly suggested Gripe Water, so I think I'll get some of that when the Mylicon drops are gone. It is all natural, so it can't hurt to try it! The Zantac really seems to help with his acid reflux...doesn't seem to be a problem any more and the spitting up is practially nonexistant.

Nice and quiet

Today was a quieter day than yesterday. Finn kept daddy up pretty much all night. So mommy kept Finn busy all morning and daddy slept in until 2:30! We got some cuddle time and he helped me while I was on the computer (I didn't know I could type with one hand as quickly as I did!). Now daddy is picking some stuff up at Target (yeah for gas drops!) and getting an oil change for mommy's car. What a guy!

So, the breastfeeding/pumping thing is going MUCH better. When we first came home, I was in considerable pain because Finn wasn't eating enough to give me relief plus his three bottles a day limited how much I could feed him anyway. However, yesterday I only had to pump twice (once I pumped until they were empty because they were still hard!) and today I haven't had to pump at all! I think that means my milk supply is adjusting to Finn's needs (I hope so and not just that it is going away completely!). I over think everything, can you tell? Now that I'm not pumping (regularly at least), hopefully we can start to get rid of some of our milk supply in the freezer!

Auntie Kelsie and uncle John came over to spend some time with Finn and have dinner last night. Auntie Kelsie jumped right in to hold Finn (what woman wouldn't, right?!?!), but uncle John was a little more hesitant (very much like daddy is with babies). Eventually, John decided he wouldn't cause Finn any harm by holding him just on his legs. By the end of the evening, John was a natural and was cuddling with Finn on his chest. I'm so glad he decided to hold him because it was very cute to see them together.

Not much else going on today. Another migraine day for me. It is frustrating because I asked my doctor again yesterday to double check if I could take my migraine medicine and she still said no (I was hoping some crazy new research has suddenly surfaced telling her otherwise or something!). And today, the Aleve and ibuprofen are not cutting it. Ugh. Just another day!

Lots going on today

Today was kind of busy, but not in a bad way. Finn was a little out of sorts over night and this morning, which meant mommy didn't get much sleep. It wasn't bad, but he just needed some attention and was grunting and seemed in pain. It was probably gas, but there isn't much we can do.

Then mommy headed to Children's hospital! I know...why would I go there when I don't HAVE to?!?! My friend Becky's little girl was having a PDA ligation (the same heart surgery Finn had) and I wanted to be there for support. Unfortunately, her surgery was about the same time as Finn's doctor appointment, so I couldn't be there while it was going on. Darn it. But she promised to send an update as soon as she had time.

Then I had to head back home to pick up my boys for Finn's first doctor appointment. When I got home, Finn was agitated and Jim said he had hardly eaten anything when he fed him (we thought maybe a gassy tummy). So we went to the appointment and got roomed right away to avoid any germs in the waiting room (all these things you never had to think about before you had a preemie!). They weighed and measured him (5 lb 15 oz, 18.5") and checked him out all over.

We had been putting together a list of questions and concerns we had, so we went over them. One was the gas issue, which we know is a very common problem with any baby, but wanted to know if there was anything we could do. She suggested the Mylicon gas drops, so we need to get some of them. Hopefully that will help. She also suggested tummy rubs, which we were already doing. She also gave him a prescription for Zantac for his acid reflux. It isn't terribly bad right now, but we want to prevent it from getting worse (it is nothing like my cousin Erica's was and I hope it doesn't get that bad!!). She also gave us some tips to try to get his nights and days switched around. Hopefully they will work! We have a follow up appointment in two weeks (we need to keep a close eye on his weight).

Then Auntie Kristine was at our house when we got back. She took the afternoon off...no, not to spend time with Finn, but that was a convenient side effect! Uncle John and auntie Kelsie are on their way over for dinner and some Finn time. Should be fun!

Finn is 38 weeks gestational age today, which means he SHOULD have been born in two weeks. Crazy to think about. He turns three months on Monday, already. Again, that is crazy to me.