Where does the time go?

I cant believe my little boy is just over 6 weeks old and it has been almost three weeks since we lost my dad. I feel like such a slacker because I haven't updated in awhile. Life has been a little  crazy. We had my father's memorial service on Sunday. It was an incredible turn out. My father was such a wonderful man. I learned some things about him I did not know. For instance he was a deacon in the Church of the Ladder Day Saints. Who knew? He had a mouth like a sailor LOL! I also knew he had some lifelong friends but I had no idea how life long. One of his friends made a speech and said they had been friends since they were three years old. My dad was also a pack rat. He saved a receipt from  car repairs he had done in 1986 for a car he had not owned for several years, among other things. I loved him very much and am going to miss him more than words can say.

As for Derek, he is now up to 3lbs 4 oz. His oxygen has been decreased to 1/4 liter per minute and he hovers right around 30% oxygen. Yesterday they gave him a bottle for the 1st time and he did wonderful. He is now getting just over one ounce per feeding or ml's. We have signed up for a discharge class as the nurses have said he may come home sometime in the next three weeks.  I am anxiously awaiting the day we put him to bed in his nursery for the 1st time.

A new year with bittersweet victories

Its been over a week since my last entry and I am sorry about that. Between pumping breastmilk every three hours and visiting Derek finding the time to update is a challenge.

Since my last update Derek has gained more weight. He is now 2 lbs 7oz. They have taken his oxygen down to 1/4 liter per minute and he is using from 30-38% oxygen. He is eating well and making great strides. Last week we had a bit of a scare when Derek's stomach became distended but he has recovered nicely. I was able to give him a sponge bath for the first time. His dad and I have both been able to lift him up. We also took pictures of the snow that fell yesterday and blanketed the valley. I want to be able to show him pictures of his first snowfall. I am so proud of my little guy and can't wait to bring him home.

Unfortunately, some of Derek's milestones have nothing to do with his health or development. Derek at one month old has already lost someone important in his life. My father, Derek's grandpa, passed away on New Year's day. I am sorry that Derek will never get to know what a wonderful man his grandfather was. I know his siblings , cousins, aunts and uncles will help me tell Derek about his grandpa. In the meantime, Derek has another angel on his shoulder.

I will do my best to update a little more often. Happy new year!!