"Momma said there'd be days like this . . . ."

When every nurse, doctor, and preemie parent told us the NICU was a "roller coaster," it was probably naive to think our kids would sail through without the "normal" ups and downs. After two straight weeks of positive progress, Clara and Wilson are both starting to act their age. Clara has not had a bowel movement in several days and they stopped her feedings last night to try and get things under control. Wilson was having trouble keeping his heart rate and oxygen up and had to receive a blood infusion. Possibly more troubling, Wilson had some blood in his stool last night which is something the doctors will watch closely. 

We hope these are normal growing pains, but blood and slow bowel movements could be symptoms of NEC (short for necrotizing enterocolitis). NEC is a very serious condition that develops in the intestines of preemies. The doctors do not seem worried about either Clara or Wilson getting NEC yet, but "gut" problems can become serious as we ask them to tolerate more food. We're taking our cues from our docs and nurses and will obviously let you know if something serious develops. Sometimes the worry of what could happen trumps our concern for what is happening. We try to keep that in mind and remain thankful for the fact our little ones are fighting as hard as they can.

Hopefully today will bring some good news. Chris goes to the doctor for another evaluation on the infection from her c-section. If all goes well she will be able to drive for the first time since her water broke on June 7th. We also want Clara to get things moving and have Wilson prove that yesterday was just an aberration on what has otherwise been a remarkable first couple of weeks. 

Momma said there'd be days like this, but through the love, support, and prayers of friends and family we are able to make it through. We also try to continue to laugh and find humor whenever and wherever we can. Below are pictures of Wilson trying to gain his independence by kicking open the door of his isolette on the Fourth of July, Wilson giving me the bird while trying to take his picture, and my Dad already going for the "Grandpa Look" by wearing a gorgeous red, white, and blue polo to grill out on the Fourth. Hopefully next year he'll have a couple of one year olds hanging off him.

"Hey! Let me out of here!" 

"Seriously Dad, don't take my picture."

I don't know if it's the hair or the shirt, but he is starting to look like a Grandpa.