True Blood

Unfortunately, Clara's hemoglobin was low and she had to receive another blood infusion yesterday. This is at least the fourth time she has received blood since birth and we're beginning to think she is part vampire. Think about it --- she sleeps all day, her isolette is covered with a blanket to keep light out, and she is getting extra blood to stay healthy. This is obviously a phase we hope she outgrows . . . for so many reasons.

All kidding aside, it was really hard for us to learn Clara needed more blood. Sure, it was a setback, but that's not the reason it was difficult. We think this infusion was harder on us because now, at five weeks old, we feel much closer to Clara. She has more personality, looks more like baby and, other than her oxygen and feeding tube, all of her other lines and tubes have been removed. In order to give her blood, the doctors had to insert another IV. Looking at an IV your child's arm isn't the easiest thing to do, but thinking about them putting it in is almost more difficult. We know this is the best thing for her (and will hopefully help with her oxygen levels), but want her to grow out of this vampire stage soon!   

I love you Mom . . . can I borrow the car tonight?

Wilson, however, took advantage of Clara's setback and made sure he got out of his isolette to curl up on Mom's chest. The kids will be 32 weeks in gestational age this Thursday, and everything we've read indicates this is when they begin to open their eyes with more frequency. Wilson must have read the same thing because he is already flirting with the nurses and sometimes opening his eyes when we (especially Chris) talk to him. If he isn't a "momma's boy" already, then he is playing Chris like a fiddle.

Although, with Chris' hand injury, it is kind of funny to watch her hold the kids. We wonder what Wilson really thought about Mom's big club hand.