Season's Greetings!

Okay, I know it's been forever... Sorry ;) I've just uploaded tons of pictures (70 to be exact). Some of them are in the Nov - Dec gallery and the rest are in the Christmas gallery, so be sure to check them out. We are having a ball with the kids. Hank is sitting up really well now, and he's starting to pull his legs up under him like he wants to crawl. He says Mama all the time and, in return, gets anything he wants. Hayden is pulling up and is such a little busy body. She had her first accident when she pulled a plant down on top of her at Nanny's house. It was very minor, but she did get a bo-bo from it. You can see it in some of the Christmas pictures. Hayden says Dada and is the apple of his eye! H&H fight like cats and dogs. I don't care if both of them have the same exact toy in their hands, Hayden will steal Hank's from him. Then she laughs at him when he cries. We are in so much trouble! They got so many great things for Christmas, but most of all they loved the paper and bows. Apparently, they taste pretty good - who knew?!? We've all remained pretty healthy and are trying to stay indoors as much as possible. I'm so ready for warm weather, so we can play outside. I guess that's about all. I hope y'all enjoy the pictures!

Preemie doll pics

I added some new pictures!!! I had some from November and December, so I just put them all together in one album below. The dolls that they are holding in some pictures are dolls that I had made to their exact dimensions when they were born. So, you can see just how much they've grown! Enjoy the pics!

Yuk!

Hayden's got an ear infection. We caught it very early, and it really doesn't seem to be bothering her. She's just a little clingy, that's all. Mommy has the weird December weather crud, so our house is kinda germy right now. Hayden is still crawling and loving it--especially when she crawls right over Hank. He doesn't like that part. She's also a little thief. Anything Hank has, she takes from him, and he just lies there and lets her do it. Hayden is sitting up all by herself now. It's so funny to find her sitting up in her bed in the morning. At night, we put her to bed awake, and she plays until she falls asleep. The past two nights we've gone in her room to find that she fell asleep sitting up and just flopped forward with her legs spread apart with her body lying between them. Hank is beginning to do the army man crawl where he pulls himself across the floor with his arms. I guess he just doesn't want to be outdone by sissy. Y'all have a great week!

Hayden crawled!

She did it this evening for the first time. She's not consistent with it, yet. She crawled on all fours a few times, and the other times, she would crawl two steps (is that what it's called?), then flop on her belly, then back up on all fours for some more crawling, then flop back down. She's really cute and looks way too small to be crawling. It figures that she'd wait until I got my Christmas tree up to start this... I can't wait to see what kind of mess she gets into! Yay for Hayden!

Eye doctor appt

Hayden's appt went well yesterday. The eye dr was very pleased and said that he wants to see her back in two years! He checked her for glasses and said that she was a little far-sighted with an astigmatism, which is normal for her age. No glasses anytime soon. The downside to yesterday was Hayden's being called a boy 7 different times at the dr office. Four people in the waiting room told me how cute my son was, then the dr said, "How's my boy?!", and two nurses did it, too. I know she's bald, but the ladybug and flower on her bib ought to give you a hint! Oh, well, her mommy was a "boy" until she was four and started growing hair, so I guess Hayden is just doomed. She did get her second tooth Monday morning. So, she's tied with Hank (even though his are just about all the way in, and you can see them when he smiles!). Have a great weekend!

Happy Thanksgiving

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday. We enjoyed our trip to McComb. H&H are really getting mobile. They still aren't crawling, but Hayden is so close, and it's really frustrating her. She can sit up all by herself now, and she's so cute. She just looks way too little to be sitting alone. Hank is starting to sit a little bit by himself. He has begun to reach for me and has become quite the momma's boy. I found Hayden's first tooth Friday morning, so Hank is only up 2-1 now. His little bottom teeth are so cute. H&H go to the dr Tuesday for flu booster shots (they had their first flu shots last month). Then Hayden goes to the eye dr in Jackson on Wednesday. This is the pediatric ophthalmologist that saw them each week in the NICU and a few times after they were released. He saw them 6 months ago and wanted to see Hayden again in December and Hank again in May. It's just a check-up, so we hope to hear good news. I am so excited about the holidays and hope to have lots of fun pictures to share over the next month or so, so everybody, keep checking back!

First soccer game!

Tonight H&H went to their very first soccer game. They had a great time and were really good. There are some pics from the game in the November album. Hayden is starting to rock back and forth on her hands and knees. Crawling isn't far away! Hank has been saying consonant sounds: ma-ma-ma & ba-ba-ba. And Hayden can wave bye-bye, but she doesn't do it all the time. Hank can twirl his pacifier around in his mouth with his tongue if he puts it in upside down. It's a really cute trick. Apparently, I used to do it, too. I am getting ready for their first Christmas... I can't wait! We went to the dr yesterday for RSV shots and got new weights on the kids. Hayden was 14-10, and Hank 16-8. They seem to still be doing really well. Thanks for checking in! (Don't forget to check out the new pics!)

Rollin', rollin', rollin'

Still no big news around here. H&H are so mobile now. Rolling around is their major mode of transportation. They can roll across a room in no time! It scares us to think about crawling and walking. I turned my back the other day, and when I turned back around Hank had made it all the way to the corner of the room and was chewing on the wheel of his high chair. They were supposed to get another RSV shot today, but the drs office had written the date wrong on our appt reminder card. They called today to remind us of our appt tomorrow, so I called them back and told them that our appt was for today, and I had already made plans, yada-yada, but they couldn't change it. We'll go next Thursday morning instead. I'm putting more new pics in the November album, so y'all check it out!

Brief update

Everything's going great. Hank's still winning the tooth race 2-0 over Hayden.

Still truckin'

Just a quick note to say THANKS to everyone who bought us diapers & wipes as baby gifts. The twins have been home for 6 months now, and we STILL have diapers & wipes! We've got about 4 jumbo packs of diapers left, so we should make it to the 7 or even 8 month mark without having to buy any. What a blessing you have been!

We got good news today.

Dr. Parent doesn't think that Hank needs any surgical procedure right now. He can't see any blockage of spinal fluid and is thinking that Hank's ventricles might be enlarged due to his initial bleed and will always be a little larger than normal. He's going to keep monitoring him to make sure, so we go back for a CT scan and re-evaluation in January. Thanks so much for all of your prayers--we know they worked!

***NEWS FLASH***

Hank has a tooth!!!
Okay, so it just broke the gum, but still IT'S A TOOTH! Hayden got a flu shot today, but because Hank has a mystery rash, he has to wait until next week to get his. We see the neurosurgeon on Monday, so check back for an update then.

Not a fun day

Hank's MRI went well. He wasn't very happy while they were putting the IV in, and mom & dad almost cried too--he was so pitiful. Afterwards, they wouldn't let us leave until he opened his eyes, and it took FOREVER! We tried pinching, poking, rubbing, yelling, cold rag, but nothing worked. He was a limp ragdoll. Finally the nurse put the rag in some ICE COLD water, and that did the trick. He's been very clingy and sleepy since then, and she said to expect that for the next 72 hours, possibly. We have to wake him up every 2 hours to make sure he's okay. We'll get the results on Monday, so check back then for an update. Until then, enjoy the cute, new pictures under October. Thanks for checking in!

We love fall

We've had a fun weekend. The nice weather has allowed us to lie out in the shade on a blanket each day. H&H love it! Hank has recently found his feet, and Hayden has a crush on the WJTV-12 weatherman. She squeals whenever he's on tv--it's so funny! She also really likes Steve from Blue's Clues. She scooted from one end of the quilt to the other while we were outside the other day. Hank is content lying just where he is--soaking it all in. He does love when the wind blows and all the leaves on the trees move. He thinks that's really great. He likes to feel the grass, but Hayden isn't too interested in it. Hank's MRI is tomorrow morning. We have to be at UMC at 9:30--Think about us then! We won't know the results until next week, but I'll update Monday evening and let you know how the little man did.

Happy Columbus Day!

We enjoyed a fun weekend in McComb and a nice holiday yesterday at home. H&H saw their pediatrician yesterday and got a great report! Hank weighed 15-10, and Hayden weighed 13-7. They are getting so big! They were a little tired going into the appointment, so you can imagine what it was like when Dr. Smith started poking and prodding them. Then they got their RSV shots. They were NOT happy. Since Hank weighs more, he got 2 shots. She also gave them the go-ahead to start eating meats. It grosses me out to think of feeding them mushy meat out of a jar, but I guess I'll have to. Yuck. To her, she said they look like 7-month-olds developmentally. That's so great considering they are still about week shy of being 6 months adjusted age. I'll try to get some new pictures up this week. Hank is getting a little more hair, but poor Hayden has been cursed by her mommy and will probably be bald until she's 4. I joked to a friend the other day that H&H could star in their own soap "The BALD and the Beautiful". Fine by me, though. I wouldn't know what to do with her hair if she had any! Bows and braids are all foreign to me. Thanks for checking up on us--we're doing great!

p.s. Hank's MRI is Monday. The word is that he will have to be sedated, and I'm still not excited about it, but I don't think it's as bad as I thought. It's called conscious sedation, where he's just basically put to sleep rather than general anesthesia. Makes me feel only a tad better, but I guess I'll have to live with it.

Longest day ever

Today was a long day. We started our day at 10 am when we left Vicksburg for Jackson. Hank's neurosurgeon appt was at 11:10 but the dr was behind, and we didn't get seen until after 12:30. We saw Dr. Parent, and he said that Hank's middle and lateral ventricles are definitely dilated (overly filled with fluid), but his frontal ventricle is not. This leads him to believe that there is some sort of blockage between the lateral ventricles and the frontal ventricle, prohibiting a steady flow of spinal fluid to the frontal and out and around the brain. It doesn't seem to be bothering Hank developmentally, and Dr. Parent said that Hank's brain "looks like a happy brain", so he's not too worried right now. He did order an MRI for Oct. 18, and we'll see him again on the 25th for him to go over the results. If the MRI confirms what he thinks is happening, Hank will need surgery to implant a shunt. Mom is not excited about this, nor am I excited about Hank being put to sleep to have the MRI--it just makes me nervous. Anyway, we left UMC at 1:30 to head over to Baptist for H&H's appointment at the developmental clinic. We fed the kids in the car in the parking lot, but Princess Hayden's bottle was too cold, so I had to go into Baptist in search of a microwave to heat it up. I fed her in a waiting room while Hank finished up with Jay in the car. We had a great visit at the clinic. The therapists played with them on the floor, testing various skills. Both kids scored ahead of schedule developmentally. Their corrected age (since their due date) is 4 months, 28 days, and they scored anywhere from 5.2 to 6.8 months in different areas. They were very pleased with them and want to see them back Feb. 24. After we finished up there, we went upstairs to the NICU to visit all of the wonderful ladies who took care of them for so long. It was great to see them all again. We are so thankful for everyone who nursed them during their 94 days in the hospital, but we are even more thankful that they are home and healthy and happy. We finally made it back home at 5 pm, and we were all exhausted. Jay had soccer practice, so the kids and I went promptly to sleep for a couple of hours. What a full day--we can't wait for the weekend! Please keep Hank in your prayers. Pray that the MRI will show that there isn't any blockage. But if it does, pray that we are prepared to accept the news, and that Hank will come through the necessary procedures with flying colors--not that we don't already know that he's such a trooper! Thanks so much for your continued support of our family. We couldn't do it without you! p.s. Hank weighed 15 lbs. & Hayden was 13.4 lbs.

I know, I know...

I've been MIA for a while. Would you believe it if I said I'd been slightly busy? :) Everything is going great around our house. It seems like the kids are doing new little things every day. Hayden is about to roll over from back to belly. Hank is holding his bottle pretty well. They are both on the verge of sitting up alone. It's a very exciting time for us. We have our appt with Dr. Parent (the pediatric neurosurgeon) on Thursday. We also have an appt at the developmental clinic at Baptist that day. The neonatologist that helped deliver the twins along with one of the nurse practioners who took care of them while in the NICU will be working with them on Thursday to see if they are on-track developmentally. Of course, I think they're doing great, and our pediatrician also thinks so. But I guess we'll find out this week. And after our appt we'll head upstairs to the NICU to visit all of the nurses we loved for 94 days! We are so excited about that! We took Hank to the dr on Wednesday. He had a little rash on his head which turned out to be eczema. A little hydrocortisone cream has solved the problem. She also started both kids on Zantac for their reflux. It seems to be helping already, but boy, that stuff surely does smell bad. And H&H hate the taste of it. They took their first trip out of state today. We went to visit my good friend Susan and her family in West Monroe, LA, today. They had a great time, and of course, I enjoyed showing them off. Please remember our dr appts in your prayers this week. I promise to update Thursday evening with news from the dr's office. Check out the Sept gallery for new pics!

Jay's Christening

I added one new pic to September from an incident that happened last night between Jay & Hayden. ** Yuck factor: 8 **

Sorry about the delay.

New pics are in the September gallery! Enjoy!

Labor Day weekend

I hope everyone had a good Labor Day holiday. I know we enjoyed the day off. We spent the weekend in McComb and had a great time. Hank talks up a storm now. He just babbles on and on. Hayden won't take her feet out of her mouth long enough to try to say anything. She is constantly pulling off her socks and sucking her toes. She is the early bird--waking up first each morning. She wakes me up by talking and playing in her bed about 7:30. The toes of her footed PJs are usually soaking wet from being in her mouth. Hank thinks everything is funny now. He laughs and smiles all of the time. We are practicing using the sippy cup now, and Hayden loves it. Hank isn't quite sure about it. Hayden also loves to "feed herself". She holds my hand while I'm holding the spoon, and she guides the spoon to her mouth pretty well. This is how I keep her interested in eating--otherwise, she fights the spoon. She'd eat 4 jars of baby food if I let her feed herself--Miss Independent! Hank doesn't want to help feed himself. He just sits with his mouth wide open waiting for the next bite. He's so laid back. I weighed them at my Nanny's--Hank was 14 lbs. 7 oz. and Hayden was 12 lbs. They are really close to sitting up. They do very well with a little support. I took some pics this weekend and I hope to have them uploaded by Tuesday afternoon, so y'all check back. Please continue to remember Hank's neurosurgeon visit on the 23rd in your prayers. Thanks for checking in!

Better late than never

There are new pics in the August gallery. Yes, I know it's September, but I just got the film developed, and the pictures are from a few weeks ago. Enjoy!

I know, I know...

It's been forever since I've updated. We've been super busy, and I'm sorry I haven't found the time to update. I found out yesterday that Hank will see Dr. Parent at UMC in Jackson on Sept. 23. I'm not sure exactly what he's going to want to do--if he'll want to do his own CT scan or what. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Hayden & Hank both suck their thumbs now--only when they're sleepy, though. And Hayden loves to suck on her toes. Hank's not as limber as she is, and his feet don't quite make it to his mouth, but he tries. They've moved on to green veggies and love their peas. Hayden has become a great eater. She really likes the spoon now. Hank has discovered that he can suck on his bottom lip and chooses to do so when he's tired of eating. That way we can't get the spoon in. We are headed to McComb this weekend, and we'll weigh them on my Nanny's scales, so we'll have some weights for you on Monday. I hope to take some more pictures while we're down there, too, so check back next week for new pics. Have a great holiday weekend!

Hank's head

Hank's dr called and said she'd like to refer us to a pediatric neurosurgeon at UMC in Jackson. She's not alarmed, but it does appear that his ventricles are larger than they were, and she's more comfortable letting a specialist check him out. She's going to call and see if they can work us in sometime soon, but it could be a month or more she said. He's doing great developmentally, bringing his hands together at his chest, pulling toys to his mouth, sitting with support, rolling over, and babbling, so we aren't too worried, but we are concerned. We'll keep you informed. Hayden has found her feet. Last night, Jay and I kept hearing this thumping noise...scared us to death. We thought someone was trying to break in. Nope. Just Hayden playing with her feet then dropping them back down to flop on the mattress. She also kicks her little aquarium thing that's attached to the side of her bed and will turn it on in the middle of the night. Hank loves the "Oobi" show on the Noggin channel. He literally squeals the entire time it's on. Oobi is just a hand with some eyeballs on top of it, but he's always been fascinated with hands, so I guess that's what does it for him. It's hilarious to watch him watch Oobi. Y'all have a great week!

So proud of Hank...

Hank was such a big boy yesterday for his CT scan (also their 7 mo. birthday!). He didn't cry or squirm or anything. We got the results this evening, and we're just not sure what to make of them yet. His ventricles are dilated, which usually isn't good, but Dr. Smith needs to see his old scans to compare. She said that they do look enlarged, but she's not sure if they are still in proportion to what they've always been or what. So, I've got to drive over to Jackson and get his old scans for the neurologist to look at. Please put Hank's head back on your prayer list until we can get some good news once they've had a chance to look over his records. Other than that, everything is great. They've tried squash and sweet potatoes now, and Hayden is still none too thrilled with the whole spoon idea. She still likes to just lick it rather than open up. Hank gobbles down whatever is put before him. Thanks for checking in, and I'll let you know as soon as we have more news on Hank.

Another dr appt

Our dr appt went really well today. Hank weighed 13-10, and Hayden was 11-8. Dr Smith was very pleased with their progress, especially their developmental skills and said they'd probably be sitting up in a month or so! She gave us the go-ahead for yellow veggies, so they had carrots for dinner. Hank ate them right up--opening his mouth and everything. Hayden didn't want to open her mouth, she just wanted to stick her tongue out and lick the carrots off of the spoon. We filmed the whole dinner, too. It was pretty funny. Just as a check-up, Hank will have a CT scan on Tuesday. His head hasn't been looked at since we left Baptist, so she just wants to check him out and make sure there's not an increase of fluid in his ventricles or any swelling. Please pray that we get good results. Hayden was a little congested today--apparently, so little that I hadn't even noticed. Dr Smith gave us some medicine that Hayden does NOT like. It was so much fun giving it to her tonight (note the sarcasm). Both are sleeping soundly now after a very busy and stressful day (both got 2 shots). Now it's my bedtime--hope I can sleep as well as they are!

Hank's better now.

He was one pitiful little boy for a few days, but we're over that hump! Both kids have a regular check-up on Wednesday, so we'll get the official word that he's well then. We think Hayden may have gotten a touch of it, but we aren't certain. They are getting so big and more fun everyday. I've posted new black and white pics under August 2004, so check them out!!!

Hank's first illness

We had to take Hank to the dr today. He had a little fever and was very fussy. It turned out that he has a viral sore throat, and we just have to wait it out. Right now, Tylenol seems to be doing the trick, and he feels much better. The real task is going to be keeping Hayden from catching it. He weighed 13 lbs. 2 oz. with clothes and diaper on today. Y'all pray that he gets over this thing--hard to believe we've gone 3 1/2 months without any sickness. The dr said that was pretty good. I guess it has to happen sometime. Going to my kitchen/laboratory to make bottles. It's not nearly as bad as it used to be. We only make 8 bottles a night rather than the 12 we started out with. Plus, we only add formula and cereal to the bottles--not quite the concoction of a month or so ago. Thank goodness--life's getting a little simpler!!!

Roly-poly

Hank finally rolled over! Nobody actually witnessed it, but our sitter said that she put him down in his bed on his belly, and she checked on him later, and he was on his back. He's been pretty close over the past week, so we knew he ought to be doing it soon. He and Hayden are both beginning to try to hold their bottles, and Hayden is starting to discover her feet. They both have the cutest laughs and are so much fun to be around. We go to the doctor on the 11th, so we'll have new weights then. We can't wait to see how much they weigh. Since they are on regular formula now, we don't expect a huge weight jump, but you never know. Thanks for checking up. I hope to take some pics this weekend in McComb, so check back next week for new ones.

First swim

H&H are doing great. They went swimming for the first time Friday night. They loved it. They weren't quite sure what to do, but they kicked and had a good time. They love their baths so much that we thought they'd enjoy the pool, too. I fed Hank with a spoon the other night. What a mess we made! He really likes it now. We're only doing cereal and will start veggies in a few weeks. Hayden doesn't like the spoon, but we're still working on it. Their sitter started working last week. She's been great, and the kids don't seem to notice that someone different is taking care of them. They sleep 12 hours straight at night with several naps during the day. Of course, they started sleeping through the night just as I went back to work and Jay took over. How unfair is that??? We won't have new weights for a couple of weeks, but I think Hank is about 13 lbs and Hayden is about 10 1/2. I can't believe they're so big now. For Christmas I'm getting each of them a doll that is custom made to their birth size, so we'll always have a reminder of how small they were when they were born. I think it will be a nice keepsake for them to show their own children and grandchildren. Am I thinking ahead or what? Y'all have a great week!

6 months old

We had a great visit in McComb this weekend while Jay was fishing in South Louisiana. Hank put on a show for everyone--he is "talking" up a storm now. How I wish I knew what he is trying to say! Hayden is a sassy little thing who flirts just enough to get her way. She is spoiled rotten, but is so precious with the sweetest grin that you can't help but give in to whatever she wants. We are really going to have our hands full with her. The twins were 6 months old on Saturday. I can't believe they are already half a year old, but then again it seems like eons ago when Jay & I made that trip to Jackson, not realizing we'd be parents of two tiny babies the next day. Whew--what a ride it's been! Thanks to everyone who continues to check up on our family after all this time. There are many of you whom we don't even know, yet you are so precious to us. H&H wouldn't be doing so well without you!

Send in the clowns...

Well, he certainly took his time getting a personality, but Hank has turned into such a little clown. He laughs and smiles at us now, almost constantly, and this only started Sunday night. He is so much fun. And Hayden-all it takes is a little eye contact, and Hayden pours on the charm. She grins and sticks her tongue out, flirting with anyone who'll give her the attention. They are both getting so strong--they hold their heads up really well when on their tummies and love to "stand up" when you hold them in your lap. Hank is still much bigger than her, as you can tell by the last picture in the July photo gallery. I took that shot of them on the floor in just their diapers so you could see the size difference. You can really tell it when you hold them--2 pounds is a lot!

Zzzzzzzzzz

H&H are such great sleepers! We put them to bed around 10 each night, and they sleep until nearly 10 the next morning. Then they eat and go back to sleep for another 4 hours. It's wonderful! Hayden is still her laughing, smiling self--she loves interacting with people and watching their facial expressions change. Hank is not amused by people for the most part. He'd rather sit in his bouncy seat and grab and tug at his link-a-doos that dangle from a toy bar above. He will laugh and talk like crazy, but the minute he catches us watching him he clams up. They're both really funny kids. I put some new pictures under July 2004 Photos. Enjoy!

Hallelujah!

The thing I've been waiting for finally happened yesterday! Don't get too excited, though. It won't be nearly as earth-shattering for you as it was for us. Hank put his pacifier back in his mouth by himself 3 times yesterday! I've told several people that some people can't wait 'til their kids walk or talk... I just wanted mine to pick up their pacifiers and put them back in, and finally Hank did it! Of course, once I got the camera out he didn't do it again, but oh well. We went to McComb for the July 4th holiday weekend and had a great time. H&H got to meet some family from Austin, TX, at a get-together on the 4th. They even put their little toes in the swimming pool for the first time. We are getting them out more and more, but we're still very careful about getting near small children. Kids under two are like "germ warfare" according to our doctor. Yesterday, H&H met more family from Kilgore, TX. They are so good around strangers and tend to be comfortable in anyone's arms. I'm going to try to get better at updating this site, but there's so much going on now, yet nothing really significant--just everyday stuff. But I know that some of you need your "twin fix" each morning, so I'll do my best to update more regularly. Thanks for thinking about us!

On to regular formula!

Our dr appt went well. She is very pleased with both babies' progress. Hank weighed 12 lbs., and Hayden was 9 lbs. 15 oz. She has taken us off the high-calorie formula they were on, and they'll now be drinking regular formula. She also said they can have some oatmeal in addition to the rice cereal they are already getting. Thanks for checking in!

A vacation - right down the road

H&H spent their first night in a hotel room last night. We had a really quick but bad storm come through Vicksburg yesterday, and our power was out for 18 hours. We got a room so we could keep their bottles cool and warm them up for feedings, and just for overall comfort. It didn't phase the babies at all, but Jay & I didn't sleep a wink. We're not used to sleeping in the same room with them, so we heard every grunt and snort. Hank found his grin on Saturday. He'd been smiling some, but not regularly or in response to us. Now he does, but he's still stingy with them, which makes his grins extra special. Hayden smiles all of the time and is in the best mood when she first wakes up (she doesn't get that from her parents!). We have a dr appt on Wed. so we'll have updated weights then. Have a great week!

Happy Father's Day to Jay!

The babies are doing great. Hank is sleeping through the night consistently, now. Hayden does it, too, but not as regularly. She did last night, though. I think Hank is between 11.5 and 12 pounds. Hayden is between 9.5 and 10 pounds. We go back to the dr next week, so I'll have definite weights then. I'm back at work full-time now, so Jay is at home with the twins. We've found someone to keep the kids when school starts, and we are so excited about her. Thanks to everyone who was praying for this need. I took some cute pics this weekend and will try to post them this evening. Y'all have a great week.

Finally!

H&H slept all night last night--a whole 8 hours straight!!! We fed them at midnight (we're late-night people, so we're always still up at midnight) then put them down and went to sleep. At 7 a.m. I bolted straight up in bed and freaked out. I ran in their room to make sure they were still breathing, and of course they were. So I went back to bed until they woke us up at 8. Hallelujah! It may not happen again for a while, but at least we know they are capable of it. We're about to go get our baths--they both love them. I put their tubs up on the bathroom counter, and they watch themselves in the mirror and splash having the best time. Since we can't really go anywhere and do anything, I let their bathtime be their special fun time. I let them make the biggest mess, and I get sopping wet, and I don't care. Maybe I'll take some bath pics this week and post them. Thanks for checking in! Have a great week!

Mr. Mom

We're still doing great. I started back to work part-time this week. Jay's at home with the twins. He's having to get up with them at night, and he's exhausted. I think they realize that it's Daddy that's taking care of them, and they've ganged up on him. They haven't been the best babies the past couple of nights, and I hope it gets better soon, since I know exactly what Jay's going through. We think we may have found someone who will keep the kids when school starts back. She comes very highly recommended, and we're going to meet with her today. Thanks to everyone who've been praying that this need be met. I hope it works out!!!

Time flies...

Can y'all believe it's June already??? Time sure flies! Everyone is doing great. Just wanted to say that I've re-organized the photo links below. No new pics since the last update on Sunday, though. Have a fun day!

Happy Memorial Day

Hey, everybody! We've got some cute, new pics in the May 2004 gallery for you to check out. We're back from McComb, and we had a great trip. Hayden has been smiling and laughing a good bit, and Hank is just beginning to do the same. We weighed on my grandmother's doctor's scales today, which seem to be right on the money with our pediatrician's. Today, Hank was 10 lbs. 5 oz. and Hayden was 8 lbs. 7 oz. It's unbelievable how much heavier 2 lbs. is. Hayden feels so light compared to Hank. Gotta run. Y'all check out the pics and have a great Memorial Day!

The other white meat

Well, we've got some porkers on our hands! Hank is 9 lbs. 15 oz. now (yes, you read that right), and Hayden is 8 lbs. 2 oz. We're in McComb right now and the babies are getting spoiled left and right. We're in for trouble when we return to the real-world of Vicksburg. They started on prune juice this morning to try to kick their stomach problems, and I think it's already working. Thanks for checking up!

Our first all-nighter

Well, we had our first bad night last night. Hank's little tummy is stopped up, and he cried all night. Finally, at 5:15 a.m. I went to Wal-Mart to get some supppositories (lovely, I know). We all finally got in bed at 7:30 a.m. You know it's bad when you read the Sunday morning paper as you're getting ready to go to sleep rather than when you first get up! Hank felt much better after that, and we can't wait until we see the dr on Wednesday to get this problem solved (hopefully). We're dying to know what they weigh now. This cereal looks like it has really put some weight on Hank. He doesn't even look like pictures from just a few weeks ago. Hayden has become the good child over the past several days. I don't know if it has to do with Hank's tummy or what, but she's been an angel, and he's been very high-maintenance. Of course, right as I type this, Hayden just started screaming her head off. Better run. Check for a couple of new pics in the May gallery. Have a great week!

Same ol' stuff

Okay, don't hate me. Sorry I haven't updated, but there really isn't anything to update. Everyone is still doing well, and we are still having fun. I've been trying for a week to get Hayden to roll over for the video camera, and I finally got her the other night--twice. All the other times, she'd do it, I'd run to get the camera, and she wouldn't do it again. Typical. Hank could probably do some tricks, too, if he'd just stay awake long enough. What a lazy kid! Hayden loves to help me update the website and email people, so she's with me now. Where's Hank, you ask? Where he always is--asleep. I should be thankful that they aren't both wide-eyed at the same time! We have no plans for this weekend, so we are looking forward to some family time at home. I put a new picture in the May 2004 gallery. It's nothing big, I just thought H & H looked cute hanging out in my grandmother's chair. Enjoy.

Trip #2

We're back from our second trip to McComb, and again we had a great time. H&H had some more visitors, and were in great moods for all. The cereal is doing the trick, and we aren't spitting up anymore--yay! I know they're going to get so fat now! Hank has already moved up to size 1 diapers. Hayden is beginning to laugh and smile a good bit. We don't know what Hank is capable of doing, since he sleeps the days away...lazy bones! We have no doctor appointments this week, and I am so excited. It's nice to not have to do anything. This is Jay's last week of school, then we'll have a few weeks of family time before I go back to work, then Jay will have them for the remainder of the summer. I'm off to unpack from the weekend. I'll try to take some pics this week and post them Friday. Check back and have a great week!

Eatin' Wheaties now...

We've got some fatso kids on our hands--well, at least one... Hank is 8 lbs. 5 oz. and Hayden is 7 lbs. even. They're about to get even bigger, though--They have acid reflux, so the dr told me to put a little cereal in their milk from now on... They're going to be monsters! Everything else looked great, and we don't go back to see her for 2 weeks--they'll get some of their shots then, too. Have a great week! Oh, I almost forgot--Hayden rolled over twice last night. I wasn't sure if she really did it the first time, so I put her back on her belly, and she did it again... I see gymnastics in her future!

No ROP for Hank

The eye dr appt went very well. In fact, Hank's retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) has healed, and he won't have to go back to the eye dr until he's a year old! Hayden is one step behind him and will have to go back in two weeks, but that will probably be her last visit for a year. Many of you remember my mentioning the Allen twins born back in February at 22 weeks and just over a pound. They are still in the hospital but are doing way better than they ever expected. You can check up on them by visiting their site www.babiesonline.com/babies/b/blaneanddylan If you get a chance, please say a special prayer for Blane as he has surgery on Thursday to insert a shunt into his head. He will have to be transported to UMC for the surgery, and I know his parents would appreciate the prayers. Thanks, friends... Y'all are the "bestest"!

Our first road trip

Wow! It seems like forever since I've updated. We've been in McComb since Thursday, and we had the best time. We got to see lots of family and friends that hadn't seen the twins yet, and H&H got to meet their great-grandfather Gilbert. How exciting! They slept the whole way there and back, and didn't miss a beat the entire time we were there. In fact, we plan to go back this coming weekend since Jay will be out of town for a soccer tournament. I went to my friend Deedre's wedding (congrats to her and Jim!). She was beautiful, and the wedding was so sweet. I got to see a couple of friends from high school there, one of whom has boy/girl twins also. The highlight of our trip was a special Mother's Day gift that I received today. Actually, it's for both Hayden and me. My aunt passed down to me my great-grandmother's engagement ring, and one day it will be Hayden's. How special is that? We have an eye dr appt in Jackson tomorrow (Mon.), and I will update tomorrow evening on the results of that. I will be uploading later tonight some new pictures from our McComb trip to a new photo album entitled "May 2004". Enjoy!

Gaining weight...

Our pediatrician appointment went great. The babies have gained 6 oz. putting Hank up to 7 lbs. 10 oz. and Hayden at 6 lbs. 9 oz. It's only a pound difference, but Hank looks like Hayden's older cousin, not her twin brother--he's huge!!! He feels like a bucket of lead, while she feels like her bones are made of drift wood. They are so different--in looks and temperament. Hayden is very demanding--when she's hungry, she's hungry, and she wants food right now! Hank, bless his little heart, he's so laid back that he'd starve to death before he caused a scene. We think that Hayden has reflux, she spits up a good bit, and it really ticks her off. So now, we sit her in her car seat for 30 minutes after each feeding. We just started this today after our appointment, so we'll let you know how it goes. The twins and I are making the big trip down to McComb this weekend. My good friend Deedre' is getting married, and I wouldn't miss it for the world. And I also want the babies to meet their great-grandfather who is unable to make the trip to Vicksburg. The doctor said that traveling is not an issue--fill their bellies up and they'll most likely sleep the hour and a half it takes to get there. The main thing is just making sure they're in a good environment when we get there--no smoking, pets, etc., and still keep them confined to the house (my grandmother's). We've got that covered, and I'm so excited about getting to show them off to family that haven't met them yet. We will see the eye dr again on Monday and the pediatrician on Tuesday, so we'll have new weight updates then. It's driving us crazy not knowing their weights on a daily basis like we used to when they were in the hospital. I'm considering sneaking them out to Kroger in the dark of night to weigh them on the produce scale! Just kidding, of course! Y'all have a great week!

Hungry, hungry hippos

Sorry I haven't updated in a while. As you can imagine, things are quite crazy here at home. The babies are great, but all the laundry and bottle-washing is insane! We've been putting the twins in the same bed during the day, and they are so cute. They snuggle up with each other, but as the next meal time approaches they start trying to eat each other! Yesterday, Hank was sucking on Hayden's forehead while she was sampling his arm. Of course, they wiggled out of position before I could get a picture. I'll try to take some cute pics this week and post them. Thanks for checking in--we're all doing great!

Million Dollar Babies

We had a great checkup with the pediatrician today. She said that Hayden & Hank are both "super". She has no concerns with them right now, and thinks they are both a little ahead of where they should be at this point (I knew they were smart!). They've both gained 9 oz. in the week that they've been home--Hank is 7 lbs. 4 oz. and Hayden is 6 lbs. 3 oz. She would like to see them weekly, just to keep an eye on their weight gain, which right now is right on schedule. We got our hospital bill today... Many of you have asked how much it was going to be, and many of you have wondered but weren't sure if it was appropriate to ask. We don't mind telling--so far, the tally is $698,691.75!!! Thank goodness for insurance and Medicaid (all babies born under 1200 grams automatically qualify for Medicaid, and ours were 840 and 800). That means we aren't responsible for one dime of the bill... How awesome is that??? (Thanks to everyone for paying their taxes! Betcha didn't realize you weren't just PRAYING for H&H, you were PAYING for them, too!) I better go check on the kids--Hayden spit up in her bed, so I had to strip the sheets. Putting more sheets on is a two person job, so I'm waiting on Jay to come home to help. In the meantime, the twins are in the same bed, and I hope they don't kill each other. They are both so mobile, scooting and clawing at everything. Keep checking in for more updates...

HAPPY 100 DAYS OLD, H&H!!!

The babies had an eye doctor appointment today, and everything looked normal. He has been seeing them weekly since they were 5 weeks old because of possible eye problems associated with prematurity and prolonged receipt of oxygen. He even checked them today to see what the prognosis was for glasses down the road, and he doesn't think that they will need them as toddlers, which is also good news. The kids did great on the trip over to Jackson--they slept the entire time--even through their exams. Hank woke up briefly in the waiting room, but Hayden was sacked out. They began to stir when we were just a few blocks from returning home. What troopers! Tomorrow (Tues) we have our first pediatrician appointment. It will be interesting to see what they weigh--we got spoiled with daily weight updates while they were in the hospital, and it's killing us to not know if they are getting enough food. We'll be sure to update with the latest stats from tomorrow's appt. Have a great Tuesday!

Home Sweet Home

Y'all, we are having so much fun! These babies are absolutely precious and keep smiles on our faces all day long. We've had lots of family visiting over the past few days--enjoying unlimited snuggle time with the twins. The babies are adjusting well, staying on their schedule for the most part. Hank is a great baby--sleeps right up until feeding time with just a little play time in between feedings. Hayden, on the other hand, falls asleep while eating, then wakes up hungry a couple of hours later. I talked to one of the NICU nurses tonight, who told me to do my best to keep Hayden awake, so I did, and it worked. She's still asleep, and there's 3 minutes until the next feeding. Thanks for keeping up with us... I know everyone is just about as excited as we are!

WE ARE HOME!!!

All four of us came home today, and my feet haven't touched the ground since Sunday--I'm floating! It is so good to see these fat, healthy babies with no tubes or wires, and hold them any time I please. We had a great time with Hayden & Hank the past 2 nights in the hospital. Everything went very smoothly, and we never had to call for the nurse at all. We all slept really good, and they were no trouble. We finally got to play the long-awaited game of dress-up in some day gowns that my grandmother Gilbert and her mother made 50-something years ago for my mom, aunt, and uncle. We took lots of pictures, and I hope to get them uploaded tonight. H & H eat at 9, 1, and 5, which isn't a bad schedule for us. Their discharge weights were Hank--6 lbs. 11 oz. and Hayden--5 lbs. 10 oz. We have really enjoyed having them home. They are adjusting fine and are sleeping soundly right now. They also slept the entire trip home in the car. I got some cute pics in their car seats... they looked so grown-up! We have our first pediatrician appt in Vicksburg on Monday, then it's back to Jackson on Tuesday for an eye dr appointment. I'm going to catch a few Z's, but before I do I, along with H&H (in their slumber), will thank the Lord for all of you who have prayed for us and kept up with us over the past 3+ months. We really couldn't have done it without you!

Happy 3-month B-day H&H!!!

I can't believe it's been that long, and the end of the hospital stay is finally in sight. We're still on go for Tuesday. Jay & I will spend Sunday and Monday nights at the hospital. The babies will room-in with us, and we will be completely responsible for them during that time. The nurses will come in and check on us throughout the days and nights to make sure all FOUR of us are alive! Basically, it will be a trial run for us as parents with premature babies, and for the babies in an environment outside of the NICU (but not too far from it, just in case). We are so excited about having them all to ourselves, with no wires, and the freedom to hold them and touch them whenever we want to (not that the nurses don't let us, but that we're so far away from them and only see them about an hour a day). We're also a little sad about leaving the hospital. We've made some good friends there--other parents and many of the nurses. We were joking last night that we've been there so long that we've just made ourselves at home. We no longer have to tell the lady that answers the NICU door who we are. We know the other babies in there, how long they've been there, and which parents go with which babies. We know about many of the nurses families and backgrounds and how long they've been working in the NICU. We know which ones we can joke around with and which ones are all business. But we know that all of them love our babies and spoil them rotten when we can't be around. We will be forever thankful for the entire staff at Baptist, but mainly the nurses that have tended to our children. They will always be so special to us, and we plan to keep in touch by sending pictures and attending the annual NICU reunion. Just because the babies will be home soon, don't think that we'll abandon this website. We'll still update it with all of the twins' "firsts", and of course there'll be pictures! The site is doing something different with the photo gallery now, so it will be a little while before I get pics re-uploaded, but I can assure you that there will be plenty of pictures to be shared in the future. Thanks for everything, and please keep your fingers crossed that we make it home with both babies on Tuesday. We'll update as soon as we get a chance and let you know if we all survived the trip home. We love y'all!

The countdown has begun...

More great news! Both babies are doing so well that the dr is projecting a Tuesday homecoming for BOTH!!! We are so excited! I'm typing without my contacts in, so I'll write more tomorrow when I can see what I'm typing. I hope the twins don't inherit my eyesight--blind as a bat! Have a great day!

SuperHank...

Great news! Hank has been off of his oxygen since 9 a.m. (it's 11:30 p.m. now). He doesn't even have prongs in his nose anymore. He's been doing really well, except for one little episode while he was eating earlier, but that's expected. He weighs 6 lbs. 4 oz. and is eating about 70 ml (2.3 oz). Hayden is still doing well. She hasn't had a spell since 1 a.m. which was also feeding induced. She is eating about 2 oz. and weighs 5 lbs. 5.8 oz. They are both doing so well, and we are so fired up that these road trips to Jackson are about to end--We've put over 9,000 miles on my Tahoe since the twins were born... and we can't even boast some great vacation... just trips to Jackson, MS! Thanks so much for checkin' up!

Happy Easter!

A Tuesday homecoming for Hayden is off now. She continues to drop her heartrate during feedings, although today has been a good day for her. She is still off of her oxygen and doing well other than at feeding times. I think she heard that she was coming home, and she didn't want to leave Hank all by himself, so she decided to sabotage the plan. Hank was 6 lbs. last night, and Hayden was 5 lbs. 3 oz. They are both champion feeders--Hank took 3 oz. yesterday! He had a bad spell last night in his sleep, and they think he probably had too much to eat, so they have cut him back to 2 oz. They were sweet as can be today, and the Easter Bunny managed to find them in the hospital and left some goodies. Have a great week and Happy Easter!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAY!!!!!

The babies are doing very well. I'm not sure if Hayden is going to get to come home on Tuesday. Jay & I are both scared that she's just not ready. And the doctor told me that it is a possibility that Hank will bring his friend Mr. Oxygen home with him when the time comes. We are not excited about that. We are dying to have them both home, but we want them home with no dependencies. I don't know if I'll have time to update since we've got some family coming in, so everyone have a wonderful Easter!

A homecoming ahead???

It looks like Miss Hayden might be making the trip home to Vicksburg on Tuesday if all goes well between now and then. She actually was supposed to come home tomorrow, but she wasn’t eating very well this morning, so they want to watch her a little longer. We kind of kept that information to ourselves, since we knew that her homecoming was only a possibility, and we didn’t want to get everyone too excited if it didn’t happen. Her doctor has high hopes that Tuesday will be the day, and hopefully Hank won’t be too far behind. They are growing so fast—Hank is 5 lbs. 12 oz. and Hayden is 5 lbs. 1 oz. They are taking about 2 oz. of formula every 4 hours, although Hank has been known to take 2.5 oz. (oink!). Thanks so much for your prayers--we couldn't do this without you!

Good eaters

Talked to the nurse earlier today. Both babies are doing great. Hank is down to 20ml of oxygen, and she's going to try to take him off of it later today. He's our unpredictable child, so it's a coin-flip as to how he will do. Both babies are acting like they want more food after they've finished their bottles, so she's going to ask the doctor if they can increase the amount they eat each feeding. They are beginning to wake up every three hours now in anticipation of eating, which is a good sign. They may try to start stretching them out to 4-hour feeding intervals soon. Hayden has made it to the 5 lb. mark, and Hank is packing it on at 5 lbs. 12 oz.

**Hank and Hayden want to say "hello" to Ms. Amy's 4th grade class at ASC--thanks for the card, letters, and drawings! Maybe y'all will get something in the mail from H&H, too!**

Go Hayden!

Miss Hayden is still breathing completely on her own. She was so pretty tonight. They had even taken the little circle stickers off of her face (they were the things that held the nasal oxygen tube in place). It was our first time to see her with absolutely nothing on her face. If I think about it, I'll try to upload some pictures of her in the next few days--BEWARE! They'll make you smile uncontrollably! Hank was wide awake for over an hour tonight. He took in every inch of that NICU. I usually play "school" with them when I'm feeding them--teaching them to spell their names, how to count to 10, what the cow and pig say, etc. So tonight, Jay was feeding Hank, and I told him that he needed to teach him something while he was eating. So Jay proceeded to teach Hank how to spell "supermodel"! Just skipped right over "dog" and "cat". We didn't get new weights tonight, but last night Hank was 5-10, and Hayden was still 4-15... It looks like Hayden is pretty close to being at home in her nice, big nursery--movin' on up like George & Weezie Jefferson! And if Hank doesn't slow down on his eating, he's going to just walk right out of there! He's getting so big (funny how size is relative--we once thought 2 pounds was HUGE!). We had a fun shower tonight hosted by Jay's boys soccer team. We got tons of great stuff, and we are so thankful for all of you who care about us and the twins. We have all witnessed two little miracles, and we can't wait for you to meet them.

04-04-04

We finally got new weights on the twins. Since they've been taking so many bottles, they haven't been gaining weight (sucking burns all the calories that they eat). Last night, Hank weighed 5-9, and Hayden was 4-15. She's almost to the 5 lb. mark, and she is doing so well. They took her off of her oxygen last night about 8, and she's still off of it now at noon. Maybe she'll stay off this time. Hank is just Hank. He's kind of stuck in the same spot, not making any signicant progress but not falling behind either. We're so ready to bring them home, and I'm getting a little impatient. I know they're in the best place right now, but we've got an empty nursery just waiting for little babies to fill it. They were 11 weeks old yesterday (would have been 37 weeks gestation), so we're getting close to their due date of April 25. Thanks for hanging in there with us!

Baby M

Hank & Hayden are both doing well still. The little girl that's been in the bed next to them for over a month passed away this morning. I don't know the details because the nurses aren't allowed to give out information on other babies, but it was unexpected, and I'm just very, very sad. If you think about it and you still have our babies on your prayer list, please replace Hank & Hayden's names with the family of Baby M in your prayers tonight. I only met them once--the night she was born--and I don't know anything about them, but I'm sure that wherever they are they need comfort and strength. Thanks so much.

Different personalities

Sorry I haven't updated. As the time for the babies to come home draws near, we've been very busy preparing for their arrival--tons of little things to take care of around the house. We got to see little Hank take a bath last night. It was our first time to see him completely naked without any tubes or sensors or anything--just precious. He weighed 5 lbs 7.6 oz, but we didn't get a new weight on Hayden. She was weighed after midnight, and we didn't call to check. They are doing so well, and it so fun to watch their little personalities emerge. I think I've said before that Hank is extremely laid back, and Hayden is very feisty. Hank is so lazy--he can be wide awake when we get there and wide awake for the first half of his bottle, but the second his first burp comes out, the eyes close, and he's out cold. He does manage to finish his bottle, but you can't wake him up for anything and he just sighs like it's the best formula he's ever had. Hayden does not like to be wakened. She squirms and grunts and snorts and turns beet red. And they are both so smart already. While I'm feeding them they learn their ABCs, their address and phone number, and they can even spell their names! Smartest kids in the whole NICU, I tell ya! We're still looking for someone to keep them at our home starting in August, so let us know if you can think of anyone. Have a wonderful day!

Look ma, no tubes!

For some reason, the site was down last night, and I couldn't update. Sorry. Great news, though. We finally got to see Hayden's pretty little face without those nasty tubes. She stayed off of her oxygen for 12 hours yesterday! We are so excited. She had to be put back on less than 20ml at 3 this morning, so I expect her to be off her oxygen again soon. Hank is still on 40ml, and I hope this will give him some incentive to pick up the pace. They are taking all bottles now--no more tube feedings, unless they try a bottle and don't take it. Everything is going so well, and we are so fired up! It shouldn't be long before they get to come home. The nurses needed the big bed that H&H were in, so they had to take them out and put them in separate smaller cribs. The nurse assured me that they can still see each other, though. I don't know if that's true, but it makes me feel better. Y'all have a great day!

Growing like weeds

Our babies are getting so big! Hank weighs 5 lbs. 3 oz., and Hayden weighs 4 lbs. 10 oz. They are now getting a bottle at every other feeding and seem to be doing well at it. Hayden sucked her bottle (1.3 oz.) down in 5 minutes. They took her off of her oxygen today, and she lasted about 3 hours. She was even off while she bottle fed, but after they put her back down she decided that she needed it again, but she's only on 20cc of it--very minimal. They tried to take Hank off of his, but he only lasted 3 minutes. He's just on 40cc, which is still good. Hayden's chest x-ray showed that she has no more BPD (bronchopulmonary dysplasia). Hank still has a little. BPD is caused by the mechanical ventilation and supplemental oxygen they have received. It's a catch-22 since they needed the vent and still require oxygen to breathe, but those things cause damage to their delicate lungs and impair their natural healing process. (Don't I sound so smart??? Really, I'm just copying that out of my preemie book!) Thanks so much for all of your prayers. I can't wait for y'all to see these little miracles in person!

Copycats

We had a good, long visit with the babies last night. They took their bottles so well, that the nurse might recommend to the dr that they get more than two bottles a day. Once they are taking a bottle at every feeding, and continuing to gain weight (sucking a bottle requires so much energy) then they are one more step closer to home. My prediction is that Hayden will come home first, since she requires much less oxygen than Hank does right now. But they seem to compete with each other quite often, so who knows what will happen. They were both so cute last night. Every time Hank would do something, Hayden would do it right after him--sneeze, smile, whatever... Y'all have a great weekend--I know we will--we can't wait to sleep late tomorrow!!! Thanks for checking on us!

No visit last night...

We didn't update last night, since we didn't get to see the babies. They were admitting a new baby to the NICU, so they closed it down while they got that baby settled in. That's a normal occurrence, so we understood... but it's still no fun not to get to see them. Hank weighed an even 5 lbs. and Hayden was exactly 4 1/2 lbs. Jay has a meeting in Jackson today, so he'll check on them while he's over there, then we'll head over there tonight. If it's not too late, I'll update when we get home tonight.

Hank needed some coffee...

Both babies are doing well tonight. Hank had a spell this morning where he dropped his heartrate to 40 and his oxygen to 40%. It took them a while to get him back up to normal, then they gave him some caffeine, and he seems to be doing well now. He just needed his morning cup of coffee! We can pretty much say that he is 5 lbs. now (he's actually .2 ounces under). Hayden is moving on up at 4 lbs. 7.6 oz. Sorry I didn't update yesterday... sometimes there just aren't enough hours in the day... Thank y'all for keeping up with us!

Both are past 4 pounds!

We're still hanging in there. Hank is up to 4 lbs. 12.8 oz, and Hayden is at 4 lbs. 2 oz. We fed them their bottles at 6 this evening and are now back home at a reasonable time. I think I'll take advantage of it and hit the sack early. Have a great week!

A couple of scares....

Everyone is still doing well. Hank and Hayden do a pretty good job taking their bottles for us, but some of the nurses have had some trouble with them. Last night and tonight, both H & H were turning blue and not breathing well during their feedings. That can be pretty scary for Jay & me. Successful bottle feeding comes with time, but we're so impatient because we want them home! H & H are in an open crib now--actually they are in the same bed they've been in, but they've lifted the top up. We wrap them up like little burritos, and they just sleep and sleep. We found out that day-care is out of the question for preemies like ours. They don't need to be around other children and get their cooties, because their immune systems and lungs are so immature for the first couple of years. So, please pray that we can find someone dependable who'll love our children and take very good care of them in our home. Thanks for staying interested in us!

Jay's #2 #2...

Hayden & Hank are doing great. We fed them their bottles tonight and "kangarooed" again. They are so precious, and we love just looking and them and inspecting all of their pieces and parts. Jay got another poopy diaper from Hank tonight (I'm so excited!). Hayden has finally hit the 4-pound mark, and Hank is 4-8.8. If she keeps up her weight for another day or so, they'll lift the top of their bed up, and they'll begin to sleep in the open air (the bed they're in provides extra heat for their little bodies, since they don't regulate their temps very well yet). Just another step closer to coming home. Hayden is on just a tiny whiff of oxygen, and Hank isn't far behind her. It will be so nice to see their sweet faces without any tubes attached! Please pray that they will continue to eat well without dropping their heartrate or oxygen saturation, and that they will begin to take more than just 2 bottles a day. Pray that their dependence on oxygen will continue to decrease and that we won't see any long-term effects of Hank's brain bleed. We can't wait for y'all to meet them!!!

Happy St. Paddy's Day!

Hayden's finally drinking a bottle!!! Her nurse gave her one this morning, and she did really well with it - took the whole thing. So, I gave her another one this evening, and she sucked it down in 10 minutes. Hank is still enjoying his bottle. Jay finally got his first poopy diaper tonight. It was great! At first, Hank's diaper was only wet, and the second Jay touched him with the wet wipe, he started pooping and didn't stop. It got on Jay's hand and Hayden's leg. It was everywhere! I loved it and even broke out the video camera. The kids are going to hate me when they're older! They are doing really well and are on even less oxygen today. I'm not sure Hayden really needs her oxygen, since her prongs stay out of her nose. She's constantly pulling them out, so I don't think she's getting very much benefit from it. She weighed 3-15 again, and Hank went up to 4-8. It looks like they might be coming home within the next 2.5 to 4 weeks. Please pray for them to continue to progress well toward coming home, especially without oxygen or monitors or anything. Thank you all so much!

Kangaroo Who?

Tonight we got to "kangaroo" the twins. This means that we held them on our bare chests. Studies have shown that kangaroo care helps improve the babies' oxygen saturation, heartrates, etc. All four of us enjoyed it tonight. The babies slept peacefully, and they were so warm and snuggly. Hank weighed 4 lbs. 6.6 oz. and Hayden weighed 3 lbs. 15.4 oz. Hank sucked down his entire bottle of 38ml in about 15 minutes. We found out today that he has a heart murmur. It could be caused by a flap valve that isn't closing or a hole in one of the filling chambers. It's a wait-and-see thing, so that's what we'll do. Hopefully, it will resolve itself in the coming months. Please keep all of us in your prayers!

Hank loves to eat!

Both babies are still doing great. Hank is a champion bottle feeder. He sucked down all 35ml tonight. We tried Hayden again, but she still wouldn't suck the bottle. She'll suck her pacifier all day long, but she won't have anything to do with the bottle. Hank weighed 4 lbs. 4 oz. last night, and Hayden was up to 3 lbs. 13 oz. Hayden had a routine chest x-ray today, and Hank had a routine echocardiogram. We hope to get the results tomorrow. They will both get their 2-month shots on Wednesday. It's hard to believe it's been that long since they made their grand entrance. Hayden is on a tiny bit of oxygen still, and Hank is on more oxygen than her, but way less than he started out on. It seems that she is the better breather, and he's the better feeder. Please pray that she will figure out this bottle thing and start gaining more weight, and that Hank will begin to rely on his oxygen less and less. Also, pray for good results on their tests they had done today. I wish you all could see them in person, to know just how much your prayers have worked. It's a miracle that we've made it this far without any major difficulties. Of course, the effects of Hank's brain bleed will not be known for some time, probably years. Many have asked exactly what a brain bleed is, and what it means in the long run. Hank's was a Grade 3, which can cause nothing at all or something as severe as cerebral palsy. You can read more about it at http://www.peds.arizona.edu/neonatology/ivh.html

Roommates

Hank took his first bottle tonight!!! His sweet nurse decided that he might be able to try a bottle. We didn't expect him to take very much of it, since it was his first time, but the little booger took the whole thing--a little more than an ounce! We've got quite a chunk on our hands, since he now weighs 4 lbs. 2 oz. Hayden tried her bottle, but preferred the lazy way of eating--the feeding tube. She loves her pacifier, though, so I guess they'll try a bottle on her another day. She weighed 3 lbs. 12 oz. We got some good lovin' from them tonight--poor Hank was worn out after sucking on that bottle. He just sacked out afterwards. I took some pictures last night, and I've put them in the gallery... Enjoy!

Comparisons

We didn't update last night because we didn't get back to Vicksburg until about 11:30, then we worked on the nursery, hanging the window treatment and putting the finished touches on the furniture. We had another fun visit with the twins. I can't say enough just how CUTE they are. It is the sweetest thing to watch them sleeping together, holding hands. They woke up when we changed their diapers, and they just looked at each other like, "Hey, I know you!". Apparently, they aren't always that sweet - the nurse said that Hank had been hitting Hayden earlier, and it looked like he knew exactly what he was doing--how funny! Jay & I sat next to each other while he held Hank, and I held Hayden. We put their little heads together and really got to inspect them. It's so neat how different they are--he's got an olive complexion while her skin is very fair and pink. He has dark, thick hair and long dark eyelashes. Hayden's hair is very fine and light, and she has hardly any eyelashes (and no eyebrows like her mom). The nurses all think Hank looks just like Jay, and Hayden looks like me. As far as their skin color goes, they're right. But I think Hank looks like Jay's nephew, Wes--especially the dimple in his chin. Hayden looks just like my baby pictures. I can't wait to get them home, so folks can see them in person. Cute, cute, y'all! Just cute! (New pics are in the gallery)

H & H are in the same bed!

They put them together Tuesday night after we left, and they loved it. They slept soundly, and even touched each other some. They even had clothes on tonight for the first time... so cute! We held them for about an hour, and they slept the entire time. They were wide awake when we first got there, though. I can't wait to get them home to show them off! Thanks for keeping up with us--we love y'all!

What a fun night!

YAY!! Jay & I got to hold BOTH babies at the same time. I wish you all could have seen them together, all wrapped up in the same blanket. They were so cute! We took a lot of pictures, but they were with "real" cameras, so I have to get the film developed before I can put them on the site. Hayden had her little hands all over Hank's face. He didn't try to touch her though, because we all know that girls have cooties. ;) They did really well and seemed to enjoy being together again (we could tell by their oxygen saturation, heartrate, etc.). We're both so excited, I'm not sure we'll be able to go to sleep. Hank weighs 3 lbs. 14 oz.--such a big boy. Hayden weighs 3 lbs. 9 oz. and had scooted all of the way to the top end of her crib and turned herself completely sideways when we got there. She has been nicknamed "Scooter"... I hope it doesn't stick! I think they will try to bottle feed the twins next week. Tonight, Jay & I "fed" them (we held the syringes that contain the formula that their feeding tubes are attached to). Hank's nurse put a few drops of formula in Hank's mouth to let him taste it to see if he would start trying to suck, but he wasn't interested. Jay took care of Hayden tonight, and I took care of Hank. Jay dodged another bullet tonight, because Hank's diaper was nasty! He'll get a good one one of these days... Thank y'all so much for the prayers... I hope you can see how they are working... Y'all must be praying for us, too, because we thought that their time in the hospital would drag on, but it's really flown by. And we've only gone crazy a few times! ;) Okay, I'VE only gone crazy a few times! Jay's pretty much been just Jay. Whew--what a night--I'm going to try to settle down from this high I'm on. I hope to have pictures up by the end of the week (I hope they're good!). Y'all have a great day!

Zzzzzzzzz...

Hank & Hayden were sleeping soundly when we visited tonight, so we didn't disturb them. We just watched them sleep--what funny faces they make! We got lots of good news tonight--both of them are on minimal oxygen flow. The highest flow is 2 liters, which is what Hank was on last night, and has been on since he got off of CPAP weeks ago. Tonight Hank was on .5 liter, and Hayden was about .2 liter. I think Hank feels a little bit of competition with his sister back next to him, so that's why he's started doing good all of a sudden. Neither of them have their booger hoods anymore, and for the hour that we were there tonight, none of their alarms (heartrate, breathing, and oxygen saturation) went off. That's a first!!! And the eye doctor didn't find anything abnormal last night. Praise God!!! I think we're finally on the downhill stretch, and we thank you for all of your prayers!

Hayden's new home...

Hayden has moved to the step-down side of the NICU with Hank. She's in her own incubator, though, until they are a little more stable. It's nice to have them back next to each other, so we can keep an eye on both of them at the same time. She was wide awake tonight and very squirmy. I told the nurses if they weren't careful, my kids might just walk right out of there! They are both so wiggly! The eye dr checked them out tonight, and I'll know what he says tomorrow. Pray for good news! Have a great week!

Still gaining good weight...

Our babies sure are getting fat! Hayden weighs 3 lbs. 5 oz., and Hank weighs 3 lbs. 10 oz.!!! He has more than doubled his birthweight! They were sweet, sweet tonight. I called ahead to make sure the nurses saved weighing and diaper changing until we got there, so we could do it. Hayden is so strong. She can pick her head all the way up and look around. And scoot! That little girl can scoot like a champion! She almost looks like she's crawling. Hank is funny, too. He slept the whole time tonight, but you can tuck him in really good, and the next thing you know his left foot is sticking out. He's not comfortable unless he's got his left foot poking out of his snugglies. Y'all keep praying that Hayden will be healed of her staph infection (we think she is, but we aren't sure). That way she can join her brother in his bed. I can't wait to see them all cuddled up together!

Hayden's head scan came back normal. Hank's scan showed his ventricles being about the same or slightly smaller, but there definitely isn't any swelling going on. They will do another scan in a week or two. It doesn't look like I'll be visiting them tonight, either, since my cold is worse today. I hate not seeing them, but I'd also hate to pass my germs along to the twins or anyone else in the NICU. Jay is going tonight and will bring pictures back for me to see. I'll definitely go tomorrow--even if they have to put me in a bubble-boy suit, I'll be there!

Yuk

We didn't get to see the babies yesterday, because I have a nasty cold. I crashed after work yesterday and got some much needed sleep. We did call to check on them, and the nurses said that they were being quiet and good. I'll call to check on them after lunch, so I can get the results of Hank's head scan. Check back later!

Getting to act like parents...

We had a good visit with the babies last night. The nurses are really putting us to work now that the babies are more stable. We walked in, and immediately Hank's nurse told us to take his temp, change his diaper, and roll him over on his side while she took care of another baby. So I did. Meanwhile, Jay wandered over to Hayden's side of the room. When I finished with Hank, I went to check on Hayden, and Jay had already taken her temp, changed her diaper (another wet one--what luck!), and was in the midst of weighing her. We are learning so much about the care of our twins. Of course, it will probably all go out the window once we get them home. Right now, they are so sweet and sleep all the time. When they wake up, they just lie there with their eyes open and don't make a sound. They're probably just fooling us with their good behavior to make sure that we really want them to come home with us. Then once we get them home, they'll change their tune completely! Hank has another head scan today, so please remember him in your prayers. Hayden doesn't have any more staph infections right now, so please pray that we've jumped that hurdle. Have a great Wednesday!

Wild Man

Hayden & Hank are doing great. She weighs 3 lbs. 4 oz., and he weighs 3 lbs. 2 oz. Hank is keeping up his reputation as the "Wild Man". Last night he kept throwing his oxygen hood off of his head. The respiratory therapist said she found it turned upside down in the far back corner of the isolette with the hose detached. Hayden is sweet but feisty if you mess with her. Both staph infection sites have healed well, and they continue to watch her closely to make sure that no more pop up. Many people have asked when the babies will be able to come home. We are still planning for around their due date (Apr. 25), but it could be a little earlier or a little later. And they may not come home at the same time. It just depends on the baby, how well they are breathing, eating, and keeping their heartrate and body temperature stable. Thanks for everything, everybody!

Three Pounds!

For those who check the site daily, sorry we didn't update yesterday. Jay's U-16 girls soccer team had a tournament in Hattiesburg, so that's where we were. H & H have both surpassed the 3 lb. mark!!! Hayden is 3 lbs. 2.4 oz., and Hank is 3 lbs. 1 oz. I'm not sure of their lengths, but Hank looks alot longer and leaner than Hayden does right now. They are both getting some fat on their bodies and have recently grown some booty-cheeks (preemies that young don't have fat yet, so they don't have booty cheeks). Put your thumbs against each other side-by-side with the nails facing you, then look at the pads of them, and that's what their booties look like... so tiny and cute (but they were much easier to clean when they were flat)! Hayden is getting 25cc of formula, and Hank is getting 26. They are both still on the feeding tube, but they will get to try a bottle in a couple of weeks (they don't have the suck-swallow-breathe combo down yet). Everything seems to be going great, and we appreciate your continued interest in the babies! Have a great week!

Jay held Hayden

Jay held Hayden last night for the first time, and it was one of the sweetest things I've ever seen. When we left the hospital, Jay told me that he dares anybody to ever mess with her. Poor thing--she'll never have any dates--Jay will scare them all off! Hank was being sweet last night. He weighed 2 lbs. 13.6 oz., and Hayden has passed him up at 2 lbs. 15 oz. It's going to be so weird when they get to 3 pounds--that sounds HUGE! Their booger (oxygen) hoods seem to be doing the trick, since they both are sleeping soundly with no apnea spells. More pictures are in the photo gallery, so y'all check them out. Have a great weekend!!!

Great News!

There is no more blood in Hank's brain ventricles, and the swelling is continuing to decrease! I held and rocked him today, and he was so sweet. He and Hayden both have oxygen hoods now. They look like little astronauts! The oxygen coming throught the prongs in their noses dries them out, and they get really bad boogers. The boogers clog up their noses, which makes them have to breathe out of their mouths, and then they don't get enough oxygen. So, the hoods are supplying moist air to reduce the boogers. Hayden doesn't seem to mind her hood, but we'll see just how long the wild man stays under his!

Houdini Hank

Both babies are doing great today. The pediatric surgeon made an incision in Hayden's latest bump, got a lot of stuff out of it, and they'll pack it until it heals, just like the previous bump. She is handling it fine and was sleeping soundly when we visited tonight. We were under the assumption that Hank had been being a really sweet boy, but he turned back into the wild man today. His nurse went to check on him, and he had gotten completely out of his snuggly wrappings, turned perpendicular in his bed, and scooted all the way to the edge like he was going to come out of the port holes on the side of his bed. Where he gets the strength and energy when he's so tiny is beyond me! They did his head scan today, and we should know something tomorrow. I'll be visiting them in the morning after my checkup, so I should have an afternoon update for the site. Y'all keep on praying--they wouldn't be where they are without you!

Daddy's first diaper

What a big night for Jay!!! He fed Hank and took his temp. Then, he changed Hayden's diaper--his first!!! Lucky for him, it was only a wet one, but I'm sure he'll get plenty more chances for some dirty ones! We've got it all on video, too, and he is so proud! I had to change Hank's while he was on his belly - what a feat! They are both doing okay. We think Hank is getting tired of breathing completely on his own, so they may put him back on CPAP. Hayden's incision is looking great, so they aren't packing it anymore. Hopefully, she'll be off of the antibiotics soon, and we'll be over this hurdle. Have a great week!

Another lump...

I called to check on the twins earlier, and Hayden has another lump on her leg--same leg but on the back of her thigh. So I guess we aren't over that staph hurdle afterall. An infectious disease specialist is supposed to see her today or tomorrow, and we'll be sure to update when we know something. We'll be headed over tonight to see them, but it will be late, so depending on how tired we are when we get home will determine whether I update the site again. I started back to work yesterday, so I'm exhausted! Keep Hank's head scan tomorrow on your prayer list and add sweet Hayden back to it if you scratched her off thinking this staph was long gone! We appreciate you!

I finally got to hold Hank!!!

He was so sweet. He just looked around the whole time--taking everything in. The eye dr looked at them today and said that so far everything is normal. All of their other reports were good, too. Hank will have another head scan on Wednesday, so please stick that on your prayer list. We should have results on it sometime Thursday. I think I'm going to have to delete some entries from the guestbook, since it's taking forever for it to load. I'm probably going to delete the first half chronologically, then remove more periodically as needed. Your messages are not gone and forgotten, though. I've saved them all on my PC, so I can print them and put them in H & H's baby books. They are so loved, and so many people have been praying for them, so I surely want them to know that when they're older. You are all so special to us!

Hank's Big Move

What fun visits today! Hank got moved over to the step-down side of the NICU. He's in a big isolette all by himself now, but Hayden will join him when her infection has healed. He weighs 2 lbs. 11 oz., and she is at 2 lbs. 7.9 oz. I held her tonight, and she smiled and laughed at us. She really put on a show. I didn't hold Hank, but I did get him out of his bed and weighed him. I changed his diaper, took his temperature, and helped administer his tube feeding. Happy 5-Week Birthday H & H! WE LOVE YOU!!!!

We're back...

Thanks to Uncle G for updating the site while we were away! The babies are doing great... Hank weighs 2 lbs. 8 oz., and Hayden weighs 2 lbs. 6 oz. Hank is doing very well on his nasal cannula, and there are talks of him graduating to the step-down unit soon--YAY! As soon as Hayden gets over her infection, they remove her IV, and they determine that she's pretty stable, she'll join Hank in the step-down, too. They'll even put them in the same bed, so they can snuggle up with each other! As far as her staph infection goes, we have no idea how she got it, but it's healing very well, and she feels fine. Of course, it's no fun when they pack her incision with gauze, but she's been a trooper and is on a little bit of ibuprofen to ease the pain. She's been sleeping really well, so that tells them that she doesn't really hurt unless they're fooling with it. They call Hank the Booger Factory. His nose is always full of boogers, and they have to suction it constantly so he can breathe (in the NICU they call it a booger-ectomy!). The boogs are caused by the oxygen flow in his nostrils, but some babies are more sensitive to it than others, and he seems to be one of the more sensitive ones. They said they'd send the twins home with plenty of bulb syringes, so I can perform my own booger-ectomies at home--FUN!!! The babies are doing so well, and we know it's because of your prayers. God is so good! Y'all have a great weekend.

It's Staph...

The lump on Hayden's leg is a staph infection. They made a small incision into the infected area and removed pus and blood clots. Periodically this area will be swabbed to remove any infectious matter. Hopefully with your prayers this problem will go by the wayside as the others have. She will also be recieving blood this evening boosting her back into health. Other than that she is feeling fine and has been put on nasal cannula like her brother. Hank is up to 2 lbs. 7 oz., with Hayden trailing closely. Thanks for your continued interest and prayers. Have a Great Day!!!

Headin' out of town

Jay & I are headed out of town for a couple of days, so there may not be an update for tomorrow (unless I can get my brother to do it). Today, the babies are doing really well. They drained Hayden's thing on her leg and are doing a culture on it. I'll let everyone know what I find out. Their weights are the same, and they are both continuing to eat like crazy! Y'all have a great few days and keep checking the site. We appreciate it so much!

Busy, busy

Sorry I skipped an update yesterday. We worked on the nursery and didn't head to Jackson until late evening, so we got back in pretty late. H & H are really putting on weight due to the formula feedings. Hayden weighs 2 lbs. 4 oz. and Hank weighs 2 lbs. 5.7 oz. We're really excited and can't wait until they're big butterballs! The nurses say that they are competing with each other, since Hank is now on nasal cannula, and Hayden is back on CPAP. We will visit them tonight with Jay's sister Kendall and her husband Gil. How weird is it that our kids have 2 Uncle Gils? They'll call my brother "Uncle G" to avoid confusion. Anyway, we're all going to the rodeo and will visit before we go. If I have anything to update, I will, otherwise check back tomorrow. Thanks, everybody!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Hayden and Hank received so many visitors today as part of their Valentine and 4-week birthday presents. My mom, Maw Maw Gilbert, my daddy, Uncle Vernon, & Aunt Marie all visited this morning. Jay & I went over late this afternoon, and there were V-day cards in their beds from Daddy, LeWair, Nanny, and PaPaw Sam, and my mom gave them two little stuffed Boston Terrier puppies (just like our dogs D-O-G and Shug). H & H even had a present waiting for me next to their beds! I got two charms for my charm bracelet--a little girl with Hayden's monogram and birthdate and a little boy with Hank's initials and birthdate. I can't wait to put them on my bracelet and show them off. They were both doing good today. The hospital called this morning to ask permission to stick a needle in Hayden's lump thing to see if anything would come out. Her dr said he just couldn't stop obsessing over her, trying to figure out what it is, so he asked a pediatric orthopedist to come look at it to make sure she didn't have an infection in her hip joint. Nothing came out of the lump, so now the hip infection is ruled out. What a mystery! It looked better to me this evening, though. Her nose was getting irritated from the CPAP, so they put her back on the nasal cannula, but at higher settings (poor man's CPAP they call it). Hank has been moved up to 20cc of milk, but it seems that this Elsie the Cow is running low, so they've had to start them on formula. I'm taking a drug to increase my milk supply, so we'll see what happens over the next few days... Oh, well... I tried.... Hayden weighed 2 lbs. 1.6 oz. and Hank weighed 2 lbs. 3 oz. They look huge compared to some new twins that were just admitted that weigh 1 lb. 2 oz. They were born at 22 weeks and are so tiny. I can remember when ours were the smallest in the NICU, and I can't believe that a month has already gone by. We know that they are growing and getting healthier because of you and your prayers!

Boy, do we have some wild kids!

Hank was Mr. Wiggly tonight, while Hayden kept sticking her little booty in the air. She would grab her oxygen tube that goes in her nose and pull the prongs out and jerk on her feeding tube until it started coming out of her mouth. The nurses were all laughing at Hank, saying that when they change his diaper, the minute they get it off of him, he immediately puts both hands on his crotch. We actually saw him do that on one of our ultrasounds and have it on video. I guess he'll either be really modest, a baseball player, or a rapper. :) Hayden kept raising her head up off of the bed--I had no idea she was so strong. Her nurse told us that we'd be surprised at how strong they can be... she's had a preemie about the size of H & H roll over before! Not too long after she said that, Hayden tried to do it herself. She was on her belly and got her left leg up under her, extended it like she was trying to stand up, pushed her booty in the air and almost flipped over--AMAZING! It looks like we're going to have our hands full!!! Health-wise, everything is looking good. Hayden's bump thing is going down, but we still don't know what it is. Both babies weighed 2 lbs. 2 oz. today, and for those of you who are keeping track, they'll be 4 weeks old tomorrow. I can't believe it's been that long. Time flies when you're....exhausted ;) Thank you so much for your continued interest in our babies... We can't wait to be able to show them off to you!

Good news

We finally got some good news on Hank's head scan! It seems that the swelling is diminishing--yippee!! We're still cautious, and it will be years before we know the long-term effects of the bleed, but we are glad to finally have something go his way (besides his ability to eat like a horse!). We're still unsure of what is going on with Hayden's lump in her groin. Her bloodwork revealed that she does have an infection, so they started her on antibiotics. A pediatric surgeon was supposed to look at her this evening to give his opinion, but we haven't heard from him, yet. Thanks so much for your prayers... We don't know what we'd do without you!

Still puzzled...

Well, it doesn't look like it's a hernia, but they aren't sure exactly what it is. They had thought that it might be an ovary, but thankfully it wasn't because that would have warranted its removal. Basically, she has a swollen knot in the crease where her thigh meets her body. It doesn't seem to bother her, and her breathing and heart rate haven't been affected by it. They are just going to watch it and see what happens. One doctor mentioned that it could be a swollen gland or lymph node. Nobody's really quite sure what it is. Just keep praying that it's nothing major and will resolve itself without surgery. And don't forget about Hank's head scan results that we'll get tomorrow. I watched them do the scan today, but I had no idea what I was looking at, so I haven't a clue whether the results will be good or bad. We're tired and calling it an early night. Y'all have a great day!

What's wrong with Hayden?

We knew these boring days weren't going to last forever. It looks like Miss Hayden needs your prayers. We aren't for certain, yet, but we think she has a hernia and will be needing surgery possibly today. We're waiting on word from the urologist and will let you know as soon as we know something. We're hanging out for the afternoon at Jay's cousin's house in Jackson, so that we can be nearby if surgery is required. Please keep her in your prayers, and we'll keep you updated.

Bow-Head and a special surprise for Mom

I wasn't a very girly-girl when I was little (nor am I now), so I was surprised to see a hot pink bow in Hayden's hair when I arrived at the NICU! Apparently, one of the nurses put it in her hair today. I uploaded a pic to the photo gallery for all to see (scroll down and click the photo gallery link). We had a fun visit with the kids tonight. My brother Gil (aka Uncle G) and his friend Trisha met us at the hospital, and we had dinner after our visit. We had a good time. I got to take Hank's temp again, and I changed my first diaper. I got more than I bargained for, since I just thought it was wet, but he had a little package hidden inside for me--YUCK! I was still excited about it, though. He treated me with respect and didn't poop on me like he did the nurse last night... and it was the same one he had pooped on before! Must be something about her... Both babies were doing well. Hayden was off the CPAP, but she had too many apnea spells today, so she'll probably be going back on the CPAP tonight or tomorrow. Hank's head scan is tomorrow (results on Thurs. probably), so keep him in your prayers. Have a great day!

I'll have a teaspoon of milk, please...

It's another boring day... We visited with the babies this afternoon, and we spent a good amount of the time talking to the nurse practioner. She answered a lot of questions we had and was very easy to talk to. Hank weighed 2 lbs. 1.7 oz. and Hayden was 2 lbs. 0.6 oz. She is doing very well with her breathing, so she will probably go off of her CPAP and back on the nasal cannula tomorrow--just for an extra oxygen boost. They gave her some more blood yesterday, so she should start perking up from that soon. That means I'll get to hold her again! I don't know when I'll ever get to hold sweet little Hank. He needs to buck up and start breathing better, so I can love on the little booger! Hayden is getting 5cc every hour (that's a teaspoon)... Can you imagine a teaspoon of milk filling up your belly??? That's how small they are. Hank is getting 18cc every 3 hours, so she has almost caught back up with him. He'll get another head scan on Wednesday, so start praying now that we'll see a decrease in his brain bleed/swelling. They haven't seen an increase in his head diameter, so that's a good sign. Both babies need prayers for their lungs--that they will keep maturing, so they won't depend on anything to help them breathe. Thanks everybody!

Tiny set-backs

Today Grandma & Granddaddy Harrison went with us to see H & H. Both babies are up to 2 lbs. Now, that could change since they go up and down so often, but we're still excited about it. They have increased Hayden's feedings to 5cc an hour and Hank gets 18cc every 3 hours. No wonder they're growing! Hayden has joined her brother back on CPAP, so we were unable to hold her today. She had a few apnea spells last night and her heart rate had dropped, so they decided to help her out a little with the CPAP. Everything else pretty much remains the same. H & H are beginning to get Valentine presents from folks, since this is their first holiday... how fun! I guess I'll have to eat all the candy (darn). Everybody, have a great week. Thanks for everything!

Happy 3 Week B-day!

We had a great visit with the twins today. They had lots of special visitors--my dad, LeWair, Nanny, PaPaw Sam, Aunt Theresa, and Uncle Danny. Of course, they all agreed with us that they are the two most beautiful babies on the planet! I held Hayden again, and Hank got jealous, as usual. Maybe my holding her will give him some incentive to strengthen his lungs, so he can get back off the CPAP and be held again. Dr. Owens called us today with the news that Hank's head scan looks like the bleeding has stabilized. That's great news, but we still have to keep watching it week by week. Luckily, the weeks seem to be flying by--we should have these babies home in no time! Hank's a big enough boy now to start getting vitamins. I asked the nurse if they were Flintstones, but she didn't seem all that amused and explained to me that it was a liquid that was added to his milk. Like I thought they were chunking a big Dino in his little mouth... it must've been a long day for her or something. Thanks again for all of your prayers. Keep up the good work!!!

Gaining weight

Sorry for the late update. After Jay & I got back from our visit with the babies, I plopped down on the couch and am just now getting up. Both babies were doing well today. I held Hayden again today for about an hour, and she was as sweet as ever. Again, she had her eyes wide open the entire time. Hank was getting jealous in his bed. He squirmed and cried trying to get some attention, but we can't hold him again until he's breathing completely on his own like his sister. Hank did make it to 2 lbs. today. Of course, the way they fluctuate he could go back down tomorrow, but it is a small victory, and we're so proud of him. He's up to 15cc of milk every 3 hours, so he definitely ought to be putting on weight. Hayden is getting 4cc every 1 hour continuously, so we should see her gaining weight soon. Today, she was at 1 lb. 13.6 oz. They did Hank's head scan today, but it was late in the afternoon, so we hope to have results tomorrow. We are so overwhelmed by all the people who are checking out the website and signing the guestbook. We wish we could email each one of you to thank you personally but that would take forever! Please know that we are so very grateful and will forever be indebted to you for the prayers you have lifted up for our children. We wouldn't be where we are without you!

Getting used to this...

I was able to hold sweet Hayden again today. Hank has gone back on CPAP and has been a little unstable, so we were unable to hold him. Hayden was wide awake the whole time and really tried to focus on Jay & me. Her eyes would move from one of us to the other with the sound of our voices, so that's a good sign. They didn't do Hank's head scan today. There was a mix-up, and it will be done tomorrow instead. We had a great visit with them both. Hank held hands with Jay while Hayden and I rocked and talked girl-talk. I'll be sure to update tomorrow on the status of Hank's head scan as soon as I hear something. Y'all keep praying out there--It's working!!!

Oh Happy Day!!!

We got to hold our babies today!!! I can't tell you how excited this momma is...how wonderful to finally love on my babies! I actually only held Hayden, and Jay held Hank, but it was still amazing. We'll switch tomorrow, and I'll hold Hank while Jay holds Hayden. We just didn't want to over-stimulate them. Hayden was awake the entire time I held her, and she looked into my eyes the whole time. I'm sure she couldn't really see me, but I'm going to pretend she could--makes me feel better! I told them about the moo cows we saw on our way to Jackson and the green grass and the blue sky, the white clouds, the yellow sun... I know they thought they were already in school... Gotta start making them smart sometime! I'm on Cloud 9 and probably won't be able to sleep tonight knowing what's in store for tomorrow! Until then, please keep us in your prayers--that we'll have many more days like today. Also, Hank has another head scan tomorrow, and we pray that it brings good news! Check out the photo gallery by clicking the link at the bottom of this page for some more pics of the babies... Enjoy!

Breathing alone....

Both babies are off of their CPAP and breathing completely on their own. Hayden has been doing so since today about 1:00 p.m., and Hank has been since midnight last night. They each have a nasal cannula that delivers supplemental oxygen to them. If they continue to do well through tonight and tomorrow, I may get to hold them tomorrow or Thursday. I'm so excited I can barely stand it! Hank is getting 11cc of milk, and they are adding calories to it to help him gain weight. Hayden is still on her continuous feedings and doing well. Hank didn't fuss one bit when his nurse changed his diaper tonight, but Hayden did, so they gave her a tiny little pacifier. She took about 3 or 4 sucks, which was enough to calm her down. They'll let me bring the pacifier home, so we can always remember how little they were (not that we'll ever forget!). Please keep our babies in your prayers, especially Hank's brain bleed and Hayden with her food tolerance. Thanks y'all!

Still off the vents...

We are getting used to these boring days and pray they stay this way. We visited the babies this afternoon, and they are still doing well. Hank's feedings have increased to 9cc, and Hayden is getting 2cc. Both were resting very well while we were there. They took Hayden off of her CPAP today to try to see if she would breathe with just a nasal cannula, but she only lasted 30 minutes. So, they put the CPAP back on, and she did fine. This marks Day 5 of their being off the vents, and I'm surprised they're still doing well. I'm sure we owe it all to you and your prayers. We are witnessing little miracles right before our very eyes, and we are so amazed. Keep praying for more boring days and for Hank's brain bleed to be resolved. The Man upstairs is definitely listening!