Beau is 2 weeks old!

Beau is really thriving at two weeks! He's such a chill kiddo. He's gained a pound since birth, and weighs in at 8lbs 4 oz. I nurse every three hours in the daytime and about every four hours at night. He's sleeping well in his crib, and of course we're loving the swaddle blanket! He is very tolerant of Lincoln's loudness and doesn't seem to mind all that we have going on around here. He accompanies me to the doctor, Target and the grocery store, and to Lincoln's school each day without a complaint. I'm really enjoying his portableness right now because I know one day he'll have an opinion about tagging along! I took a few fun pictures, but he likes to frown when I turn on the flash. I may have to invest in one of those fancy flash attachments that our friend Dale was telling me about. She's always got fun camera tips for me! Happy Two Weeks to Beau . . . it wasn't the two weeks I had imagined, but all is working out well.

One big difference

The difference between a two week old and a two year old . . .

The frequency of diaper changes is vast. Beau gets changed before and after each feeding, so about 14 times each day. Lincoln is pretty good about letting me know when he needs to be changed, or if he wants to teetee in the potty, and this is definitely less than 14 times each day. Either way, I change a lot of diapers!!!!

Another Great Day

Just looking cute today . . . we had a lazy day. Everyone took great naps, we got lots of shopping and cleaning done, and there was plenty of playing.

(I kind of think this is Beau's George W Bush look, don't you agree?!?!)

Silly Saturday

Lincoln is a very silly boy these days. He loves to be silly and make us all laugh. Sometimes we catch him being silly (when he doesn't want us to see him), and he gets all embarrassed. He's at such a fun age, especially when the "terrible two tantrums" aren't around. He had lots of fun at Clare's birthday party. After warming up a bit, and after Mommy and Daddy got in the bounce house, he really enjoyed it! (I'm quite sure my doctor wouldn't approve of me jumping in a bounce house just a few days after surgery, but it was fun!) Jane was showing Lincoln her seat-drops, and he was imitating her.

Beau makes plenty of silly faces while he's drifting off to sleep. I love the smiles!
Bubbles got lots help with his video camera this weekend. Lincoln LOVED to view people through the screen. He would wave endlessly at the person the camera was pointed at. What a fun game . . . and only one a grandparent would allow! I'm keeping our video camera far away from those grimy, clumsy fingers!!!

Brother Playtime

Big Brother Linc is loving this Baby Beau thing . . . he gets lots of new stuff to enjoy, too! He thoroughly examined the gym while Beau looked on. I guess it passed inspection because they played under there for quite a while. It was so cute watching them together. I'll enjoy every minute of this because it won't last forever. Before I know it, one will be in a headlock and the other will be tattling!!!

Getting in the Groove

After a delayed start, we're getting in a good groove. Beau is eating and sleeping on a normal schedule - usually eating every three hours and sleeping very well. Since we couldn't nurse for the first week, we've had some catching up to do in that department. He's gotten so much better in the last two days, so we're pretty much off the bottles. He seemed especially happy after one particular meal . . . wonder what I ate that he enjoyed so much . . .

The boys got to spend some brother time this evening, and it was so cute. Linc brought his books in to be near Beau, I guess. He occasionally offered him the pacifier or stopped reading to yell something in Beau's ear. You know when you're trying to talk to someone who doesn't speak English, and you yell? That's how Linc talks to Beau!!! Anyway, I'm glad they got to hang out a little.

Beau had his first "regular" pediatrician visit today. Since Dr. K hadn't even gotten to meet him in the hospital, we went to get checked out at his office. Beau got a clean bill of health, and Mommy was assured that he's a perfectly normal kid. We also picked up Linc from school today, so we needed to wash off any potential germs picked up from the busy day. (Seriously, where are there more germs than a pediatrician's office and a preschool?!?!) Beau did great during his first bath and shampoo. I told Linc that Beau was going to get a bath after we finished his. He thought for a moment and then told me that Beau could use his Abby Cadabby toothbrush. What a great brother!!!!! I told him Beau would like that very much!

Home Sweet Home

I nervously made my way to Medical City early this morning, in hopes that Beau had successfully taken all feeds by bottle overnight. Of course - awesome little eater that he is - he took them all like a champ! We waited (im)patiently all day and were finally able to bring Beau home early in the afternoon. After a long nap, it was time to meet Big Brother Lincoln. Here is Lincoln checking him out for the first time. (Beau was still sleeping in his crib.) A smile is a good sign!

Lincoln politely introduced Beau to his friends, Ernie and Elmo. Linc didn't want to get too close at this point, but it had only been a few minutes into their introduction. No need to rush! Lincoln directed us all into the playroom, so I brought Beau and sat down on the floor. Almost immediately, Linc came over and said, "Hold the Baby Beau." I think he likes him!

Someone is loving this!

He didn't hold Beau long, but came back after just a few minutes and said, "Linc one more time hold Beau." This cycle was repeated several times, each time with Lincoln enjoying it more and more.

Cutest. Picture. Ever. Nana and Pops came over to visit, and Linc needed to show them he could hold Beau too. He was so sweet. Well, I'm glad day one went well. I can't imagine what day two will bring, but I'll find out soon! Linc is going to school most days to keep his normal routine in place. I don't want him to miss out on playing with his friends and doing fun activities, and Beau and I will get some special bonding time. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers . . . I've got proof they worked sleeping in the next room!

Another Day Closer

What a marvelous day Sunday turned out to be . . . Beau has made such great strides that the doctors are discussing kicking him out! I went for the first feeding of the morning and was met with the good news by our favorite NICU nurse. If we could just get him eating without the feeding tube, we'd be home free! I nursed him at nine and noon, successfully but slowly, and with the help of a bottle to top him off. Nursing is a little slow and tedious right now, but he can sure gulp the bottle down. I've supplied enough breast milk for the entire NICU in Beau's little fridge, though he's not leaving much to share! So here's the deal:

Sunday: ate without the feeding tube at 9, noon, 3, and 6. (He needs to take the next four by bottle as well.) Received Hep B shot.

Monday: scheduled circ from Dr. M. He'll need to teetee after that. Will need last hearing screen.

If all of these go well, we'll be bringing home our little man. All the prayers are working, and I'm so excited that he'll be home soon. The staff is telling me Tuesday at the latest . . . stay tuned!!!

Apparently he isn't a fan of the overhead light while he's sleeping - check out his reaction!

Lincoln had a super day of playing, even though I missed most of it due to my endless trips back and forth to Medical City. Daddy has taken over meal times for Linc, and they're getting used to dining as a couple. Daddy is also in charge of wardrobe - always a surprise! I did manage to enjoy a bit of outside time with him, and he was showing off his new Jeep. Nana and Pops surprised him with the new wheels, and he's quite the driver already. Notice he takes his friends Elmo and Ernie along for the ride . . . every time!!!

I'm not quite sure this is the correct way to use the Jeep, but he really thought it was cool to stand in the back.
It's been the longest week ever . . . last Monday seems like an eternity ago. I'm so hopeful that tomorrow goes well, and we'll soon introduce Linc and Beau. There will be lots of pics, don't worry!

Busy Times

Life is a complete whirlwind right now . . . I'm trying to keep track of the millions of events and emotions going on. I'll start with a Lincoln update this time. He's doing great without having to rely on Mommy all the time. He and Daddy do fun stuff like go to Home Depot and eat pretzels with cheese. I'm glad they are having fun, so I don't feel so guilty about running back and forth to the hospital all day. Gymnastics is always a favorite, and Linc had an especially good time today. He and his buddy, Patrick, jumped like crazy! I'm not my normal crawl-around self, but I can make it up and down from the floor just fine. Lincoln is very excited to have my full lap back . . . no more giant belly in the way when he wants to sit down. We've looked at lots of books since I've been home.

On to the Beau updates - Kevin was able to hold him for the first time Saturday morning, and it was wonderful for everyone! I think he forgot how little babies can be, and he was kind of nervous about all of the wires and tubes. He tried to give him back after just a few minutes, but the NICU nurse wouldn't take him back. She assured Kevin that they were doing fine!

On Friday night, Beau got moved to a big boy crib! He didn't need the warmer or other gadgets on the other little bed, so he graduated! He's got a bit of diaper rash right now, I think because he messes his diaper a lot. I told the nurse today that my boys go before, during and after a feeding, so she should be prepared!

In fact, he's doing so well that his oxygen tube has been removed!!!! Free to breathe all on his own, and he's doing great! His respiratory rate has been consistent, and we're so proud! The nurse moved his feeding tube from his mouth to his nose, so we can get a better look at just how cute he is! I think he's looking a lot like Lincoln these days. (Not the best picture - he flinches at the flash on my phone!)
Not having a feeding tube in his mouth makes our other adventure much easier . . . I began nursing him on Saturday morning! It was a pretty good first effort, though I'm not sure he got anything from me. They were giving his feeding through the tube at the same time, so he didn't go hungry. The second time was much better. He seemed to really get it! I can try three times on Sunday, so I'm sure he'll be a pro soon. We are so blessed that he's getting stronger so quickly. All of the millions of prayers for Beau are being answered, and we're so grateful. We're a few steps closer to being home as a family of four, and we can't wait! Lincoln is especially getting ready . . . this morning he got the broom and dust pan from the laundry room and walked straight to Beau's room. Kev asked what he was doing, and he answered, "Sweep Baby Beau's room, Daddy." OK!!!

Not Just Any Old Day

I would never have imagined a day like today, but we made it through and even had a few smiles before it was over. I was discharged from the hospital this morning and had to make the longest walk . . . . away from the hospital and away from Beau. I don't think I saw much of the ride home through my tears, so good thing I'm not allowed to drive right now! He was sleeping soundly when we left, and I was anxious to get home, get unpacked, get pumping, and get back to see him. Beau had a good night and his oxygen had been lowered to 40%, which was great news. He looked calmer than ever, but a little lonely in that little plastic box he's in. The (first) best part of my day was that I got to hold him during his feeding (still through feeding tube) and for an extra couple of hours during his nap. It was heaven!!!! I tried to take our picture, and there's no describing the joy I felt!

I loved feeling his little breathing and smelling his wonderful baby scent, and I could just imagine millions more moments like this one (in our comfy house, not in the NICU). Our friend Eric saw this picture and summed it up perfectly: For that moment it appears the world is back in alignment. I couldn't agree more! The Doctor's report was great for Wednesday night and into Thursday. She is pleased with Beau's progress and was glad to approve my snuggle time! She also noted that his resting "work of breathing" is close to a normal newborn, but his awake rate is still pretty fast. His latest chest xray shows less "fuzziness" so it looks like he's developing the surfectant needed to keep his little lungs open. We're hopeful for more great progress in the next few days. I still haven't been able to go in Beau's room at home, and there have been several "moments" of breakdowns today. I will be so thankful when he's home with us, but I am so thankful each minute that he's being taken care of so well. I said a prayer over him today and will continue to do so, knowing he'll be home with us soon.

After such a wonderful day, we headed to pick up Linc from school. He was elated to have both Mommy and Daddy there! He ran down the hall showing us all the fun stuff he likes to do and got to ride the merry-go-round three times! The (second) best part of my day was just sitting outside in the warm sunshine blowing bubbles with my little man. He would occasionally come give me a hug and say "Awww." It was precious! It has been great for all of us to be back home together, and I know Lincoln will take full advantage of this "transition" time. He's loving on his Mommy a lot, and I love it!

So keep praying for us and know that I am grateful for each one of those prayers.

Update on Baby Beau

After a LONG but comfortable and easy pregnancy, Beau arrived as planned on Monday morning. Since I ended up with a c-section last time, we went for it again and were enjoying the benefits of having it all go according to schedule. The nurses checked him over right away then called in two respiratory specialists after determining that he was breathing at a crazy fast rate. We went through recovery and got to my room as normal then the Head Neo-Natalogist arrived! It was scary, but we were glad to know what was going on with Beau. At the time, we were hopeful that he just had some fluid in his lungs and could clear it in the next 12-24 hours. It was weird not having a baby to nurse right away, but I got straight to pumping a couple of ounces and enjoyed resting a bit. Tuesday brought lots of emotions, as I got to see Beau for the first time since a few seconds in the delivery room. He was breathing so fast, and it was overwhelming that he was in the NICU with such sick and tiny babies. We had lots of times on Tuesday where we didn't know anything that was going on and felt completely helpless. I wasn't having any more success with the breast pump on Tuesday and barely got half an ounce which was very frustrating. Beau seemed to be in a horrible state on Tuesday night, and we were freaking out. He was still breathing crazy, he had started shaking all over, his color had gotten splotchy, and he just seemed to be in a bad state. I think this is when I realized he wasn't just getting a little fluid out and things were more serious. I knew I wouldn't be able to take him home with us on Thursday when I was discharged, and I couldn't understand that! Things reached a frenzy when I discovered I was pumping blood at 2:00 am on Wednesday morning. Luckily Wednesday would turn into a better day for everyone. We met again with the head of the NICU and talked about Beau's issues. He hadn't made enough surfectant in his lungs (common of preemie babies), so he couldn't get the sacs open and hold any air. This usually begins increasing after the second or third day. The plain oxygen wasn't saturating in his body, so they switched to humidified oxygen which has helped. He's got more color, especially in his extremities which were turning blue! The breathing is still wildly fast, but will improve as he makes more surfectant and can hold in more air. His heart is perfect and handling all the extra work wonderfully. He can't eat regularly, so he's got a feeding tube. (We can't work on breast or bottle until he gets the breathing under control.) Just talking with the doctor and getting more clear information was reassuring, and seeing Beau get seemingly calmer throughout the day was incredible. I met with the Lactation Specialist to work on the bleeding issue, and we got that under control. My milk came in today and Beau is happily enjoying it at each feeding! Another few visits with Beau today made me feel that we're on the right track. He's still got a long ways to go before coming home to us, but I feel much better than yesterday. Everyone we talk to is telling us the same time frame for his recovery. I so hope they're right, and we'll have our sweet boy at home with us sometime next week. This picture is from Wednesday evening. He was getting mad at the nurse for changing his diaper . . . already too much like his brother!!

Allyson took this picture on Monday, and you can really see what he looks like. He has my hair, dark eyes and Lincoln's same nose, but we're not sure about the rest. He's such a cutie! He likes to pull out the tubes, so they try to keep him swaddled.
Lincoln has been good through all of this drama, and we're all trying to keep him on a normal schedule with school, bathtime and bedtime. He's been going to school each day (except Monday) then heading to Mommy's room for a visit. We usually can play a bit unless someone comes in the room. He freaks out when I'm in the bed, have anything hooked to me, or if there's a doctor/nurse in the room. He just doesn't fully understand, and it scares him. We're trying to keep him calm and out of the way of those things. He does love playing at the hospital though. He and Bubbles spent some time working on the tv/dvd player, so he could get his Elmo movie on. He likes walking around the hospital, the elevators, and bossing us all around. He got a cool gift today . . . a manual breast pump! Don't even ask me how to use that - I use the fancy double-electric speedy one. He loves it and thinks it must be to blow bubbles! He and Daddy are having a good time bonding, and I know they're fine without me for one more day.
I'm ready for our new "normal life" to begin, though I don't know what that is! I miss being home with them and will be desperate for Beau to join us soon. We're all just ready to be together. I am praying that we all get through this quickly, and that everyone can be healthy and strong soon.

The Debut of Beau Thomas Kuhlman

Beau Thomas Kuhlman

7 lbs 4 oz

20 1/2 inches

Beau is getting a little extra attention from the Medical City Staff. Hope to have a family picture soon.

Old Favorites . . . Ready fo New Ones

I couldn't sleep (imagine that!), so I thought I'd look through a the old Lincoln pictures. Here are a few of my favorites. We're getting ready to make lots of new ones today . . . off to the hospital to meet Baby Beau!!!!!

Playground Time

Linc and I spent some time at the playground doing "Big Kid Stuff" before Baby Beau arrives on Monday. He was ok in the big swing and held on for dear life! We can't go as high or as fast in the big swing, but it sure makes him look cool!

Linc satisfied his love of climbing while we were there. He's not fearless, but he loves to climb.
Such a big boy!

We had lots of fun, the weather was perfect, and we had the whole playground to ourselves. It has been nice to do a few fun "Lincoln" things lately. Life is about to get a little more interesting around here . . .

Last Few Solo Songs

Lincoln decided we needed a concert tonight! First up was "The Wheels on the Bus" and it got really good! He was really into the motions and serious about doing it all! The wipers on the bus go swish, swish, swish . . .

I told him to say cheese, and this is the face I got:

Totally precious, but not the smile I was looking for. We sang lots of songs before taking a break to play ball. I am really cherishing these moments before Beau joins us . . . on Monday!!!!! I can't wait, but I know life will never be the same. There will always be time for singing with Lincoln; he'll just have to get used to having a brother singing along with him!

Afternoon with Elmo

The big day finally arrived . . . no, not Baby Beau's delivery . . . Lincoln went to Elmo Live!!!! I had been debating whether he was old enough to enjoy it for a while, but we decided to go for it. I can put that debate to rest because he definitely enjoyed it! Linc was dressed in his best Elmo shirt and Elmo socks, and we drank from our Elmo cup and ate Elmo shaped crackers on the way there. Obsessed, much? (I should be getting major tax deductions from all I've purchased from the Sesame Non-Profit!) We got there early and hit the gift shop for a t-shirt and Ernie plush. He has several Elmos already, so I made the executive decision to get Ernie. He loved it immediately!

We found our seats and got ready for the excitement to begin. I can't imagine what Lincoln was thinking. We kept telling him we were going to Elmo's house and all his friends would be there, but I'm sure he couldn't put that into context. Soon Burt and Ernie came out to start the show!

Look at this face of pure happiness . . . and notice the death-grip on Ernie. It stayed that way most of the show. Occasionally he would let go to clap, but Ernie didn't go far.

The whole gang was there, and Lincoln shouted at each one. Every time one of the characters would leave the stage, Linc would hold his hands up and say, "Where Ernie go?" or "Where Big Bird go?" We kept assuring him they would each be back soon.

I guess I didn't properly explain intermission because Lincoln busted into tears when we headed for the bathrooms. Luckily he calmed down and understood that it wasn't over. Everyone made it back, and Linc was dancing in his seat and in my lap by the end.
We really got a kick out of watching Lincoln take this in. It was nice to do something just for him, since it's been pretty "Beau-centric" around here lately.

He laid in bed and talked about Elmo and the gang for half an hour tonight. We listened to him sing "That's Elmo's World" on the monitor a million times and talk about all that he saw. What a wonderful day!