Monday, October 22, 2012

Ben update

In our last installment I mentioned a renewed effort at breastfeeding Ben.  Well, I'm going to declare success!  Breastfeeding doesn't have to be perfect to be successful, right?  I'm more than willing to discuss the details with any of my girlfriends who'd like more info, but basically Ben's getting everything directly from me, no bottles!

yes, he's sleeping again, but I thought this one was cute w/ his tongue sticking out :-)


At his check-up with our pediatrician this morning his weight was not what I hoped, but the Dr. is satisfied.  Ben's still trucking along on the 25th percentile on the DS weight chart, so as long as he doesn't drop his ranking we'll be o.k.  He's messing plenty of diapers and has longer chunks of alert time during the day.  Ben seems content with his food intake so I have to be content with his tininess :-)

So, a big "Thanks" to everyone who encouraged us, prayed, and helped with tips and advice!  I have to say, shortly after bringing Ben home I would have bet against us getting this breastfeeding business worked out.  I'm surprised at how well he's doing at it!  And I actually don't think I would have been all that disappointed if we had to switch to formula.  There are millions of babies who are fed formula and grow up to be healthy, smart, fully functional human beings.  Bottles have benefits too, like being able to leave the baby with a sitter, letting Daddy do some of the feeding work, and mom not having to feel like she's part dairy cow for a year or more!  But I'm so enjoying Ben, settling into more of a "groove," and thankful for God's provision!

Friday, October 12, 2012

Baby Ben is one month old!

Eyes open!


He's still a tiny little guy, but has gained a whole pound since birth - now up to 7lbs 11oz.  This puts him somewhere around the 30th percentile on the Down syndrome growth chart.  He saw the cardiologist today and got a good report.  Just a tiny hole in his heart, but nothing that will cause any symptoms or require treatment.  I'm redoubling our efforts at breastfeeding -- I'd really like to switch him over from the bottles so I can stop using the dreaded pump!  All in all we're doing so well!  So thankful he's a healthy boy and a good sleeper at night.  Can't wait to start seeing smiles from this guy!