Kelli has opted to stop breastfeeding altogether, and she is already feeling better physically. Her post-partum depression has eased off as well. (Of course, I've been spending a great deal of time with her, so why would she be depressed? Except maybe for the fact that I am the living embodiment of squandered marital dreams...)
Before giving up, we tried one last-ditch effort at dealing with the problem head on. We tried to call Tom Cruise. We were both greatly moved by Mr. Cruise's sensitivity to his friend Brooke Shields as she struggled with PPD and by his well-reasoned and thoughtful insights on the subject in his interview with Matt Lauer. Unfortunately, we only reached a phone message that repeated over and over in a sedated voice: "Katie is magnificent. She is very excited about her engagement to Tom and the birth of their first child. Please do not tell her otherwise. Katie is magnificent."
Sunday, October 30, 2005
What's the Frequency, Kenneth?
Here I sit, shame-faced, humiliated. Like Dan Rather, I find that my integrity has been sullied by misconceptions and lack of thoroughness. I am guilty of spreading disinformation. In case you've been sleeping under a rock for the last decade, disinformation is the information age term for what the old folks call lying. My lie was not deliberate, but one of mistaken presumptions. Nevertheless, I am humbled and must seek the forgiveness of you, my friends and family.
So, here's the truth: we were not in the same birth suite for both Savannah and Cooper. I know many off you may be rending your clothes, covering yourselves in sackcloth and ashes, perhaps even partaking in some aptly timed self-flagellation over the dismay you just experienced at this revelation. I won't ask you to mask your grief and anger, but I will ask you to avoid any expressions of disappointment that might leave a scar.
We checked the video last night from Savvi's birth, and it turns out we were actually in room 307 last time, two doors down from this trip. I promise that, from this moment forward, I will endeavor to communicate only truth from this blog, except of course in the use of hyperbole. And, as you know, I can't type a full paragraph without hyperbole. It's a Southern thing.
So, here's the truth: we were not in the same birth suite for both Savannah and Cooper. I know many off you may be rending your clothes, covering yourselves in sackcloth and ashes, perhaps even partaking in some aptly timed self-flagellation over the dismay you just experienced at this revelation. I won't ask you to mask your grief and anger, but I will ask you to avoid any expressions of disappointment that might leave a scar.
We checked the video last night from Savvi's birth, and it turns out we were actually in room 307 last time, two doors down from this trip. I promise that, from this moment forward, I will endeavor to communicate only truth from this blog, except of course in the use of hyperbole. And, as you know, I can't type a full paragraph without hyperbole. It's a Southern thing.
Saturday, October 29, 2005
Bowel Stalemate Breaks
Birmingham, AL -- Mediators were successful Friday night in their attempts to break the days-old stalemate in the cold war showdown between Cooper Franklin and the region of Colon. Conditions in the area had soured in recent days due to Franklin's introduction of soy into the Lower GI, traditional homeland of the ultra violent Bowel Movement. The showdown had resulted in a blockage of all major thoroughfares in the region.
The mediation relied heavily on an introduction of the fleet -- a Fleet enema. An intervention fueled by BabyLax eased tensions in the area and re-established the flow of... trade.
The mediation relied heavily on an introduction of the fleet -- a Fleet enema. An intervention fueled by BabyLax eased tensions in the area and re-established the flow of... trade.
Lessons on Hog Slaughtering
On Wednesday, I accompanied Savannah on a field trip to Old Baker Farm in Harpersville, home of The Pumpkin Patch. We picked cotton (free child labor -- brilliant!), took a hayride, picked pumpkins and petted farm animals. While we were checking out the 300-pound pot bellied pig, a grandmother of one of Savvi's classmates approached me. Here is a rough transcript of our conversation, and I swear I'm not making this up:
Grandmother: That one's too fat to run around the house.
WF: Yeah.
GM: That's what mee-maw used to do, run 'em around the house.
WF: Really?
GM: Yeah, she'd run 'em round and round the house, get their heart rate up before she slaughtered 'em so they'd bleed out real fast. I seen her do it a hundred times.
WF: That's interesting.
DM: Oh, yeah, she'd run 'em round and round the house, get they hearts beating, then she'd bash 'em over the head with with a shovel. Then she'd slit the throat, and they'd bleed out real fast, cause they're hearts are beating so fast. Then they'd tie a rope around the feet and pull it up over a limb with the tractor. That's where they'd start cleaning it.
WF: Hmm. (Walks away.)
No punchline needed.
Grandmother: That one's too fat to run around the house.
WF: Yeah.
GM: That's what mee-maw used to do, run 'em around the house.
WF: Really?
GM: Yeah, she'd run 'em round and round the house, get their heart rate up before she slaughtered 'em so they'd bleed out real fast. I seen her do it a hundred times.
WF: That's interesting.
DM: Oh, yeah, she'd run 'em round and round the house, get they hearts beating, then she'd bash 'em over the head with with a shovel. Then she'd slit the throat, and they'd bleed out real fast, cause they're hearts are beating so fast. Then they'd tie a rope around the feet and pull it up over a limb with the tractor. That's where they'd start cleaning it.
WF: Hmm. (Walks away.)
No punchline needed.
Friday, October 28, 2005
Baby Blues
Kelli's fighting post-partum depression this week. She had a very mild case, or the "baby blues," after Savannah. Around 9pm every evening, she would be hit with a sudden crying fit. After about 90 minutes, it was gone. This time is different. She is very emotional whenever she's awake, and she knows it's for no reason. Still, she can't control it.
The only thing that makes her feel better is my presence which, let's face it, is true of most women. I've had to let myself go a bit physically just to stem the tide of women attacking me on the streets demanding to carry my child. Being a bona fide sex god is a burden, but I promise to use my power for good and never for evil.
Kelli's depression set in on Wednesday along with nausea and a lack of appetite. New friendship level alert: these symptoms coincided with Kelli beginning to actually breastfeed Cooper, as opposed to pumping. We took Cooper in for a check of his biliruben levels (dropping, yea!), and Dr. Stone suggested that Kelli might have to cut back or even eliminate breastfeeding. We then went to an appointment with Dr. Sharp, whose suggestions were similar.
Tonight, she told me that she had decided to quit breastfeeding and pumping altogether. She cried when she told me. I hate this for her, because she was so excited about how well she and Coop were bonding through the feedings. I hope and pray that she will be able to resume when she regains her strength.
The only thing that makes her feel better is my presence which, let's face it, is true of most women. I've had to let myself go a bit physically just to stem the tide of women attacking me on the streets demanding to carry my child. Being a bona fide sex god is a burden, but I promise to use my power for good and never for evil.
Kelli's depression set in on Wednesday along with nausea and a lack of appetite. New friendship level alert: these symptoms coincided with Kelli beginning to actually breastfeed Cooper, as opposed to pumping. We took Cooper in for a check of his biliruben levels (dropping, yea!), and Dr. Stone suggested that Kelli might have to cut back or even eliminate breastfeeding. We then went to an appointment with Dr. Sharp, whose suggestions were similar.
Tonight, she told me that she had decided to quit breastfeeding and pumping altogether. She cried when she told me. I hate this for her, because she was so excited about how well she and Coop were bonding through the feedings. I hope and pray that she will be able to resume when she regains her strength.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Savvi & Coop
Savannah has been very excited about her little brother -- a little too excited maybe. She always has to be touching him. As much as she wants to help out, her enthusiasm overwhelms the modicum of common sense that a four-year-old possesses. "Savannah, don't squash your brother." "Savannah, you're going to dislocate his shoulder." "Savannah, stop eating his hand." "Savannah, babies are not jump ropes."
Here are some really cute pics of the two of them:
Here are some really cute pics of the two of them:
Saturdays Rock!
I'm not talking about the day of the week, which is obviously superior to the previous five days, especially during football season. I'm talking about Aaron and Jenna Saturday. The Saturdays go to church with us and are part of our Sunday evening small group (or Life Group.) They took the first shift of bringing us meals as we settle in with the Coopster. I should mention here that Aaron has his own catering company. And not just any catering company; Aaron caters the skyboxes at Bryant Denny Stadium. That's like being the chef at the Vatican, as far as I'm concerned. Better, actually.
So Aaron shows up here last night, and I'm expecting a couple of covered dishes. Instead, I find myself helping him carry something that looks like a portable oven by Rubbermaid. He swings the door open and pulls out a catering pan with some chocolate chip cookies, then a bag of rolls and another pan, this one full of green beans almondine. Next came a pan of Dreamland ribs (manna for the modern man). I thought he was done. Then out came pulled pork BBQ, baked potato casserole and baked beans. Our entire countertop was covered with food!
Now the Saturdays are expecting a new baby themselves, which leaves me wondering how I can ever repay such a kind gesture -- not that it was done with thought of repayment. Right now, I'm thinking we should prepare them at least a similar meal. Better yet, we could take them food and provide waiters to serve it. Nah, not good enough. I have to remodel their kitchen. I have to take them meals for a month to be served by a 24-hour-a-day wait staff in their remodeled -- and expanded -- commercial-grade designer kitchen. Or maybe I should buy them an RV. I'm not really sure how an RV would help with a new baby, but I've got to do something.
I was going to hook up with some of my tailgating buddies for celebratory cigars last night, but instead I had them come here to help us with some of the BBQ. We never actually got to those cigars. Maybe this weekend.
Thanks to Aaron and Jenna for making our week. Well, for making our week better. I think the whole baby coming home thing actually made our week.
So Aaron shows up here last night, and I'm expecting a couple of covered dishes. Instead, I find myself helping him carry something that looks like a portable oven by Rubbermaid. He swings the door open and pulls out a catering pan with some chocolate chip cookies, then a bag of rolls and another pan, this one full of green beans almondine. Next came a pan of Dreamland ribs (manna for the modern man). I thought he was done. Then out came pulled pork BBQ, baked potato casserole and baked beans. Our entire countertop was covered with food!
Now the Saturdays are expecting a new baby themselves, which leaves me wondering how I can ever repay such a kind gesture -- not that it was done with thought of repayment. Right now, I'm thinking we should prepare them at least a similar meal. Better yet, we could take them food and provide waiters to serve it. Nah, not good enough. I have to remodel their kitchen. I have to take them meals for a month to be served by a 24-hour-a-day wait staff in their remodeled -- and expanded -- commercial-grade designer kitchen. Or maybe I should buy them an RV. I'm not really sure how an RV would help with a new baby, but I've got to do something.
I was going to hook up with some of my tailgating buddies for celebratory cigars last night, but instead I had them come here to help us with some of the BBQ. We never actually got to those cigars. Maybe this weekend.
Thanks to Aaron and Jenna for making our week. Well, for making our week better. I think the whole baby coming home thing actually made our week.
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Why Women Hate My Wife
Kelli checked her weight this morning. She's down to 114. She was 137 last Monday prior to Cooper's delivery. That's 23 pounds lost in one week. (Of course, about 13 of those were lost during the c-section.) She is now three pounds below her pre-pregnancy weight, and she still has a little post-partum pooch. (Not to be confused with the previsouly mentioned pouch, which she opted against.) I, on the other hand... Let's just say I've had to dust off the fat pants.
Sleeping With Allen J. Bennett
We didn't get much sleep last night. Cooper apparently took well to being at home, because he added another feeding to the schedule he had been on in the NICU. We got to bed around 1:30 or so. We were hardly asleep before he began to stir. Our thought was that maybe he was uncomfortable in his co-sleeper. Nope. He was hungry. He took as much in that feeding as he had taken two hours earlier. We settled in again around 2:30, maybe later. It wasn't long before he stirred again. In our sleep-deprived stupor, it took us a while to figure out that it was cold in the house. We fired up the heater for the first time this fall. Cooper should sleep soundly, we thought. We were wrong. Shortly after 5:30, we fed him yet again, and he almost ate as much as in the previous two feedings. Luckily, Savannah slept late today, so I did a get a couple of hours sleep.
So there we were most of the night, restless and sleepless, all four of us: Cooper, Kelli, me and Allen J. Bennett. No, we're not living "the lifestyle." So, who is Allen J. Bennett? Honestly, we don't know. About five years ago, Kelli's mom bought us some nice sheet sets for our bedroom. I don't know what percale is, but I think the sheets had some. Anywho, as we made up the bed with the charcoal grey linens, we noticed we had a visitor. At the head of the flat sheet, in yellow script, was the monogram "Allen J. Bennett." We never once considered sending the sheets back, because how often to you get bask in the ridiculous glow of personalized hubris?
What can we divine about this mystery man? Who is the real Allen J. Bennett? First, I think he is a short man. This is not based on any knowledge of psychology or sociology. It is based on a simple fact; I am a tall man, and I would never think of ordering sheets personalized with the name Allen J. Bennett. Therefore, he is short.
Secondly, I think Mr. Bennett is a lonely man. Anyone who puts his name on his sheets has made a declaration of his permanent bachelor-hood and his permanent datelessness. I mean, what self-respecting woman would join our friend Allen in his queen-sized shrine to self? And the sad part is, you know he thinks it's impressive. "Allen, I love your place. I wouldn't know all of these posters of you were by Glamour Shots if you hadn't told me so. And I've always wanted to be with a man on his own eponymous sheets." "They aren't eponymous. I washed them just for you." I don't see it happening. The only action these sheets would have seen is in the spin cycle.
Thirdly, Allen is a man of low morals. I know some people believe morals are relative, but there are definitely some finely-drawn lines. One of them lies between treating women as respected equals and trying to bed the ladies on monogrammed sheets. Any guy who puts his name on his sheets ain't joining the Promise Keepers, I'll tell you that much.
Finally, Allen J. Bennett has more money than common sense. Personalized sheets, people!
However, we have offered these sheets a better life. A life spent swaddling a loving, married couple. A life that has seen the addition of two new lives to this family. A life free of the shame of Allen J. Bennett. This is what we call "giving something back." To whom, we really don't know.
So there we were most of the night, restless and sleepless, all four of us: Cooper, Kelli, me and Allen J. Bennett. No, we're not living "the lifestyle." So, who is Allen J. Bennett? Honestly, we don't know. About five years ago, Kelli's mom bought us some nice sheet sets for our bedroom. I don't know what percale is, but I think the sheets had some. Anywho, as we made up the bed with the charcoal grey linens, we noticed we had a visitor. At the head of the flat sheet, in yellow script, was the monogram "Allen J. Bennett." We never once considered sending the sheets back, because how often to you get bask in the ridiculous glow of personalized hubris?
What can we divine about this mystery man? Who is the real Allen J. Bennett? First, I think he is a short man. This is not based on any knowledge of psychology or sociology. It is based on a simple fact; I am a tall man, and I would never think of ordering sheets personalized with the name Allen J. Bennett. Therefore, he is short.
Secondly, I think Mr. Bennett is a lonely man. Anyone who puts his name on his sheets has made a declaration of his permanent bachelor-hood and his permanent datelessness. I mean, what self-respecting woman would join our friend Allen in his queen-sized shrine to self? And the sad part is, you know he thinks it's impressive. "Allen, I love your place. I wouldn't know all of these posters of you were by Glamour Shots if you hadn't told me so. And I've always wanted to be with a man on his own eponymous sheets." "They aren't eponymous. I washed them just for you." I don't see it happening. The only action these sheets would have seen is in the spin cycle.
Thirdly, Allen is a man of low morals. I know some people believe morals are relative, but there are definitely some finely-drawn lines. One of them lies between treating women as respected equals and trying to bed the ladies on monogrammed sheets. Any guy who puts his name on his sheets ain't joining the Promise Keepers, I'll tell you that much.
Finally, Allen J. Bennett has more money than common sense. Personalized sheets, people!
However, we have offered these sheets a better life. A life spent swaddling a loving, married couple. A life that has seen the addition of two new lives to this family. A life free of the shame of Allen J. Bennett. This is what we call "giving something back." To whom, we really don't know.
Monday, October 24, 2005
Le Circ
Before we could leave the hospital today, there was one more little procedure -- the circumcision. (Coop, if you read this in the future, the word "little" was not intended as an insult.) We had wanted to watch the procedure, but Dr. Sharp encouraged us not to. I think Kelli and I both relented only to make Dr. Sharp feel better; we both still wish we had stayed. Either way, we did see Cooper before the slice and dice. He was on a warmer, but strapped down into a contraption called the... Wait for it... Circumstraint.
The Circumstraint (actually, Olympic Circumstraint) is basically a giant plastic cutlery tray, except instead of indentions shaped like spoons, it features an indention shaped like a baby. There are slits where the wrists and ankles lie for strapping the baby down. I suggested that the NICU could really cut down on square footage by using the circumstraints to stack the babies in pull-out drawers. They could probably stack them six or eight high. The nurse didn't care for it, but I know somewhere in Tokyo, this idea is getting serious consideration.
Typically, the babies get really upset during the strapping down process or because they are restrained. Not our little somnambulist. They also cry when they receive their shot of anesthetic, during the placement of the "bell" (as I understand it, this is like the bowl in a bowl haircut) and during the circumcision itself. Cooper cried when they put alcohol on the site. That was it. They permanently unsheathed his manhood and he only got upset about the cooling sensation. This is what Rambo must have been like as a baby.
We had to wait for his bleeding to stop before we could leave. When we got the green light, we intended to videotape Savannah's reaction upon seeing her brother for the first time in a week. The nurse seemed bothered by the fact that I would be videotaping rather than running ahead to get the car. Kelli won that stare-down. Not to be selfish, but we figured preserving that moment was far more valuable than the additional 60 seconds the nurse would have to wait with Kelli at the front door.
I don't think Savvi could believe what was happening at first, but she was very happy. I then had to run off and bring the car around, so I don't know what happened on their way out, which should please Nurse Ratchet. Savannah said the most precious thing on our way home, but I can't remember it because I'm exhausted. Maybe later. 'Night all.
The Circumstraint (actually, Olympic Circumstraint) is basically a giant plastic cutlery tray, except instead of indentions shaped like spoons, it features an indention shaped like a baby. There are slits where the wrists and ankles lie for strapping the baby down. I suggested that the NICU could really cut down on square footage by using the circumstraints to stack the babies in pull-out drawers. They could probably stack them six or eight high. The nurse didn't care for it, but I know somewhere in Tokyo, this idea is getting serious consideration.
Typically, the babies get really upset during the strapping down process or because they are restrained. Not our little somnambulist. They also cry when they receive their shot of anesthetic, during the placement of the "bell" (as I understand it, this is like the bowl in a bowl haircut) and during the circumcision itself. Cooper cried when they put alcohol on the site. That was it. They permanently unsheathed his manhood and he only got upset about the cooling sensation. This is what Rambo must have been like as a baby.
We had to wait for his bleeding to stop before we could leave. When we got the green light, we intended to videotape Savannah's reaction upon seeing her brother for the first time in a week. The nurse seemed bothered by the fact that I would be videotaping rather than running ahead to get the car. Kelli won that stare-down. Not to be selfish, but we figured preserving that moment was far more valuable than the additional 60 seconds the nurse would have to wait with Kelli at the front door.
I don't think Savvi could believe what was happening at first, but she was very happy. I then had to run off and bring the car around, so I don't know what happened on their way out, which should please Nurse Ratchet. Savannah said the most precious thing on our way home, but I can't remember it because I'm exhausted. Maybe later. 'Night all.
WE'RE GOING HOME!
Our nurse just came in and told us the good news! Someone's going to take care of the pee-pee slicing shortly. It may be Dr. Sharp, or it may be a sushi chef from Surin. At this point I don't care, because we're going home!
Thanks to everyone who has prayed for us over the last week. Kelli and I have faced frustration and weariness in the hospital stay, but never have we been fearful. Your prayers are the reason for that.
Philippians 4:6-7: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
The phrase "transcends all understanding" is true more than I can say. Once you've experienced it, you know with certainty that God is real, that Christ is alive and that he obviously loves and likes us.
For those of you who've enjoyed keeping up with our family through my rantings, the blog will live on...
Thanks to everyone who has prayed for us over the last week. Kelli and I have faced frustration and weariness in the hospital stay, but never have we been fearful. Your prayers are the reason for that.
Philippians 4:6-7: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
The phrase "transcends all understanding" is true more than I can say. Once you've experienced it, you know with certainty that God is real, that Christ is alive and that he obviously loves and likes us.
For those of you who've enjoyed keeping up with our family through my rantings, the blog will live on...
Another Hurdle Cleared
As of about noon today, the nurses are no longer testing Cooper's glucose levels! He's had 48 good hours of stable glucose, so that is no longer seen as a concern. I guess we're still going home tomorrow, but our nurse has suggested that today is a possibility. The only thing that I know that remains to be done is the foreskinectomy. No word on when that is going to happen.
Kelli still has staples in her abdomen. She's checking on when to have those removed. I told her to just consider them piercings and skip the removal. She's not buying. Think about it, that could be a great place to hang her keys. Or maybe they could install a pouch, so she wouldn't have to carry a purse. The options are endless, really.
Kelli still has staples in her abdomen. She's checking on when to have those removed. I told her to just consider them piercings and skip the removal. She's not buying. Think about it, that could be a great place to hang her keys. Or maybe they could install a pouch, so she wouldn't have to carry a purse. The options are endless, really.
Talk to My Agent
Cooper just had his first headshots-- uh, er, I mean portraits made. He was very laid back, as usual, and we got a cute photo of him. As part of the photo package we purchased, he will get a temporary page on St. Vincent's website. (How many websites does one newborn need?) We dressed him in pretty traditional baby blues rather than doing Bama gear. The problem is, most of that stuff looks like it's more for tailgating than portraits.
We all did well for our first night together. Cooper ate really well at most of his feedings, and between feedings he slept like a... well, baby. His sodium levels are back to normal, so that looks to have been a lab error. There has been a little bit of a concern about jaundice coming on, but his Lilly Ruben levels are only up slightly today. I don't know what ball gowns have to do with jaundice, but hey, I'm no doctor. All the nurses are hoping the neonatologist who is coming on today will tell us to leave. I guess my naked sleepwalking isn't going over too well back here...
Kel's parents left this morning. My mom is bringing Savannah up, and we're going to take turns spending some time with her.
After a week, many of you are probably beginning to suspect the truth -- there is no baby. That's right, it's all been a long, nine-month hoax for a reality TV series we are creating called "Alienate Your Friends and Get Written Out of Your Parents' Wills." It's a working title. For the photos and video, Cooper has been played by Deep Roy, the same little actor who played all of the Oompa Loompas in the new Willy Wonka flick. (We wanted to get Mini-Me, but talk about a diva!) Special thanks to the folks a WETA in New Zealand for teaching us all about forced perspective. For those of you who feel betrayed, that's the point! We just signed a four-year, 10-series deal with Fox. We can buy more friends. See ya, suckers!
Seriously, keep up the prayers. We want to go home.
We all did well for our first night together. Cooper ate really well at most of his feedings, and between feedings he slept like a... well, baby. His sodium levels are back to normal, so that looks to have been a lab error. There has been a little bit of a concern about jaundice coming on, but his Lilly Ruben levels are only up slightly today. I don't know what ball gowns have to do with jaundice, but hey, I'm no doctor. All the nurses are hoping the neonatologist who is coming on today will tell us to leave. I guess my naked sleepwalking isn't going over too well back here...
Kel's parents left this morning. My mom is bringing Savannah up, and we're going to take turns spending some time with her.
After a week, many of you are probably beginning to suspect the truth -- there is no baby. That's right, it's all been a long, nine-month hoax for a reality TV series we are creating called "Alienate Your Friends and Get Written Out of Your Parents' Wills." It's a working title. For the photos and video, Cooper has been played by Deep Roy, the same little actor who played all of the Oompa Loompas in the new Willy Wonka flick. (We wanted to get Mini-Me, but talk about a diva!) Special thanks to the folks a WETA in New Zealand for teaching us all about forced perspective. For those of you who feel betrayed, that's the point! We just signed a four-year, 10-series deal with Fox. We can buy more friends. See ya, suckers!
Seriously, keep up the prayers. We want to go home.
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Finally... Fun With the Parsley!
Kelli is an awesome woman! Any woman who would go along with this nonsense (enthusiastically at that) is tops in my book. Herewith, a detailed photo essay of Bell's Palsy, aka The Parsley.
A lopsided look of surprise. She is really trying to raise both eyebrows here.
A big smile.
Trying to close both eyes.
"Ooh" face. Notice how the left side muscles (camera right) overcompensate and pull her whole face to the left.
This is a subtle one (as our friend Mitchell Sargent says, "it puts the B in subtle".) She is trying to flare her nostrils, but the result is just a sideways nose.
A lopsided look of surprise. She is really trying to raise both eyebrows here.
A big smile.
Trying to close both eyes.
"Ooh" face. Notice how the left side muscles (camera right) overcompensate and pull her whole face to the left.
This is a subtle one (as our friend Mitchell Sargent says, "it puts the B in subtle".) She is trying to flare her nostrils, but the result is just a sideways nose.
In the Family Room
Since we're still technically in the NICU, we have to keep our cell phones off. If you want to reach us, call 205.939.7992.
Here are some pics from here in the room:
Here are some pics from here in the room:
Cooper and his Paw-Paw
That's right, dang it, I said Paw-Paw. This is the South. We can call grandparents anything we want. I could call him Squat-Nutter, BoBoJanks or Señor Squishy Pants if I wanted to. Given those options, Paw-Paw sounds down right dignified.
Anyway, Dad came up last night and got to spend some time with Cooper. Here's the photo evidence:
Anyway, Dad came up last night and got to spend some time with Cooper. Here's the photo evidence:
Long Time, No Blog
It's been a busy day so far, so we haven't had time to post. We visited Cooper this morning around 9. Adrienne told us that another nurse, Sarah, had gotten Cooper to take 80mL. We were all shocked. His blood sugar has been pretty good all day, and he has continued to take a full 2oz bottle on average at his feedings.
The rangers over at the lodge required us to be out of our room at noon, so we decided to let the grandparents visit with Coop while Savannah helped us load everything out to the car. At least, that was the plan. I was starting to load out when they arrived. (Did I mention that we didn't have any place to go at that time? I'll get to that.) I saw my mom and Kel's dad coming around the corner. When Savannah saw me, I was hoping for a big grin and a big hug. Instead, I saw that she was covered with vomit. Great.
We think she was dressed too warmly and got car sick, but we couldn't take any chances. We put one of Kelli's clean shirts on her and told her she had to go home. We were afraid to touch her too much. She started bawling. I hated to break her heart like that, but with so many preemies over here in the NICU, we had to be cautious. The last time we checked in, she was doing fine.
We got moved into a family room in the NICU around 2 this afternoon. Before I moved the car and loaded in all of our stuff, Kelli lay down on the bed, I on the sofa and Cooper in his crib, and we all took a nap. It was a wonderful moment. I just fed Coop a few minutes ago -- while watching the Seahawks game, I might add. Now he's asleep on his mommy's chest. The new plan is for all of us to go home on Tuesday. So, we'll be here for two more nights. The only thing that could delay us is a spike in Cooper's sodium levels that showed up on his last blood work. The doc is hoping it's a bad reading. We'll know soon.
The rangers over at the lodge required us to be out of our room at noon, so we decided to let the grandparents visit with Coop while Savannah helped us load everything out to the car. At least, that was the plan. I was starting to load out when they arrived. (Did I mention that we didn't have any place to go at that time? I'll get to that.) I saw my mom and Kel's dad coming around the corner. When Savannah saw me, I was hoping for a big grin and a big hug. Instead, I saw that she was covered with vomit. Great.
We think she was dressed too warmly and got car sick, but we couldn't take any chances. We put one of Kelli's clean shirts on her and told her she had to go home. We were afraid to touch her too much. She started bawling. I hated to break her heart like that, but with so many preemies over here in the NICU, we had to be cautious. The last time we checked in, she was doing fine.
We got moved into a family room in the NICU around 2 this afternoon. Before I moved the car and loaded in all of our stuff, Kelli lay down on the bed, I on the sofa and Cooper in his crib, and we all took a nap. It was a wonderful moment. I just fed Coop a few minutes ago -- while watching the Seahawks game, I might add. Now he's asleep on his mommy's chest. The new plan is for all of us to go home on Tuesday. So, we'll be here for two more nights. The only thing that could delay us is a spike in Cooper's sodium levels that showed up on his last blood work. The doc is hoping it's a bad reading. We'll know soon.
Saturday, October 22, 2005
4 Going on 24
That's the phrase some of the L&D nurses used to describe Savannah the first night we were here. Here are a few of the great Savvi quotes for the week:
"We're gonna have a baby!" In a sing-song tone, Savannah chanted this in the OB's office when we told her that Cooper was coming that day. This followed the immediate reaction, which was a Cheshire cat-esque grin combined with enthusiastic bouncing.
"Go Bama! Go Bama! Rooolllllllll Tide Roll!" Her pure excitement coming out as we drove back to the house to grab a few things before the delivery.
"Is that Cooper?" This is what she finally said after about thirty seconds of wide-eyed apoplexy upon first seeing her brother.
"Mommy, are you sore?" The first words she spoke to Kelli when Kelli returned to the room.
"I think he wants me." Her firm opinion about why Cooper cries.
"I'm holding him before he goes." She refused to let Cooper go to the NICU without spending a moment with him.
"Breastfeeding time!" She and I were playing in the L&D suite. I had helped her deliver a toy kitten which was tucked under her shirt. She was holding the kitten and talking sweetly to it. Then she pulled her shirt up to her chin and stuck the kitten to her nipple while shouting out this quote.
"Mommy, when I get big like you, can I see my brother?" I guess this is what happens after repeatedly telling your daughter that she can't visit her brother in the NICU because she's a little girl. This one nearly broke all of our hearts.
And today, when she talked to Kelli on the phone she asked the following three questions: "How is Cooper doing? How is he eating? How is his temperature?"
She's a wonderful kid. We are so blessed to have her.
"We're gonna have a baby!" In a sing-song tone, Savannah chanted this in the OB's office when we told her that Cooper was coming that day. This followed the immediate reaction, which was a Cheshire cat-esque grin combined with enthusiastic bouncing.
"Go Bama! Go Bama! Rooolllllllll Tide Roll!" Her pure excitement coming out as we drove back to the house to grab a few things before the delivery.
"Is that Cooper?" This is what she finally said after about thirty seconds of wide-eyed apoplexy upon first seeing her brother.
"Mommy, are you sore?" The first words she spoke to Kelli when Kelli returned to the room.
"I think he wants me." Her firm opinion about why Cooper cries.
"I'm holding him before he goes." She refused to let Cooper go to the NICU without spending a moment with him.
"Breastfeeding time!" She and I were playing in the L&D suite. I had helped her deliver a toy kitten which was tucked under her shirt. She was holding the kitten and talking sweetly to it. Then she pulled her shirt up to her chin and stuck the kitten to her nipple while shouting out this quote.
"Mommy, when I get big like you, can I see my brother?" I guess this is what happens after repeatedly telling your daughter that she can't visit her brother in the NICU because she's a little girl. This one nearly broke all of our hearts.
And today, when she talked to Kelli on the phone she asked the following three questions: "How is Cooper doing? How is he eating? How is his temperature?"
She's a wonderful kid. We are so blessed to have her.
Saturday's Pics
Here are some new snapshots we got of our boy today.
The most beautiful mother in the world, Parsley and all.
And why she married this doofus, we'll never know.
Roy looks like he's shopping for steaks. "This one look fresh?"
Did I mention Alabama is 7-0? Cooper gives a raspberry to the Vols.
And now he rests easy after a big Bama win.
The most beautiful mother in the world, Parsley and all.
And why she married this doofus, we'll never know.
Roy looks like he's shopping for steaks. "This one look fresh?"
Did I mention Alabama is 7-0? Cooper gives a raspberry to the Vols.
And now he rests easy after a big Bama win.
ROLL TIDE ROLL!
Seven and oh, baby! It wasn't always pretty, but it was the most beautiful thing I've seen on a football field in many years! I am reminded of the 1990 Tennessee game when Philip Doyle kicked a game winner at the end to take a 9-6 victory. Of all the coaches in Alabama history, I never thought I'd be comparing Shula to Bebes, but the last two weeks have looked like vintage Stallings-era Bama football.
We took over the entertainment room on our floor and made it our own personal living room. A little Jim n Nicks courtesy of the Leonards (and some backup BBQ leftovers from the Sanders), a 12-pack of cerveza and WAY too many snacks for three people fueled a microcosmic version of the frenzy in Bryant-Denny stadium.
And how about Condi Rice sporting the crimson? Between her, W's letter to Prothro and Joe Scarborough going all misty about the Capstone, it's almost enough to make me vote Republican. Almost, but not quite.
Kelli and I ran over to the NICU during halftime to kiss our boy. The nurse, Adrienne, threatened to turn us into the DHR, claiming that Cooper was a "halftime baby." Of course she was wearing AU colors.
To all my Bama family out there: ROLL TIDE ROLL! RAMMER JAMMER YELLOW HAMMER, GIVE 'EM HELL ALABAMA!
We took over the entertainment room on our floor and made it our own personal living room. A little Jim n Nicks courtesy of the Leonards (and some backup BBQ leftovers from the Sanders), a 12-pack of cerveza and WAY too many snacks for three people fueled a microcosmic version of the frenzy in Bryant-Denny stadium.
And how about Condi Rice sporting the crimson? Between her, W's letter to Prothro and Joe Scarborough going all misty about the Capstone, it's almost enough to make me vote Republican. Almost, but not quite.
Kelli and I ran over to the NICU during halftime to kiss our boy. The nurse, Adrienne, threatened to turn us into the DHR, claiming that Cooper was a "halftime baby." Of course she was wearing AU colors.
To all my Bama family out there: ROLL TIDE ROLL! RAMMER JAMMER YELLOW HAMMER, GIVE 'EM HELL ALABAMA!
Game Day!
The temperatures are cooler, there is a warm hue to the foliage on the northern slope of Red Mountain and I feel like my blood cells are especially crimson and white. It must be a football Saturday! Cooper is having a good day. His glucosi-chlorians are higher even than Master Yoda's! (Thanks David Adams for that line.) Dr. Bruce was just beginning his rounds as we left the NICU a few minutes ago. He expressed some concerns about the feedings, but Kelli was quick to point out how well he had just eaten moments earlier. One reason he ate so well, was that Kelli was able to pump an ounce and a half of breast milk for him. (To quote our dear friend, Missy Leonard, "this is taking our friendship to a new level." )
Alice and Roy came up for grandparents' visiting. Katie has been feeling a little under the weather, so she has had to stay away. I know it must be tough for her. My dad (Terry, since we're on a first-name basis here) is riding up with a friend today and may get to visit Coop tonight.
Roy will be back here soon to watch the Alabama-Tennessee game with us. Savannah opted for a trip to the pumpkin patch with her "Aunt" Paige, our friend Rachel Linderman and her two boys rather than come up with her Papa. Stood up by our own daughter! I'm sure it won't be the last time that she breaks a heart in this fashion.
I've been on the phone several times with our tailgate crew in Tuscaloosa. According to Ben Greer, my partner in tailgating crime, the Quad is packed like never before. They've had a few power issues because of some amperage hogs running too many crock pots, but it sounds like everyone is in great spirits. (Or into the spirits, more appropriately.) We hate that we can't be there with them, but I wouldn't be anywhere else.
To all those out there who care, let me say a hearty Roll Tide!
Alice and Roy came up for grandparents' visiting. Katie has been feeling a little under the weather, so she has had to stay away. I know it must be tough for her. My dad (Terry, since we're on a first-name basis here) is riding up with a friend today and may get to visit Coop tonight.
Roy will be back here soon to watch the Alabama-Tennessee game with us. Savannah opted for a trip to the pumpkin patch with her "Aunt" Paige, our friend Rachel Linderman and her two boys rather than come up with her Papa. Stood up by our own daughter! I'm sure it won't be the last time that she breaks a heart in this fashion.
I've been on the phone several times with our tailgate crew in Tuscaloosa. According to Ben Greer, my partner in tailgating crime, the Quad is packed like never before. They've had a few power issues because of some amperage hogs running too many crock pots, but it sounds like everyone is in great spirits. (Or into the spirits, more appropriately.) We hate that we can't be there with them, but I wouldn't be anywhere else.
To all those out there who care, let me say a hearty Roll Tide!
Friday, October 21, 2005
Frustration
We just took my mom and Kelli's dad over for grandparents' visiting hours. My mom and I got to hold him for awhile, then we swapped with Kelli and Roy. While Kelli was back there, she casually asked the nurse when she planned to check his glucose levels. The nurse acted surprised and said that no glucose levels had been ordered. Kelli very curtly explained that his glucose levels were the only reason he was still there. After much back and forth, Kelli finally convinced her to go check on it. Sure enough, she found the orders -- they hadn't been placed in his book.
This is really aggravating. We don't understand why, when his glucose levels came back so low this morning as compared to the last three tests, that he wasn't re-tested. Knowing that the test strips have a large margin for error, that nurse should have re-tested or sent a sample to the lab. And then to not put the orders in his book? It's very frustrating that, in all likelihood, our perfectly healthy child is being kept from his home and family because of a lack of thoroughness.
We're also really tired of this strict effort to force feed him at least 2 ounces at every feeding. Were we still on the OB floor, a half-ounce would be sufficient. With Savannah, we didn't follow a schedule, but fed her when she was hungry, until she was finished eating. Then again, we're kinda liberal that way.
We're going back at 1am to make sure he is tested and to handle his feeding. Pray that God will grant us patience and understanding when dealing with the nurses.
This is really aggravating. We don't understand why, when his glucose levels came back so low this morning as compared to the last three tests, that he wasn't re-tested. Knowing that the test strips have a large margin for error, that nurse should have re-tested or sent a sample to the lab. And then to not put the orders in his book? It's very frustrating that, in all likelihood, our perfectly healthy child is being kept from his home and family because of a lack of thoroughness.
We're also really tired of this strict effort to force feed him at least 2 ounces at every feeding. Were we still on the OB floor, a half-ounce would be sufficient. With Savannah, we didn't follow a schedule, but fed her when she was hungry, until she was finished eating. Then again, we're kinda liberal that way.
We're going back at 1am to make sure he is tested and to handle his feeding. Pray that God will grant us patience and understanding when dealing with the nurses.
More About the Lodge
I'm back in the room, and I've actually got a Wi-Fi signal. The trick is, I have to stand up against the wall with one foot propped on the bed and the iBook balanced on my knee. Luxury!
Cooper's doing great. We have him in his first Alabama gear. Crimson is definitely his color. I fed him earlier, and it was the first time he made it through an entire feeding without the nurses getting involved. He ate really well and even got some of his mother's milk. He gulped that down in a matter of seconds. Typically, he gets about an ounce into the bottle before he starts to fall asleep. And when it comes to sleep, this kid is an artist.
Also, a cardiologist did an echo of his heart to double-check on that murmur. Nothing. He's perfect in that area. His glucose levels were back up to 76 this afternoon. We're really hoping that the readings this morning were due to a bad test strip. That particular test was not backed up with lab work, so we really don't know. Dr. Bruce must suspect the same, as he has ordered that each test be done both with the handheld device and lab work.
Okay, my ankle hurts. I'm stopping now. Peace and love to all of you.
-w-
Wait! I also need to send out props to our nursing staff over on floor 3OB. Gina, Tammy, Lisa, Karen and so many others really made us feel cared for. You guys are the best!
Cooper's doing great. We have him in his first Alabama gear. Crimson is definitely his color. I fed him earlier, and it was the first time he made it through an entire feeding without the nurses getting involved. He ate really well and even got some of his mother's milk. He gulped that down in a matter of seconds. Typically, he gets about an ounce into the bottle before he starts to fall asleep. And when it comes to sleep, this kid is an artist.
Also, a cardiologist did an echo of his heart to double-check on that murmur. Nothing. He's perfect in that area. His glucose levels were back up to 76 this afternoon. We're really hoping that the readings this morning were due to a bad test strip. That particular test was not backed up with lab work, so we really don't know. Dr. Bruce must suspect the same, as he has ordered that each test be done both with the handheld device and lab work.
Okay, my ankle hurts. I'm stopping now. Peace and love to all of you.
-w-
Wait! I also need to send out props to our nursing staff over on floor 3OB. Gina, Tammy, Lisa, Karen and so many others really made us feel cared for. You guys are the best!
Reach Us at the Lodge
We are at the Centennial Lodge at St. Vincent's Hospital in room 215. You can call us in the room at 205.558.3835 or on one of our cells: 205.908.7030 for Kelli; 205.567.2825 for Wayne.
The New Digs
We're in the Centennial Lodge now, and as I suspected, it doesn't even come close to earning the lodge title. It actually feels more like a pre-fab suburban cult compound. Not that I've ever been in one of those... Really, I haven't.
The room is roughly the size of a doormat. They've jammed it full of the most ungodly faux-mission furniture. There's a rocking chair in the room that I honestly think would break your back if you stayed in it longer than six minutes. I've fallen into thickets more comfortable than this thing.
We were pretty excited to hear about the queen-sized bed, so we could actually lie together as husband and wife. (That does mean spooning, right? I'm no theologian.) What we didn't realize is that a bed that size would require that all the other furniture be suspended from the ceiling. I think it may actually be a king-sized bed that continues beyond the wall into the next room.
Either way, when you sit on this thing, it triggers some sort of quantum singularity that draws all matter to the center of the bed. We just had dinner on the bed (where else is there?), and because of its unique physical properties, our BBQ chicken, sauce, beans, potato salad and buns all collapsed into a bowl of BBQ-comforter gumbo in the middle of the bed. We just scooped the stuff up with some empty breast milk bottles and chocked it up to character-building.
There is wi-fi in the building, but not in our room. So I'm frantically typing this in the "entertainment room" at the end of the hall before my batteries die on the iBook. In this case, entertainment is defined as small hole of a room hanging out over 9th avenue south with more god-awful mission furniture and a 24" TV. Whoo-hoo!
Battery dying. More later.
The room is roughly the size of a doormat. They've jammed it full of the most ungodly faux-mission furniture. There's a rocking chair in the room that I honestly think would break your back if you stayed in it longer than six minutes. I've fallen into thickets more comfortable than this thing.
We were pretty excited to hear about the queen-sized bed, so we could actually lie together as husband and wife. (That does mean spooning, right? I'm no theologian.) What we didn't realize is that a bed that size would require that all the other furniture be suspended from the ceiling. I think it may actually be a king-sized bed that continues beyond the wall into the next room.
Either way, when you sit on this thing, it triggers some sort of quantum singularity that draws all matter to the center of the bed. We just had dinner on the bed (where else is there?), and because of its unique physical properties, our BBQ chicken, sauce, beans, potato salad and buns all collapsed into a bowl of BBQ-comforter gumbo in the middle of the bed. We just scooped the stuff up with some empty breast milk bottles and chocked it up to character-building.
There is wi-fi in the building, but not in our room. So I'm frantically typing this in the "entertainment room" at the end of the hall before my batteries die on the iBook. In this case, entertainment is defined as small hole of a room hanging out over 9th avenue south with more god-awful mission furniture and a 24" TV. Whoo-hoo!
Battery dying. More later.
Lodge Anyone?
Well... Cooper's glucose levels were great right up until the doc checked on him this morning, when it dropped from 86 to 44. I have no idea what those numbers mean, but I'll keep throwing them and other terms around as if I do. Dr. Bruce said Cooper needs to maintain at least 50 glucoses for 48 hours before they'll release him to the family room. We're hoping the glucosometer was on the fritz, but we can't be too careful. (Or maybe we can. Those kinds of phrases always confuse me. That's like saying "you can never eat too many Dreamland ribs." Does that mean I can eat as many ribs as I want? Or that I shouldn't eat too many? Anyway, I digress.)
Kelli and I are moving to the lodge today. That sounds a lot more rustic than I'm sure it is. We'll let you know. If there's a guy dressed as a park ranger working at the front desk, then maybe it earns the name lodge. It's probably more ECONO than YELLOWSTONE. Unless there's a risk of bear attack, the word lodge should not be used. But, this is Southside, so you can't rule anything out.
If Coop's glucosi-chondrians stay above 50 through Sunday, we'll all be headed home on Monday. I know that'll make Savannah happy, because she is ready to see her brother.
So, in the words of the enigmatic British solar racer, Desmond, from LOST, "you gotta lift it up, Brother." Say a prayer that Cooper's glucose quotient stays above the bare (or bear?) minimum of 50 glucosites for the next two days. If not, pray that the docs will figure out the cause of his fluctuating glucose saturation index factor... thing. Because you can never have too many glucosoids... Or maybe you can...
Kelli and I are moving to the lodge today. That sounds a lot more rustic than I'm sure it is. We'll let you know. If there's a guy dressed as a park ranger working at the front desk, then maybe it earns the name lodge. It's probably more ECONO than YELLOWSTONE. Unless there's a risk of bear attack, the word lodge should not be used. But, this is Southside, so you can't rule anything out.
If Coop's glucosi-chondrians stay above 50 through Sunday, we'll all be headed home on Monday. I know that'll make Savannah happy, because she is ready to see her brother.
So, in the words of the enigmatic British solar racer, Desmond, from LOST, "you gotta lift it up, Brother." Say a prayer that Cooper's glucose quotient stays above the bare (or bear?) minimum of 50 glucosites for the next two days. If not, pray that the docs will figure out the cause of his fluctuating glucose saturation index factor... thing. Because you can never have too many glucosoids... Or maybe you can...
Our Daughter the Writer
Savannah has been practicing her writing skills, which she showed off here in room 309. The grin is what she calls her "cheese face."
Pirates Didn't Always Recognize Their Doctors, Either
It's morning at St. Vincent's. A light fog hangs over the city and the hum of traffic from the Red Mountain Expressway increases as Jones Valley comes to life. Kelli slept with her eye patch last night, which has helped her eye stay moist. The rest of the right side of her face, however... She looks like a Botox experiment gone horribly awry. But there are absolutely no wrinkles on that side of her face. Soon, aging starlets everywhere will order elective Parsley as they drool and slur their way through their film roles. "I loul lide do dand de acadedy."
Dr. Goolsby, one of the OB's in Dr. Sharp's practice came by this morning. (The practice is Sharp and Stone. When spoken out loud, Kelli had a C-section done by sharpened stone.) Kelli began a rant about the NICU and why Cooper was there when he was perfectly healthy and how she needed his help if the situation continued. He then asked her who her pediatrician was. To which she replied, "I thought that's who I was talking to." Then she went on to blame it on the eye patch. The eye patch! Johnny Depp is rolling in his grave.
Wait... What? Okay, I've just been informed that Johnny Depp was not an actual pirate. And apparently he didn't wear an eye patch. But the rest is accurate. Wait -- what now?! He's not dead? How do you know? Alright, fine! If you're so smart, why don't you do the blog?! Sheesh...
Dr. Goolsby, one of the OB's in Dr. Sharp's practice came by this morning. (The practice is Sharp and Stone. When spoken out loud, Kelli had a C-section done by sharpened stone.) Kelli began a rant about the NICU and why Cooper was there when he was perfectly healthy and how she needed his help if the situation continued. He then asked her who her pediatrician was. To which she replied, "I thought that's who I was talking to." Then she went on to blame it on the eye patch. The eye patch! Johnny Depp is rolling in his grave.
Wait... What? Okay, I've just been informed that Johnny Depp was not an actual pirate. And apparently he didn't wear an eye patch. But the rest is accurate. Wait -- what now?! He's not dead? How do you know? Alright, fine! If you're so smart, why don't you do the blog?! Sheesh...
Goodnight, Good Morning
It's 1am, and Kelli and I are just getting ready for bed. We were settled into our beds an hour ago, but neither of us could sleep without going to see Cooper again. We took turns holding him and listening to him whimper and whine -- that's how you can tell he's breathing, sort of like how you can tell Savannah is breathing because she's talking.
We're both tired of this and ready to go. Tonight we've had to fight the negative thoughts that are creeping in. For those of you who go to OMPC with us, you know all about the Christian Waltz. We're waltzing a groove in the floor tonight as we practice the three steps: repenting of our lack of belief and negativity; believing in Christ's sufficieny to sustain us and our child; and fighting to believe Christ is in control. Rather than focus on our frustration, we fight to focus on the positives and they are too many to list here. Primarily, we focus on our place in the universe as children of God. As much as we want Cooper back home with us, God wants us safely in his arms infinitely more. I know to some people that sounds like a lot of religious babble, but Kelli and I can no more choose to stop believing than we can choose to stop breathing. And there have been times we've tried.
Preview of tomorrow's blogging action: Fun With the Parsley...
On a lighter note, Kelli and I keep receiving reprimands from hospital staff for walking around in our socks. The most common explanation is, "you never what will be on these floors." What does that mean!? Do doctors play football with donor livers in the halls or what? "Dang. I dropped the liver. What should I do?" "Leave it for some rube in his sock feet to step on. It'll be hilarious!" Mostly they just look at us as if we've never worn shoes.
We're both tired of this and ready to go. Tonight we've had to fight the negative thoughts that are creeping in. For those of you who go to OMPC with us, you know all about the Christian Waltz. We're waltzing a groove in the floor tonight as we practice the three steps: repenting of our lack of belief and negativity; believing in Christ's sufficieny to sustain us and our child; and fighting to believe Christ is in control. Rather than focus on our frustration, we fight to focus on the positives and they are too many to list here. Primarily, we focus on our place in the universe as children of God. As much as we want Cooper back home with us, God wants us safely in his arms infinitely more. I know to some people that sounds like a lot of religious babble, but Kelli and I can no more choose to stop believing than we can choose to stop breathing. And there have been times we've tried.
Preview of tomorrow's blogging action: Fun With the Parsley...
On a lighter note, Kelli and I keep receiving reprimands from hospital staff for walking around in our socks. The most common explanation is, "you never what will be on these floors." What does that mean!? Do doctors play football with donor livers in the halls or what? "Dang. I dropped the liver. What should I do?" "Leave it for some rube in his sock feet to step on. It'll be hilarious!" Mostly they just look at us as if we've never worn shoes.
Thursday, October 20, 2005
New Pics!
Yes, son. This is as good as your facial hair will ever get. Sorry.
Coop with his Grandma (my mom, Alice Franklin)
Coop & Papa
Coop & Granny
Coop with his Grandma (my mom, Alice Franklin)
Coop & Papa
Coop & Granny
A Quick Recap
I've spoken to several people today who wanted a quick update, so here goes:
•Kelli developed The Parsley (Bell's Palsy) last weekend. She was given a steroid dose pack to combat the symptoms.
•On Sunday, Kelli began have back pains that we later discovered were contractions.
•Monday, Kelli went to her weekly OB appointment. Dr. Sharp decided that since Kelli was 38 weeks and experiencing contractions that he would do the C-section that day.
•Cooper was born at 4:34pm, weighing 9lbs, 1oz and measuring 19.5 inches.
•He came back to the room with us and was having some difficulties eating because of excessive congestion. Kelli requested that he be taken to the nurses station to be suctioned further to remove some of the fluid.
•The nurses noticed that his breathing was rapid. They were concerned that the effort to breathe and clear some of the fluid would prevent him from feeding properly, so he was sent to the NICU.
•In the NICU, Cooper received an IV for fluids, dextrose and antibiotics.
•The nurses noticed a slight murmur in his heart. They also noticed that his abdomen was distended, so they inserted a tube to help alleviate the air/gas.
•Tuesday afternoon, the OG tube was removed so that he could begin to eat. The concern for his breathing had passed, and the distention seemed to be gradually reducing. Pneumonia or other infection was ruled out.
•Tuesday night, he was taken off the IV fluids. He was not feeding very well, though. The nurses have to "pour" much of the formula into his mouth to encourage him to swallow it.
•Wednesday, Cooper left his warmer for a crib. He is still very lazy about eating. The plan was to transition him into our room on Thursday so we could all leave on Friday. He also developed a slight case of jaundice. No one has heard the murmur again.
•Thursday morning, the neonatologist had concerns about Cooper's eating and blood sugar levels. The plan has changed. Now he will stay in the NICU one more night. Kelli and I will move over to the family room in the NICU on Friday. If all goes well, we will all leave on Saturday.
Additionally, Kel's Parsley has gotten a little worse. She met with a neurologist who affirmed our belief that it was the Parsley, and he ordered her some eye drops and an eye patch ("like a pirate," Savvi says.)
•Kelli developed The Parsley (Bell's Palsy) last weekend. She was given a steroid dose pack to combat the symptoms.
•On Sunday, Kelli began have back pains that we later discovered were contractions.
•Monday, Kelli went to her weekly OB appointment. Dr. Sharp decided that since Kelli was 38 weeks and experiencing contractions that he would do the C-section that day.
•Cooper was born at 4:34pm, weighing 9lbs, 1oz and measuring 19.5 inches.
•He came back to the room with us and was having some difficulties eating because of excessive congestion. Kelli requested that he be taken to the nurses station to be suctioned further to remove some of the fluid.
•The nurses noticed that his breathing was rapid. They were concerned that the effort to breathe and clear some of the fluid would prevent him from feeding properly, so he was sent to the NICU.
•In the NICU, Cooper received an IV for fluids, dextrose and antibiotics.
•The nurses noticed a slight murmur in his heart. They also noticed that his abdomen was distended, so they inserted a tube to help alleviate the air/gas.
•Tuesday afternoon, the OG tube was removed so that he could begin to eat. The concern for his breathing had passed, and the distention seemed to be gradually reducing. Pneumonia or other infection was ruled out.
•Tuesday night, he was taken off the IV fluids. He was not feeding very well, though. The nurses have to "pour" much of the formula into his mouth to encourage him to swallow it.
•Wednesday, Cooper left his warmer for a crib. He is still very lazy about eating. The plan was to transition him into our room on Thursday so we could all leave on Friday. He also developed a slight case of jaundice. No one has heard the murmur again.
•Thursday morning, the neonatologist had concerns about Cooper's eating and blood sugar levels. The plan has changed. Now he will stay in the NICU one more night. Kelli and I will move over to the family room in the NICU on Friday. If all goes well, we will all leave on Saturday.
Additionally, Kel's Parsley has gotten a little worse. She met with a neurologist who affirmed our belief that it was the Parsley, and he ordered her some eye drops and an eye patch ("like a pirate," Savvi says.)
More screen grabs
Another great shot of mom & baby.
The real reason they took Cooper from us; Kelli tried to eat his nose.
A beautiful scene.
Good face.
He does actually scream sometimes.
The real reason they took Cooper from us; Kelli tried to eat his nose.
A beautiful scene.
Good face.
He does actually scream sometimes.
I Hate USB!
Okay, the problem may actually be with the latest version of the Mac OS, but I can't bring myself to complain too much about the greatest computer operating system in the history of ever. (Seriously, if you have a Windows machine, you should just chuck it out the nearest window.) The cause for this frustration is that I took some new photos of the grandparents holding Cooper in the NICU which I would love to share with everyone. This was the first time they got to hold him since Monday. I'm sending my mom on a Best Buy run to pick up an SD reader, and then I'll get some new photos up on the blog. Tonight, the grandparents will take turns sitting with Kelli and Cooper during grandparent visiting hours. They should each get to hold him for the better part of 30 minutes.
We also checked out the family room where we'll be staying tomorrow night. It's spartan at best, but at least we'll be with Cooper. It's sort of like a cruise ship stateroom, minus the mini-bar and the scary, Eastern European hulk of a woman who makes you cry inside every time she comes to change your sheets. The TV is only a 13-incher, but anything will do when the Tide's rolling!
I'll upload some more video screen grabs shortly... because I'm bored.
-w-
We also checked out the family room where we'll be staying tomorrow night. It's spartan at best, but at least we'll be with Cooper. It's sort of like a cruise ship stateroom, minus the mini-bar and the scary, Eastern European hulk of a woman who makes you cry inside every time she comes to change your sheets. The TV is only a 13-incher, but anything will do when the Tide's rolling!
I'll upload some more video screen grabs shortly... because I'm bored.
-w-
A Little Setback
We just returned from the NICU. Unfortunately, we didn't get the answer we wanted. He is still not eating well, and the doctor is concerned about his blood sugar levels. (This wouldn't be an issue if he were in the well-baby area, but the NICU is much stricter.) The new plan is to keep him in the NICU for another night. They are giving him his last two doses of antibiotics today. The IV will come out of his head tomorrow morning.
We will stay in this room one more night, then we will move into a family room that is part of the NICU. The upside of that is we will be with him. The downside is that Savannah won't be able to come back there, nor will the grandparents. Lord willing, we will all go home on Saturday.
The real question is whether they will get us out of here by 2 on Saturday. If not, they're not getting rid of me until 6, when the Alabama-Tennessee game ends. I guess it would be a poor example for my new son if I were to scream obscenities about Fat Phil in the NICU...
Even though this not the way we hoped things would work out today, we are very thankful for our beautiful new son and the excellent health care he is receiving. We pray that Cooper will learn to eat well so we can take our son home.
We will stay in this room one more night, then we will move into a family room that is part of the NICU. The upside of that is we will be with him. The downside is that Savannah won't be able to come back there, nor will the grandparents. Lord willing, we will all go home on Saturday.
The real question is whether they will get us out of here by 2 on Saturday. If not, they're not getting rid of me until 6, when the Alabama-Tennessee game ends. I guess it would be a poor example for my new son if I were to scream obscenities about Fat Phil in the NICU...
Even though this not the way we hoped things would work out today, we are very thankful for our beautiful new son and the excellent health care he is receiving. We pray that Cooper will learn to eat well so we can take our son home.
A Full Night's Sleep!
Last night, the nurses left us alone, and we both actually got almost 8 hours of sleep -- probably the last time for a while. We're awaiting word on whether Cooper will be returning to our room today.
We visited with him last night, and he is so adorable! While he looks so much like his big sister at birth, the personalities are really quite different. While Savannah was very relaxed, she was also wide-eyed, checking out her new world. When she got mad, she had a very short fuse. Cooper, however, has more of a slow burn. He is much whinier and more dramatic. Everything is a personal affront. He doesn't cry much, though. And eventually, his laid-back nature takes over, and he chooses sleep over protest. An activist he is not.
His abdomen (I can't bring myself to repeatedly use the word "tummy") looks completely normal now. We reviewed the birth video last night, and you could actually see him gulping air and his distention forming. As a video editor, you often spend long days in an edit suite with clients looking over your shoulder. Obviously, you have to internalize many of your feelings, gastrically speaking. This is what I call "edit bloat." That's what Cooper had -- a massive case of edit bloat.
Now he has learned to let it go. He has developed a very healthy burp, and not one of those little baby eeps. It's a deep, gutteral utterance -- a gutterance, if you will. It's a PBR and a bucket of chicken kind of belch, one that says, "baby, get me another tall boy, and since the preacher's coming over, grab me some pants!" When he lets forth in his full gaseous glory, the preemies in the room grow silent. Their reverent hush screams, "Cooper McCall Franklin, you are my hero!"
Going to see him now. More to come...
We visited with him last night, and he is so adorable! While he looks so much like his big sister at birth, the personalities are really quite different. While Savannah was very relaxed, she was also wide-eyed, checking out her new world. When she got mad, she had a very short fuse. Cooper, however, has more of a slow burn. He is much whinier and more dramatic. Everything is a personal affront. He doesn't cry much, though. And eventually, his laid-back nature takes over, and he chooses sleep over protest. An activist he is not.
His abdomen (I can't bring myself to repeatedly use the word "tummy") looks completely normal now. We reviewed the birth video last night, and you could actually see him gulping air and his distention forming. As a video editor, you often spend long days in an edit suite with clients looking over your shoulder. Obviously, you have to internalize many of your feelings, gastrically speaking. This is what I call "edit bloat." That's what Cooper had -- a massive case of edit bloat.
Now he has learned to let it go. He has developed a very healthy burp, and not one of those little baby eeps. It's a deep, gutteral utterance -- a gutterance, if you will. It's a PBR and a bucket of chicken kind of belch, one that says, "baby, get me another tall boy, and since the preacher's coming over, grab me some pants!" When he lets forth in his full gaseous glory, the preemies in the room grow silent. Their reverent hush screams, "Cooper McCall Franklin, you are my hero!"
Going to see him now. More to come...
A Little Setback
A quick trip to the NICU did not bring the results we wanted. Cooper is still not feeding well, and there is some concern about him maintaining blood sugar levels. Were he over here with us all along, there would be no concern about his eating. The NICU, however, has stricter standards for feeding. They are giving him his last two doses of anti-biotics today. The IV will be removed from his head tomorrow morning. Kelli will be discharged tomorrow, then we will move over to the NICU and stay with him in a family room. The plan is still for us to all leave together on Saturday. When Saturday is an issue, because there is a certain game at 2:30...
This is not the way we wanted things to work out, but we know all things work to the good of those who love God. We would rather take him home with no health issues than run the risk of having to return. Say a little prayer that Cooper will wake up and learn how to eat, even if only long enough to fool the nurses!
This is not the way we wanted things to work out, but we know all things work to the good of those who love God. We would rather take him home with no health issues than run the risk of having to return. Say a little prayer that Cooper will wake up and learn how to eat, even if only long enough to fool the nurses!
Screen Grabs 3
Upon seeing her brother, Savannah gives her opinions on breastfeeding.
The triumphant return.
Coop's first bath.
The triumphant return.
Coop's first bath.
Screen Grabs 2
The doctors at work.
Kelli at work.
Dr. Charles Sharp, world's greatest OB!
"My word!" The big boy arrives.
Full frontal nudity.
Kelli at work.
Dr. Charles Sharp, world's greatest OB!
"My word!" The big boy arrives.
Full frontal nudity.
New Video Screen Grabs
Here are some photos (grabbed from the video) that cover the moments prior to Kelli's C-section.
The expectant mommy:
Sexy is a paper gown.
On the way...
"What channel y'all with?"
Fear sets in.
The expectant mommy:
Sexy is a paper gown.
On the way...
"What channel y'all with?"
Fear sets in.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Why won't he eat?
Kelli's First Post: We just got back from the NICU and the boy will not eat. We try and agitate him to get him to wake up and eat. He'll start wimpering and crying for a few seconds, and then he just calms right down - he is just too laid back. We probably won't think so a few days from now when he comes into his own and starts giving us a run for our money. We spent an hour between us trying to get him to eat, and then the nurse spent another 20 minutes. He took an ounce -- an ounce! That's it!!
Oh, we ran into his neo-natologist as we were walking over to see him. The doctor said that he will check him in the morning and then get him over to us tomorrow - hopefully morning, but probably early afternoon. So - PRAISE THE LORD! I'm ready to have him with us all the time. We will be heading over after we watch LOST tonight to see him one more time before lights out. Our nurse last night left us alone and let us sleep - we didn't sleep great, but at least we were left undisturbed.
I'll type more later - right now my Percoset has kicked in and I'm afraid I can't concentrate anymore.
Oh, we ran into his neo-natologist as we were walking over to see him. The doctor said that he will check him in the morning and then get him over to us tomorrow - hopefully morning, but probably early afternoon. So - PRAISE THE LORD! I'm ready to have him with us all the time. We will be heading over after we watch LOST tonight to see him one more time before lights out. Our nurse last night left us alone and let us sleep - we didn't sleep great, but at least we were left undisturbed.
I'll type more later - right now my Percoset has kicked in and I'm afraid I can't concentrate anymore.
Out of the Warmer, Into the... Crib
I called over to check on Cooper this morning around 6 am. He was sleeping soundly. He has been eating well. They moved him into the crib/bassinet after the last feeding. This is a great step toward getting him back over here.
UPDATE: We just got back from the NICU. Cooper's abdomen looks so much better today -- not distended at all. I got to change his diaper for the first time. I thought I was going to win the "bonus prize" as I was changing him, but it was a false alarm. We finally saw his neck today! He is a little jaundiced -- combined with the lack of neck strength, it gives him the appearance of a drunken Oompa Loompa -- but it's not severe enough to put him under the lights. His biggest problem right now is that he's too lazy to eat. He falls asleep while eating, so it takes him a good hour to finish a 2-ounce bottle.
On Thursday, he will receive his circumcision (or as I like to call it, the Gentiles' secret shame). We're not Jewish, so a full-blown bris is not in order, but we were thinking a little brunch. We'll serve pigs in blankets before and sans blankets after. Or corn dogs with the tip of the breading removed. We're still discussing it...
UPDATE: We just got back from the NICU. Cooper's abdomen looks so much better today -- not distended at all. I got to change his diaper for the first time. I thought I was going to win the "bonus prize" as I was changing him, but it was a false alarm. We finally saw his neck today! He is a little jaundiced -- combined with the lack of neck strength, it gives him the appearance of a drunken Oompa Loompa -- but it's not severe enough to put him under the lights. His biggest problem right now is that he's too lazy to eat. He falls asleep while eating, so it takes him a good hour to finish a 2-ounce bottle.
On Thursday, he will receive his circumcision (or as I like to call it, the Gentiles' secret shame). We're not Jewish, so a full-blown bris is not in order, but we were thinking a little brunch. We'll serve pigs in blankets before and sans blankets after. Or corn dogs with the tip of the breading removed. We're still discussing it...
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Goodnight from St. Vincent's
We visited Coop one more time tonight. He was disconnected from the IV fluids (yea!), although the IV itself was still in his head for delivery of antibiotics. We got some great video of him pitching a fit during a bath. He's so laid back that it was good to seem him get riled. Kelli bottle fed him -- or at least she tried. He got too comfortable with her, and kept falling asleep. The nurse had to take him back so he would eat. We're hopeful that he will be in a bassinet tomorrow morning. We should also get some information on his blood cultures then. The distention in his belly looked SO much better. Right now, everything is looking good for him to go home with us on Friday.
Until tomorrow, have a blessed night.
-w-
Until tomorrow, have a blessed night.
-w-
He has eyes, but no neck.
Kelli and I just came back from spending an hour with Cooper in the NICU. His belly had distended a little more since he ate. However, by the time we left he had a nice full diaper and the distention had slightly reduced again. We both got to hold him for a long while. He finally opened his eyes and really studied us. Before, we had only caught quick glimpses of his peepers. We spent many long minutes trying to locate a neck, but there's no hint of one to be seen. He does have a monster grip, though.
We're visiting with our good buddy, Luke Leonard right now. Soon, we'll head down to handle his next feeding.
We're visiting with our good buddy, Luke Leonard right now. Soon, we'll head down to handle his next feeding.
Update on Coop's Condition
Kelli and I both spoke with Dr. Bruce, the neonatologist, who said that the fluid on Cooper's lungs was not due to pneumonia or any other infection. That situation is clearing up slowly. His breathing is great. The air in his abdomen is steadily decreasing. They have taken out the OG tube (a tube fed down his throat to help vent off some of the gas in his stomach), and they have begun to bottle feed him. If he eats well again this afternoon, they'll slowly wean him off the IV.
He should be out of the warmer and in a normal bassinet by tomorrow, then back in our room by Thursday. Lord willing, we will head home as a family on Friday. I spoke to Dr. Rich Stone, our pediatrician, shortly after I talked to Dr. Bruce, and he is ecstatic about the progress Cooper is making.
Thank you all for your prayers!
He should be out of the warmer and in a normal bassinet by tomorrow, then back in our room by Thursday. Lord willing, we will head home as a family on Friday. I spoke to Dr. Rich Stone, our pediatrician, shortly after I talked to Dr. Bruce, and he is ecstatic about the progress Cooper is making.
Thank you all for your prayers!
Finally... more pics
Well, the iBook is still not recognizing the camera. (Anyone with expert knowledge on OSX Tiger and USB connections, feel free to give me advice.) So, through a convoluted connection process involving video outs on the digital camera, a loop through the HD camera and into the iBook via Firewire, and a skin-based cable connector, I finally have some new photos.
Here's Coop with his "Aunt" Paige. We're so thankful that Paige could be here to stay with Savannah, since none of our family could get here soon enough.
Here he is with his Granny & Papa (Kelli's parents, Katie & Roy McCall). Unfortunately, my parents got here so late that they only saw him briefly before he headed to the NICU, and that meant no photos of them with their new (only) grandson.
A cute profile and a very sleepy Mommy.
Savvi's giving her brother a kiss for the first time.
Daddy, daughter, son.
Great story behind this one. For years, Savvi has heard stories how the only thing that would calm her down when she was first born was sucking on my pinky. She insisted on Cooper doing the same with her. She is also convinced that every time he cries, it's because he wants his big sister.
Here's Coop with his "Aunt" Paige. We're so thankful that Paige could be here to stay with Savannah, since none of our family could get here soon enough.
Here he is with his Granny & Papa (Kelli's parents, Katie & Roy McCall). Unfortunately, my parents got here so late that they only saw him briefly before he headed to the NICU, and that meant no photos of them with their new (only) grandson.
A cute profile and a very sleepy Mommy.
Savvi's giving her brother a kiss for the first time.
Daddy, daughter, son.
Great story behind this one. For years, Savvi has heard stories how the only thing that would calm her down when she was first born was sucking on my pinky. She insisted on Cooper doing the same with her. She is also convinced that every time he cries, it's because he wants his big sister.
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