Daily Hope: Monday, January 26

Hope: day 50

Hope: day 50

Hope had another great day!! She managed to snuggle with Mommy for a few hours, which is always a good thing for all involved. Her feedings were increased to 11ml and she seemed to be tolerating that well. The feedings are definitely making a difference since today when Hope was weighed she came in at 1120 grams, which is about 2 pounds 7 ounces. She weighs a whole pound more than when she was born!!!

Hope was not extubated today, as the doctors had originally thought might occur. She just wasn't ready to do all the work on her own yet, but that's ok. She'll let them know when it is time. She has to gain weight more rapidly first.

Hope's platelet count increased on its own since yesterday!! This is great because it is the first time since she had an infection that she regenerated her own platelets, so no infusion necessary today!

As you can see from the pictures, not only is Hope looking more "baby-like" (as many people have commented) but she is again sporting part of the Hope Collection. This hat has been worn before, but is making another appearance. The lovely pink knit hat is trimmed with pink fuzz stuff (yes, that is the technical fashion term) and was made by Hope's favorite RT, Peggy. Another big thank you to Peggy for keeping Hope clothed!

In other news... Hope seems to be inspiring to others. As everyone knows, Hope Vivian (Vivian Jr) had a bowel obstruction very early in her life and then had to have surgery. Well, today it appears that Vivian Sr (Hope's Great-grandma Anderson) also has a slight bowel obstruction, or something of the sort. Great-Grandma Vivian is spending the night in the hospital so please keep your prayers with her tonight since we can't be there. Aunt Em talked to Great-Grandma tonight and gently informed her, as only Aunt Em can, that only one member of the family is permitted to be in the hospital at a time and since Hope already had dibs on hospital duty, Great-Grandma WILL BE GETTING BETTER SOON!!! Great-Grandma said she understood and promised to do her best, which she better follow through with her promise or Aunt Em will have no choice but to go "shape her up". And nooooo one wants to see that, trust me on that one.