Mommy's First Cuddle

What an amazing experience for both Cey and I. After much arguing (or commanding on her part) we (she) decided that she gets to cuddle Joshua first, and maybe I get to cuddle Joscel when she's ready, Not. Either way, it was a great feeling to have Joshua out of the incubator and onto Mommy's chest. It's called Kangaroo Care, and it said to help the babies a great deal. They are able to feel the warmth, as well as follow the heart beat and breathing patterns of the "parent". Notice how I emphasized "parent", as both moms and dads are allowed.

Joshua has finally graduated from the tube down his throat, to the CPAP which goes to his nose. He is able to breath a little more on his own, and so they switched him over. He still has a tube down to his stomach to feed him, but he's able to make some sounds now. We can hear him cry, but sounds more like a cat's meow.

Here are some pictures of the process.

A first look of his entire face without the tubes. We call him "Little Old Man".

They then manual ventilate him while they prepare the CPAP.

He then has to wear a special hat so they can keep all the new tubes and straps "in place". Joshua thinks he can do it on his own, and keeps taking the tubes off. One time the nurse found his oxygen line on his cheeks, and he was still doing fine. But he still needs it for a few more days.

Mommy lends a hand, or two, with the linen changes as well. We are encouraged to help with some of the tasks, like linens, facial cleaning, and diaper changes. It's great to have some involvement with their daily routine.

And finally the awaited moment. Mommy got to hold him for about an 1.5hours, while Daddy took pictures and video taped. I snuck a few kisses on Joshua, and got to smell his baby breath. Next time, I'll have my opportunity.

Until then they can just cuddle with their stuff toys.