Hunter Update-Week 2 and 3

"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trust in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song." Psalms 28:7

"He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young." Isaiah 40:10

Weight-4lb 15oz; 19 in long-Hunter's growing...almost 5 pounds

Hunter is twenty days old today, and we've almost spent 3 weeks at Texas Children's Hospital. We have seen so many changes with Hunter the last couple of weeks. He spent a week or so in a closed incubator to help maintain his temperature and gain weight. He was promoted to a "big boy" crib on Sunday night. We were also moved to NICU Level II on Friday night after they confirmed Hunter did not have any infection in NICU Level III. He had some signs of possible infection; but after a many tests, the doctors confirmed he was clear. Now Hunter's learning to take his meals from a bottle. He has worked up to four out of eight feedings given through a bottle with the others given through his feeding tube. The bradycardia and desaturation (heart rate slows below 100-common in premature babies) has slowly decreased over time as well. Cardiology completed another echocardiogram yesterday and confirmed that his heart function, despite the aneurysm, is within borderline/normal range. This is an incredible blessing and miracle in our lives. We are grateful to the doctors and staff as they have been diligent and conscientious in caring for our son. Everyday we are making small steps towards coming home.

We thank everyone for your prayers for our son. I will be forever grateful for everything friends and family have done to help us with Hannah, providing meals, and words of encouragement. We feel blessed beyond measure as God has provided strength to our son and us in the midst of challenging circumstances. We ask for your continued prayers for normal heart function, to remain clear of infection, and Hunter's ability to take all his feedings from a bottle. I thank God for his provision, grace, and how He has carried us each day.

Big Mama and Daddy Bob hold Hunter for the 1st time.

Gram holds Hunter for the 1st time.

Hannah holds Hunter for the 1st time. What a great big sis!

Sleeping in my baby condo :)

Hunter and Dad fast asleep...both great sleepers.