She Breastfed!!!

This is an "older" picture - but one of my favorites!

We stormed the building today - Len, Mom, and I went into the NICU today and told them we wanted to have her try to breastfeed BEFORE trying to bottle fed. This is not the norm there - and I can understand why, but we were insistant. See, all the research we are reading says that it is best to have the baby try with mom FIRST -before introducing a bottle, otherwise she may not want mom later because it is more work than the bottle - and she doesn't understand the benefits once she has had the bottle. However, the NICU's viewpoint is they need to make sure she can breathe, suck, and swallow first before introducing mom into the equation - make sure it is safe for the baby. I understand that, but we asked for the doctor to make the decision - and he said, "She wants to breastfeed? Well, let's try it and see what happens." So, we tried. She struggled for about 2-3 minutes and then latched on and fed for a good 5 minutes solid! Way to go, Scarlet! What amazes me is how determined she is to figure out and learn what she needs to do. Each task they give her, she does and does it well. I'm so proud! She was latched on or close by getting to know me - reaching for me - for a good 35 minutes. And she had no breathing, sucking, or swallowing problems. She didn't gag once (their biggest fear)! Then, she fell asleep very happy and very content.

One more piece of good news - They moved her yesterday out of her box - She is out of the incubator and in an open crib. She has to gain weight now more than ever because it takes a lot of energy to stay warm (which is why she was in the incubater for so long - to help her keep her temperature up). So, we have to expect she might go back to her box, but for now she's in her rolling cart. She's handling all of these challenges like a trooper!