It’s been 53 days since Max and Michaela were born, and our conversations have just now begun to shift from centering around daily wins or setbacks to preparations for homecoming.  The nurses who work with our babies have each hinted in their own way that M&M’s struggle and subsequent progress has been remarkable to watch over the past few months.  Now that both babies have passed their fair share of hurdles and are more stable on their own each day, our nurses and doctors speak more candidly about just how much of an uphill battle Max and Michaela faced to make it where they are today.

Superbabies in their ‘big kid’ cribs

Both Max and Michaela have graduated to open cribs in the last week and they are no longer receiving any oxygen or other respiratory support!  They are both successfully eating from bottles every other feeding, and Max has even attempted a few feedings with his mom the old-fashioned way.

Max just before he lost his oxygen support

New and improved Max breathing free!  He is well on his way to graduating from his feeding tube (pictured) as well.

Michaela has pulled slightly ahead with her weight gain, and the nurses predict she may be 1st to make the trip home in two to three weeks.  She currently weighs 4 lbs. 6 oz., while Max is just under 4 at 3 lbs. 15.5 oz.

Michaela’s focusing on getting fatter.

Our trips to the NICU will be more frequent now as we’re allowed (and encouraged!) to be more involved with feeding, changing diapers and everything else care related in preparation for when the babies will be ready to join us at home.

Motivation on the side of the Piche baby cribs… every night we get to cross off another day

Max and Michaela continue to benefit from the prayers and love of family and friends!

Valentine’s Day gift from the March of Dimes

We are definitely happy to be looking forward to more comfortable times.  First step… matching outfits 🙂