Every 3 hours, the hospital arranges a "holding time" for mother and father to come into the NICU, and you're able to hold your baby for a short period of time for bonding, and feeding in some cases. Since Casey is better able to get out of bed and be wheeled down to the NICU, she takes every opportunity to do so. We love going down there to see our daughter. I know she can tell that her Mom and Dad are there because each time we go, she relaxes more, and stays calm. Even smiles sometimes.
She even opened her eyes for us, for the first time. I guess she wanted to see what all the fuss was about. She is kind of a big deal.
She will usually fall asleep while we hold her close to our chest. This is a process they like to call, "Kangaroo parenting". You basically place her up against your chest, for warmth, and so she can smell and hear your heartbeat, which soothes her, and calms her. It works so well in the growing process that this hospital can claim that their premature infants have a 95% survival rate, where other hsopitals that dont do the "Kangaroo parenting", have a 80% survival rate. I like those odds. She is in very capable hands.
The nurses, and Nurse Practitioners at this hospital are so nice and very understanding. They do this for a living. They were even nice enough to take our first Family photo. I know we both look a little tired and worn out, but we could'nt be happier with our little girl.
Welcome to the world Caroline. You are loved by so many already.
