A Trip (or two) to the Doctor

When we left the hospital Carter's Bilirubin levels were at a 12 and considered fairly high. We were very lucky that we could take home a Bili bed so that he didn't have to stay at Northside for light therapy. Even his little eyes turned a bit yellow and the poor guy had to spend the majority of his time strapped down. It made for a very difficult first night home and was really sad that we couldn't cuddle and snuggle our little one.

First thing Monday morning (March 8th) we loaded up and headed to the pediatrician to have his blood tested again. This time the results were looking better and he was down to a 9. He also had gained 3 ounces! At birth Carter was 8 pounds 9.6 ounces. When we left the hospital he was down to 8.1. By Monday he was back up to 8.4 and looking healthier! The doctor said we could stop using the bed and just spend as much time in the sunshine as possible. We scheduled another appointment for the following morning and we went home to rest! Poor Carter's heels were looking like little pin cushions from being pricked so much and I was anxious to be done with all these tests! Grandma Hattie came over that afternoon and spent some time bonding with her grandson while soaking up the rays. Linc and I got some much needed naps in the meantime and we all had a yummy lasagna dinner together (the same "labor inducing" lasagna from Thursday night!!!).

This is how Carter sleeps. I just want to eat those little cheeks!!!

Snuggling with Daddy and waiting for the doctor.

Our little carrot colored baby

Hattie and the first born sons

Tired momma and baby all ready for bed!

Time to try out your new bassinet!

Carter slept for 3 hours between the first night time feedings but then was WIDE awake from 4am until around 7. We're going to have a talk about that! He is eating like a champ and seems to have the hang of nursing. I am still playing around with the different holds and trying to find what is most comfortable.

On Tuesday we again loaded up (in record time) and headed back to the doctor. Can you believe my little piglet gained another 3 ounces bringing his weight up to 8.7 pounds and almost back to birth weight! What a good sign that my milk is working and nourishing his little body. His Bili levels were still a 9, but the doctor said he was looking great and the jaundice was about half way cleared from his body. We could send back the Bili bed and just enjoy spending time in the sun to help it finish clearing! Yay!

Nakie baby at the doctor!

Enjoying a little snack while we wait! I am pumping for the first few days while we
establish a solid supply and Carter enjoys the extra little bit here and there!

Hello handsome!

Carter loves his Daddy!