One Week Old

Happy birthday, sweet Esther!

I can't believe that it has been a week since our little preemie was born. It was a day of surprise and praise for God's perfect timing. Throughout the week, we have seen how God had already planned ahead and taken care of the little and big things surrounding this precious little child's birth and the steps leading her to being home with us. :D It makes me excited and in anticipation for what the future holds!

Today, I was able to get several updates on Esther. 

She weighs 3 lbs 12 oz, almost up to her birth weight of 4 lbs. :D YEAH! She continues to breathe well on her own. She will have her IV tubes removed by tomorrow. YEAH! She is close to regulating her body temperature (gaining weight will help) and will be moved into a crib-style bed... which means we can bring her preemie clothes to wear. YEAH! She isn't digesting her food as quickly as needed, so they have slowed down the feeding. The nurse said that starting tomorrow she will have 1 oz of food per meal! YEAH! She might need to go back under the photo therapy for jaundice. 

Prayer Requests:

Esther:

• To gain weight and be able to regulate her temp.
• To practice sucking and have a desire to nurse.
• Continue to grow and be strengthened.

Yuliya:

• Continue to visit Esther every day. BIG prayer.
• Patiently wait on the Lord each day.
• Spend time with husband and with Alena & Kenni.
• Get enough rest.

Andy:

• Continue to trust God with finances.
• Not to feel overwhelmed by work and family.
• Reward his hardwork and his love for his family and God.

My other girls:

• Get time with both of us and feel our love toward them.

Important Visitors

Update on Esther: 

Esther is doing really well. She is breathing on her own and doesn't even have the cannula in now! Yahoo! A step closer to home. :)

We thought she might have been moved to another room (ICN) last night, but we discovered it is not critical for discharge, so she hasn't been moved. The nurse informed me that she could be discharged from any room when she's ready.

They will be moving her feeding tube into the nose soon, so she can learn to nurse. Pray that she will be cooperative and the transition will be easy for us.

Kangaroo Care: 

Last night, Andy was able to do the Kangaroo care! He was so excited and enjoyed every minute. It brought such joy to my heart to see that precious moment! :)

Visitors!!

Yesterday, Andy's mom was able to see her granddaughter for the first time. She hadn't been feeling well and wanted to be extra healthy for the little one. We were thrilled that both grandma and grandpa got to see Esther! Grandpa got a photo of her smile. :) Uncle Valeriy also joined us and took cute pictures of her toes. So precious.

Today we went again at two with Aunt Jenny and Uncle Chris! They traveled two hours to come visit baby Esty and each moment with her was treasured. :) Valeriy came back again today... He just can't stay away. I'm glad. ;)

My mom hadn't seen me or Esther since Sunday... She came and we spent the afternoon together while I did the Kangaroo Care. It was a wonderful visit and I can't wait to do it again. ;)

Provision:

Our family is overwhelmed by all the blessings that God has given us and all the ways He has provided. Both my husband and I are at peace with her "coming early" and having three girls under three... Why? Because we serve an amazing God, we love Him and try to please Him with everything we say and do.... And He takes care of us. Amen.