Almost There!

These pictures were taken just a few days before he left the hospital.

The first time I got to see him without tubes coming out of his face (excluding when he was born)

Roller Coaster

July 17, 2011

Jeff built this Kinex roller coaster in our living room. It took up the whole house!

The Drudge

With the help of dedicated doctors and nurses, Noah made excellent progress in his development. We felt we were witnessing a miracle. From the time of his birth, the only thing wrong with him was that he needed time to develop. The doctors said they had never seen a healthier preemie. We attribute this to the numerous prayers that were offered on his behalf. 

The first time Mama got to bathe him.

Jeff's first experience with a blow-out.

Open bed trial.

July 4

The hardest part about this day was spending time with family, but not having my baby with me. I didn't even take pictures of the fireworks - I guess my mind was on other things.
For that time while he was in the hospital, it was almost like we weren't really parents yet. We would hang out with friends and I wasn't pregnant anymore, but we didn't have a baby with us. It was a very strange feeling. Everything didn't really sink in until we brought him home.

June 28-29

June 28
Now it's starting to sink in...

June 29

6 Days Old

Now begins a very long 1 1/2 months in the NICU.

Meeting

The first time I held my little bundle of joy, I didn't instantly love him as some mothers do. Perhaps this was because it all happened so unexpectedly (and because I was on morphine...). Luckily though, my love for him has continued to grow each day since.

Sometimes Life Throws Us Curve Balls

On June 20, 2011, due to complications that were threatening my life, my baby was delivered 7 1/2 weeks early.  I have learned through this experience that life doesn't always happen as we plan, but that God is in control. 

Some more golf

July 2

Jeff's best friend, Brian came up to visit. We decided to relax and play a game of mini golf.  It was fun except for the crazy birds that were attacking us while we played.