Update

Mason is doing so well. The doctors say he's a very strong little guy and is progressing nicely. He no longer requires any oxygen or medications. He still has an IV but that will gradually taper off as he eats more. He has been taking milk since Thursday and is increasing his feedings on a good schedule. He started with 4cc (which is about 40 drops) and is up to 14cc now. His suck/swallow reflex is very strong so he eats well. I've nursed him a few times now...it's really just practice for him because he can't suck hard enough yet to get anything out. But he does latch on and 'pretends' to eat. And I've been pumping so we have a huge amount in the freezer for when he comes home.

The NICU encourages something called 'kangarooing'. I'd never heard of this before. Basically, I lay down without a shirt on and they lay him on top of me, so we're skin to skin. Then they wrap us up in blankets. It's so relaxing and gratifying. The first time we did this I almost cried because I finally felt close to him. We've bonded a lot more since starting this. I have done this every day from 12 - 3. We just lay there and nap together. It's really a special time.

The doctors don't know when he'll be able to come home but they have said they think it will be in about 10 days. We'll keep everyone posted with his progress.