Monday, May 5, 2008

Gwyneth Rose Update

So, now that Gwyneth is up past 2000 grams (4lbs 6oz), the only other major hurdle she needs to clear is to be able to eat everything from her bottle consistently. (She also needs to come down on a few of her meds, but that should come with the rest of it.)

She has already been fed three times from the bottle today, eating most of the bottle each time, so we are definitely seeing improvements. She'll keep her feeding tube until she's eating everything.

She becomes very agitated (as she has been doing for several weeks) about an hour before feeding time (she is fed every three hours). Her cries sound just like any other newborns, except not quite as loud. But, most of the time, she is either sleeping or just hanging out and checking things out (mostly the ceiling).

Gwyneth continues to hold her body temp incredibly well, often becoming too warm (which is why you see so many pics of her waving around). We continue to be amazed and incredibly thankful for the progress that Gwyneth is making!


Thanks!

Nate

As a side note, I kindly ask, again, that you withhold unsolicited baby advice based on what you see and read on the blog. If you're seeing/reading it here, it's because we've chosen to share it with you...if the baby is un-swaddled in the NICU, you can assume that it's OK with us and the medical staff...if I mention that she was sucking her thumb for ten seconds, don't assume that she'll be sucking her thumb for the rest of her life...etc. It's very frustrating to have people appear to assume that we're uneducated, irresponsible parents, and it certainly doesn't encourage us to want to continue sharing as much as we have been sharing. We understand that it's "good intentions", but it's still frustrating (and, we realize that might not understand why and that reading this may hurt a few feelings). If you see/read something that you don't like, please, leave it up to our family and/or doctors to correct us...I promise that they will.

As always, those discouraging comments/emails are such a drop in the bucket compared to the encouraging and positive comments/emails we receive, it's easy to stay focused on the good. And for that, we continue to be incredibly thankful!

124 comments:

Anonymous said...

Gywneth is just so darn cute ... :)

twin power mommy ♥ said...

Second to comment...
I have a picture, like that one of Gwyneth, of my Alyssa. She's all bright eyed and bushy tailed. I love how those cheeks are starting to fill out!

Amy said...

I'm sorry that there are people who forget the sheer joy and thankfulness you must feel simply because she made it!

Andie said...

She is SO ADORABLE!!! Unsolicited advice come from every direction as soon as you become a parent...you just have to decide what to take and what to leave...and what to try to ignore! (Sorry...I guess this is some of this unsolicited advice...just ignore me if you want!! :o)

Blessings-Andie

PS...did the sling arrive?

The Pastor of a Small Rural Church said...

How blessed you all are. God is amazing, isn't He?!!

As for unsolicited advice... it simply comes with the territory of being first time parents. Blog or no blog... CF or no CF.... NICU or no NICU. If you weren't getting unsolicited advice here (on the blog) you'd be getting it from someone IRL. Its just the way it is. There is always at least one or two people "out there" who believe that you really couldn't possibly know how to raise your own child. So, while it is frustrating, just know that it is something that ALL first time parents endure. I used to tell people, "well, I guess that is why God gave this baby to me and not you to raise."

Julie

The Beaver Bunch said...

Yay for Gwyneth eating so much from her bottles! We'll be praying that she keeps it up, and is doing well enough that she will be "home" w/ you both within a matter of days.

kitten.mom said...

Being a parent for the first time is so hard.(My baby is 8 months) Everyone thinks they know best. But the one thing I have learned going through it is you as a parent know whats best for your child and no one else can tell you any different. (-: God bless. She is so beautiful and just becoming a little chubby baby like they should be at her age. just wait a few months she'll be just like my son. He's almost 22lbs at 8 months old he loves his food and bottle time is still his favorite time of day and I am really cherishing it now because I"m not sure how long it will be like that.Well she maybe not be that big. She is a girl and all.(-: Hehehe (-: (actually it doesn't really matter much anyway) I just thought that I would encourage you and I'm not sure if I did that. But I just wanted to say that cherish every moment thats what I have learned in the past few months because they grow sooooooooo fast. (-; She's cute as a button and I ofcourse love her name. (-:

somebody,somewhere said...

yikes, you are all such an inspiration, i can't imagine giving unsolicited advice!! :) i just enjoy the updates - keep 'em coming! :)

Beverly said...

Nate, she is so cute. Those eyes of her's look very interested in your camera...

Emily said...

She is stunningly beautiful and looking more and more like a full term baby every time you post pictures!

Your comment about her getting too warm made me chuckle. From the time my little one came out of her isolette around 4lbs they had to put a sign up on her crib saying, "I'm small but mighty! I overheat easily. Please do not cover me."
People would always see this little peanut and assume she needed to be covered or swaddled when in fact we were always having to take layers off to keep her from overheating!

Christa said...

I love the updates and that baby is so stinkin cute. Also as the mother of 4 you'll get all kinds of unsolicated advice..no two children are ever the same..and you'll just love every moment you have with her whether it's right or wrong..now where is that advice for raising a teenage drama queen. I could use it right about now..LOL

elj377 said...

Welcome to Parenthood! Yeah Gwyneth! I personally see nothing wrong with thumb sucking (I was a thumbsucker and I turned out fine) as for the swaddling thing and the other advice take it all with a grain of salt, each kiddo is different they will tell you what they need, and the love of their parents usually makes all that happen! Keep up the good work Mommy and Daddy!

Anonymous said...

She is GORGEOUS!!! Aren't baby cheeks just the cutest?
Seems like yesterday my babies were tiny and snuggable and kissable like that!
The grow SO fast...appreciate every day...

(no advice here...but my gosh she is adorable!)

DavitaJo said...

I get agitated about an hour before feeding time too...and I'm almost 30. Still hoping that I grow out of that.

Great job Gwyneth! May is going to be a month of milestones!

Jennifer said...

She is an absolute beauty!! It's unfortunate, but the others are probably right...There will always be those people that put their two cents in where it isn't wanted or needed. Ignore them! You know you are doing what is best for Gwyneth and will continue to do so! :)

Brenda said...

I love you side note today. I never liked everyones advise either.

Wilson Ramblings said...

Gwyneth Rose is such a gift from the Lord! She is absolutely beautiful. I know you don't know me, but I check in on you guys daily and you are in my prayers. My life has been touched by a childhood friend with CF and a little one born just a bit too early (although I'm happy to report that you'd never know it now!). Keep your faith and keep sharing it! What a testimony!

Christine said...

Gwyneth is without a doubt, breathtakingly precious!She is immensely blessed to have such loving and giving parents. What a blessing that she has gained weight! I am praying for you sweet family.

Anonymous said...

Your daughter and wife are both beautiful. I have been watching Gwyneth's growth since I found you a couple days after she was born. My twin nieces were born at 29 weeks and I know how much my sister appreciated learning about mothering from the best teachers... the NICU nurses! Does Gwyneth have any apnea issues? That was what kept my nieces in the hospital for so long. Thank you for opening your lives up to the world.
Ali

Megan and Company said...

My niece is fabulous!

Mrs. Dan said...

She cute!

And poo on party poopers. You and Trish are doing a great job!

Andy Lawrenson said...

She is so much like her uncle!
Cranky when hungry, that's me.
Warm, that's why my thermostat is on 68 degrees right now.
Cute, need I say more.

The advice thing went in one ear and out the other for me unless it came from our pediatrician or people we knew and respected, that were obviously good parents.

My only advice is don't let her have the keys to the car until she has her driver's license.

Now I have a 20 paragraph poem about advice. . . .

Gwenyth's Great Uncle Andy

Andy Lawrenson said...

PS People told us we shouldn't get him into a pattern. Thats why at 8pm he got in bed and went to sleep at 3 without any hassle.

Anonymous said...

Gwenyth is so beautiful! I love the pictures you share!
I am glad you enjoyed the walk in Cary this weekend!

Be Thou Exalted said...

No unsolicited advice from me, just sheer happiness for all three of you and wishing God's continual blessing on your family. I check your blog daily for updates, you may call it stalking if you'd like, I just call it being nosey!!

Blessings From Above said...

She is just so stinkin' cute. I LOVE her cheeks!

It will not be long, and you will all be home together. I am so excited for you guys!!!

Shari said...

Very well said, Nate! Gwyneth is beautiful! People will never know what it's like to have a pre-term infant in the NICU unless it's happened to them. It's a whole different world than having a term baby. Unsolicited advice always happened to us, too and I remember how frustrating it was as well. Hang in there! You and Tricia are doing a superb job and I am very proud of you! Besides, when she's not all wrapped up you can see her cute face and chubby looking legs! Priceless!

Tricia said...

I am so excited about her progress! Of course, God is so good! She is the cutest little thing. Sorry for the negative stuff but don't be discouraged to keep posting. We are so happy to hear the good news. God will sort out the rest....hurt feelings and all!

Tricia :)

Elizabeth said...

She is too stinkin' cute!! Perfect in so many ways!!

~j~ said...

oh man... the pictures just keep getting cuter and cuter! she definitely is heading for that car seat ride home, i agree with davitajo's comment on may being a month of milestones, GO team!
love to all,
j

Our Two Blessings From Above said...

I am so happy that she is doing so well with her bottle feedings.

She has such big beautiful eyes!

Thanks for the update.

beth said...

by the way she will stop the thumb sucking by the time she gets married...hahaha!
As u know parenting is trial and error. That is just life:) I am so glad u are all doing so well! Happy soon to be summer:)
love from hh, nj

Anonymous said...

I swear her eyes say volumes and reflect the love of our Lord. Maybe she can still see her guardian angel and you only think she is looking at the ceiling?

Rebecca said...

That Gwyneth is growing like a weed (okay, not soo much a weed but a sweet little rose type of climbing vine) she's waaaaaay cute!

I keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers, god bless!
Rebecca

Anonymous said...

Another GREAT photo of your beauty!! So wonderful of you to share so much of your life with us:) And, in return, you get hundreds upon hundreds of wonderful comments! But having a comment section also allows unsolicited advice to flow your way. Unfortunately, that's just how it is in life! Comment section or not, if you have a pulse, people are going to tell you how to raise your kids! As soon as you become a parent and walk the streets with your child or write about your child on your blog, people will tell you things that you don't like about how you do things. Asking them to stop simply won't help. There will always be someone else with something else different to say! The only thing to do is just decide not to let it bother you. Don't spend energy on it. Focus only on the fact that you know you good parents and that you get so much praise from others. Forget the naysayers, and don't spend energy trying to get them to stop. How blessed you are to have SO many people who can uplift and encourage your parenting every single day. You get more than most parents daily, that's for sure, so take the negative with a grain of salt and keep on keeping on! You guys are GREAT parents and your blog is a great place to land:)

Momof2bz said...

I think this is my favorite picture ever. She is just such a beauty! Congrats on another milestone. I am sure that you are estatic that you are one step closer to going home and being a complete family.

Sarah said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Beth said...

Both of your precious girls are looking fantastic!! You are truly blessed.

hoosier homemaker said...

Tricia and Gwyneth Rose have been on my prayer list for quite some time. I am so happy for your little family!

Gwyneth is as cute as a bug. I love the pictures - thanks for sharing! She is beginning to look a little bit ornery!! Must take after her Dad!

No advice from this grandmother of 9. I think you two have learned more in the last year than most people do in a lifetime! And look at the rewards!!

Aspiemom said...

It's amazing how far Gwyneth has come! Before you know it she'll be going home!
Aspiemom

Jenn said...

What a beautiful picture of Gwyneth and her mommy!
~Jenn

Unknown said...

I love that picture, it looks as though she is playing Peekaboo! It's heartwarming to see your two girls doing so well, Praise be to God!!

As for the advice, perhaps they are jealous of the incredible parents/family you are. You are both amazing, intelligent, articulate and devoted parents, you have nothing to worry about, you're doing all the right things, and so is Gwyneth. That's because God is leading, and the three of you are making a conscious choice to follow Him each step of this journey. What's not to love about that??! Perhaps they don't understand that things could be going so well? Let's all pray for them, that they'll understand His miracles!

P.S. For anyone who thinks that advice stops at the first child... whether you have 1, 3, or 8... trust me, it can still happen after decades of being a parent. Pray that God will be gentle when He shows them how hurtful their "good intentions" are.

Kim C said...

Very well said if everyone who read your blog gave you guys advice you would go completely nuts! I think you guys can handle anything with all you have been through. Not to mention all the pictures with such smiling faces.

Unknown said...

Too many women in your kitchen, lol. Gwyneth gets more lovely by the minute

Unknown said...

get used to the advice! (and letting it roll off your shoulders) it is oneof the hardest things about parening because someone always knows a "better" way or has unsolicitaed advice. just smile and nod and then do whatever it is YOU think is best for your little Rose. I think putting it all out there on a blog Is inviting some of it (unintentionally of course) I know you and Tricia undertand that though I'm sure!!

Be well!

Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba) said...

Cute, cute, cute. Thanks for updating us. I'd been hoping to hear more of what's in store for Gwyneth over the next little bit.

:)

Rebecca

The Mom Jen said...

Gwyneth looks so cute today!

I'm sorry about all the advice...3 kids and 10 years later we still hear it, it's uber frustrating!

HUGS!

Randall @ Happy For This Moment said...

She is getting so big and looks so pretty in her little onesies!

I am a big thumbsucking fan, and a thumbsucker myself thankyouverymuch. My mother always said it was the most comforting thing as a baby and child because I could always soothe myself...no pacifier or bottle just by good ol' thumb. I outgrew the habit in my own time and won't be walking down the aisle at my wedding with my thumb in my mouth, so it's all good :o)

Anonymous said...

:)Well, they're right - everyone has an opinion on everything related to parenting, but I would think they'd make an exception in this case given that your daughter has survived being born at 25 weeks gestation. I'm thinking you're doing something right :) You'd think it'd also be a good lesson to all of us - praise God she's alive - who cares if she sucks her thumb or is swaddled?! :)

Kim... said...

If you think this is bad...wait till you walk into a grocery store! "You know your daughter's hair is in her eyes...she can't see!"(she just pulled out here bow), "Don't put a hood on her...rain's good for a baby" (uhh "thanks"...as I put the hood on her), "You know she looks warm...maybe she has a fever" (ummm...well...feeling her head...she's not warm...uhh...thanks), "Why is she wearing shoes in this warm weather?" (well walking through a grocery store barefoot just doesn't work for me...uhh..thanks)...
This was just today! One hour shopping trip, two kids, and I get in my car praying for patience and thankful I didn't speak what I was thinking :)
I don't think it ever really gets better...just smile and nod :)

Shannon said...

Nate~ You are doing an incredible job! Everyone has their opinion, and unfortunately... They give it to you. Please continue to share. I feel inspired by your blog!!! Thank you!

Sara said...

Thanks for sharing your beautiful family with all of us out here - I'm praying for you all and am always happy to see your updates on my RSS feed/reader!

Sheila said...

I always get a chuckle out of the comments people leave....even the bad ones. Tonight, I am glad to see that every first time parents get those horribly awkward "words of wisdom" from stangers!! My mother use to drive me nuts when our daughter was first born. She always thought the baby was too cold. Once, I went to the bathroom and when I came back out, my mom had added about 3 layers to my daughters outfit! HA!!!

BTW, I am a firm believer in "gut" parenting....you guys are doing a great job!!

TNHaus5 said...

I have been reading your blog for a few weeks now and I am so inspired by your story. I love to see that you give the glory to God for the trials he has brought you through. You have a wonderful gift of story telling and such a great way to touch so many people's lives. You have two beautiful girls in your life. I am so amazed by the progress they each are making. You are in our thoughts and prayers for the continued recovery and growth.

p.s. I hear ya on the unsolicited advice. You almost feel like you should wear a sign when you go out that say's "please don't tell me what I am doing wrong!" It seems that there is always someone readily available to tell you what you should do with your baby.
Keep up the Great Parenting!!

jamie said...

I'll be praying for little Gwyneth to meet the goals she needs to get sprung from the hospital!
She is a darling baby. Soocute :)
God Bless you all,
Jamie in Texas

Anonymous said...

Why does Gywneth need meds still? Are they the same meds Tricia takes for those enzymes to eat? Or is something wrong with her heart? now im worried!!!! will pray tonight! I really hope she gets better and goes home sooon!!!!! she looks sooo big!

Test said...

Oh advice...put a hat on that baby, why do you give him a pacifier he's going to suck it till he's five, when are you going to potty train...he should be by now, you're going to homeschool...what about socialization, you know they do have a nursery for church for your boys, I know it's 70 out but he should have a coat on, were are your kids socks their feet are cold, do you know how to swaddle because baby's can't sleep without being swaddled, you should never sleep a baby on his tummy, he really should be walking by now....UGH!

This is just a few in the three years of motherhood...I am sure many more to come!

You guys are awesome! You're an awesome dad (from what I can tell from the blog). You're goofy and my husband is goofy and he's a goofy daddy and I just love it!

When will get to hear Trisha on a video? Just wondering.

Have a blessed night and remember everyone thinks that you want their two cents ;-)
Heather

Our beautiful mess... said...

What a beautiful girl! You guys are doing an amazing job with her, and a lot of being a parent is learning what works for you and her best. Having an 8 month old I know how it feels to get constant opposite advice, but just go with your gut!

Anonymous said...

I just have to laugh! You are now getting unsolicited advice on not wanting unsolicited advice!

I hope it gives you a chuckle or two!

Get your giggle on, it is very healing!

Melissa :) said...

I love your blog. I am thrilled to be able to see what God has done & is doing in your lives! What a testimony I'm telling you! :) :)

Don't you dare let anyone rain on your parade. You just keep on deleting them!

God Bless all three of you! :)

Jen in Al said...

thank you so much for the detailed update! so good to hear how wonderful your White Rose is doing!!! she is amazing!!! love the picture of her playing "peek a boo" with Mommy! i have had to remind myself many times not to give you unsolicited advice! :) i think one of the joys of parenthood is walking the road the Lord has for you without having every thing other people think put on you. you would miss making some hilarious memories with your sweeties! thank you so much for continuing to share your life with us in blogland! ya' ll are doing GREAT!!!! continuing to pray for all three of you, jen in al(blessed mommy of 5)

Joyful Mom ~ Karla said...

Good job, Gwyneth! You're a precious baby girl.

And Nate & Tricia...just go with your God-given parenting instincts. You two are amazing, and are the Mommy & Daddy that God CHOSE specifically for Gwyneth. He KNOWS what He's doing ~ so don't listen to any critical remarks. The rest of us are cheering you on!

Hugs from El Paso,
Karla

K Storm said...

She is so beautiful and I am so glad that she is growing so well. Your pictures are captivating...of course the subjects of the pictures are pretty special!

No advice given here. Other people's advice never helped me...they just don't know my kids like I do.

Katy said...

Keep on eating, Gwyneth!!! (And sucking your thumb, that's what it's there for! :)

Justin and Jennifer Harris said...

What an absolute doll! Loving all the pics and updates! As a first time parent I know what you mean about the advice. Trust me, no one knows their baby like Mama and Daddy! Nobody!

Michelle said...

When our youngest was in the NICU she had just about enough of that tube in her nose and kept pulling it out. I had become great friends with her nurse and by the 3rd time one night she just left it out! I remember when she would just tire out with the bottle and one day, BOOM, it all fell into place and home we went! GO BABY G GO!! Blessings from Tulsa!

Candi said...

What is with people thinking babies need to be bundled up all the time?? I mean, I'm guessing the NICU is a cozy temp! I know people have gotten after me lots about not having coats/jackets on my boys. They both get hot very easily. When Lucas was a baby, I would often just bundle him up in a blanket and run in to where ever we were going instead of standing in the cold and fighting to get a coat on him. A lady once told me that "it is cold out--where is his coat??". I told her I figured standing in the cold trying to get a jacket on a baby for 5 minutes would get him colder than quickly wrapping him in a blanket and running in. Not that she deserved an explanation--but she did shut up!! I know that is a bit harsh, but the others are right---some people just can't help themselves.

Unknown said...

The best "advice" I ever recieved was from our beloved family physician. He told us to ignore everything, and that we alone (mom and dad) would know what was best for OUR child. Only us, not even him! I always loved him as my doctor, and even more so after that, and we've lived by that advice for 5 years now.

Dana said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
A Jersey Girl said...

Nate, Your Girls are looking so terrific, You must go to bed every night so happy, it must be hard to stop smiling:)

fuzzandfuzzlet said...

LOL ahhhh the part of parenthood they do not warn you about... unsolicited advice.

The only advice I will give is advice you have already learned to follow. Trust your gut (aka take every thing you hear with a grain of salt and trust what your gut is telling you... gut instinct is the best gift God gives parents)

Christy said...

Those eyes are simply gorgeous! You guys have yourselves a beautiful lil doll!

Jessica said...

She is getting cuter by the minute. I can't believe how big she has gotten. I love this happy ending that your family is living. Congrats to the 3 of you!

Anonymous said...

I think every parent, whether their child is featured on a blog or not, gets their share of unsolicted advice. Relax, it is all part of the parenting package..and will continue as your baby grows up. It all stems from caring people, in my opinion. Just do what I do, be gracious, learn to smile, and say thanks, and then keep doing what you think is right or what your pedi tells you!

Anonymous said...

OMG! Gwyneth is so stinkin' cute! She looks like she is really filling out and fitting into "real" baby clothing now! What size does she wear now? I would like to send you guys some baby clothing if that's okay with you? Give her a big squeeze for me! She is too adorable! I bet you cannot wait for her to be home for good!

Amy said...

FEEDING ALL ALONE....

This last hurdle might seem like the longest one of them all.... But then suddenly they will tell you bring your car seat in she is going home! YOUR HEART WILL LEAP! What a JOY ahead and each day will get better as she grows! Preemies get all the advice from everyone but God will show you and Tricia what is best for your daughter!

Praying for you in Chesapeake,VA!

Football and Fried Rice said...

Those eyes......she is a beauty!

Violet said...

lovin it. glad she's doing so well.

The Hallenbeck's said...

I continue to be in awe of all God has done in your lives. Seeing those pictures of your precious girls you wouldn't know the struggles they (and you) have faced. God has truly blessed you with these precious miracles. I know I don't have to say this, but keep looking up. I wish people wouldn't be so insensitive, but "sandpaper" people make us stronger. I'm continuing to pray for your family. God Bless.

Caroline Cordle said...

Gywneth is doing so well!!! AS ARE DADDY AND MUMMY! It must be hard to have to wait to have her home with you, but God's timing is perfect. It's great that you are somewhere with such brilliant staff who you trust and respect. What a blessing!

Love and prayers.
xxx

MamaOnABudget said...

This is not a "you should know better" comment... just a question that might not be worded right.

If she's getting agitated an hour before each feeding, why are they waiting 3 hours to feed her instead of every two hours? Is it because there just isn't the staff to cover feeding more frequently? Is there a reason that she has to eat that far apart (meds, for example)? I'm just curious from a mom of two full-term babies whose doctor encouraged her to just feed them when they were hungry and ignore schedules. But I also know I'm coming from a totally different background and perspective than you guys are with a preemie.

Anonymous said...

No advice, just an 'I can relate' my DD was only 6 weeks prem, it seemed a big deal at the time, but in comparision to Gwyneth she was quite big. I can remember willing her to finish those bottles, she had to go 48 hours with no tube feeds and it seemed an incredible task, but of course, she did it, as will Gwyneth.

Jamie Labonte said...

wow ~ she's come a long way in a short time...she's beautiful!

As for advice, you will get a ton -I have a 4 year-old and I still get well-meaning unsollicited advice from friends and family!

Scott said...

Thanks for consistently guarding some healthy boundaries! That is pretty cool to see you share so much yet be willing to draw the lines. We are praying for all of you.

Destini said...

The changes are amazing! It has been such an awesome privilege to walk with you on your journey. I've often prayed that the encouragement would outweigh the bad for your family!

Praying still for your preciouse one to be released from the hospital.

Praying also for Strength and Stamina for Tricia.

Shannon (Philadelphia) said...

Nate, you and Tricia (and for now the doctors and nurses at Duke) hands down know what is best for your daughter. No one knows what is best for their child than the parents. Something was born within you and Tricia when Gywneth was born. It is the "magicial" ability to realize when something just isn't right with or is bothering your child. I guess it is one of the gifts God gives us as parents... the ability to care and love for our child the best we know how.

All three of you have done amazing so far... and there is so much more to come........

Always in my thoughts and prayers.
Shannon (Philadelphia)

PS. I wrote to you before regarding my friends little girl born on Dec 31-14 weeks early. Well she still is not home... ran into some trouble with the bottle so she had to have surgery to insert a feeding tube. But she is pushing 8lbs and we are expecting to hear anyday the plans for her homecoming.

kidsworld said...

If it makes you feel any better, people everywhere feel the need to give unsolicited advice to even healthy babies. Not sure why they think they have the right, but they do it anyway...Maybe your response to random strangers could be, "at least we didn't terminate the pregnancy" That would shut 'em up! She's beautiful and look how far you've come (Isn't that a song???)! I'm so proud of both of you. I keep thinking how this is how I always envisioned everything working out - not once did I doubt that both your girls would be okay in the end. God created me to be an optimist and give hope, but you've given me the faith in God that I've needed. Thank you!

refreshing in ohio

kidsworld said...

Also, my now 16 month old (first winter baby) had colic for the first 3 months. He screamed day and night, December thru February! He disrupted our once quiet home and made my other three kids very nervous until the day I took off the blanket and socks. He calmed almost immediately. And I thought I was being the good mom by keeping him covered and look how miserable that made him! No one knows your baby better than you do, even those wonderful nurses look to mom and dad for cues. I think I just gave you advice to stay strong, sorry ;)

The Wyrd One said...

Will keep praying for both of your 'girls' - may you continue to recieve many blessings - hold the advise! I still get both advise & comments everywhere.......love the ones who come up to me in the grocery store (not)....Sometimes I feel like making an anouncement when we go - No, my kid won't act or react like yours; get over it, he is autistic! No advise needed as to his behavior or volume needed.....LOL....

The pixs are beautiful......

Brooks Family said...

I think she is so beautiful! :)

The Wyrd One said...

Will keep praying for both of your 'girls' - may you continue to recieve many blessings - hold the advise! I still get both advise & comments everywhere.......love the ones who come up to me in the grocery store (not)....Sometimes I feel like making an anouncement when we go - No, my kid won't act or react like yours; get over it, he is autistic! No advise needed as to his behavior or volume needed.....LOL....

The pixs are beautiful......

The Wyrd One said...

Will keep praying for both of your 'girls' - may you continue to recieve many blessings - hold the advise! I still get both advise & comments everywhere.......love the ones who come up to me in the grocery store (not)....Sometimes I feel like making an anouncement when we go - No, my kid won't act or react like yours; get over it, he is autistic! No advise needed as to his behavior or volume needed.....LOL....

The pixs are beautiful......

The Wyrd One said...

Will keep praying for both of your 'girls' - may you continue to recieve many blessings - hold the advise! I still get both advise & comments everywhere.......love the ones who come up to me in the grocery store (not)....Sometimes I feel like making an anouncement when we go - No, my kid won't act or react like yours; get over it, he is autistic! No advise needed as to his behavior or volume needed.....LOL....

The pixs are beautiful......

Tammy C said...

Gywneth is adorable in this picture!

Andrea said...

I just love how bright eyed and beautiful your little Gwyneth is!!! That picture is just perfect!!!!

Dana said...

i'm such a dolt. i thought my comment posted twice so i deleted one of them. i didn't want you to think that i said something mean, stupid, out of line. i just am not smart at night :).

i just wanted to say that gwyneth has the best cheeks! so sweet.

and about the advice, i wanted to second that you will get it from all directions from everyone and their mother. EVERYONE will know more about your baby than you do LOL. even after 4 kids other people STILL think they know more about my kids than me. even teachers think they know my kids more than me.

do your best to ignore it. smile, nod, and move on. some people just cannot hold their tongues for anything.

i only have 4 kids, but people STILL insist on making comments like, " you know where they come from, right?" and " boy, do you have your hands full."

tricia and you will make the best decisions for your baby. no matter what anyone else tells you :)

God bless!!!

Rebecca said...

Keep up the good work! The 3 of you are doing great. Thanks for sharing your story with us!!

Lisa N. said...

"First time commenter" :O)
What a cutie pie your daughter is. :O) Any update on her eyes?

Speckledpup said...

I didn't know I was supposed to be leaving advice!!!!
my bad.
I just figured when God gives you a miracle he equips you to handle it.
Gotta go compose some advice manuals for you both...
:o)
tee hee hee

Candy said...

Gwyneth sounds like she's doing so well! I am beyond happy for all the wonderful things that have been happening for your family. God is glorious!

Lisa said...

she's soooo cute!!!
(especially in the thumb-sucking, unswaddled version!) :-)

Anonymous said...

The unsolicited advice starts in pregnancy ("Have an epidural, you'd be crazy to go natural." "You're not going back to work after you have him are you?"), and doesn't stop. It's particularly bad from pregnancy through toddlerhood though. For some reason it's very difficult for people to hold their tongues on this particular topic.

But for the record, I don't think any of us have ever met someone whose life was ruined because they sucked their thumb.

Kristine McKowen said...

What a great picture in this post!

Don't you just love some people's advice - NOT!

Thank you so much for sharing both your girl's journey's with us.

Debi said...

I'm so sorry you get negative comments from people -- ugh! :( But, wanted to just let you know that I've followed your story for awhile now and only post once in awhile because I figure you have plenty to read without me posting, too! :) But, I just had to say that I'm so thrilled that Tricia is doing so well and that Gwyneth is steadily gaining weight! She is absolutely adorable and I can't believe how much she's changed -- it's been so intriguing to see how she's developed! :) Thanks for sharing your life with us, even at the risk of a few 'bad' people who choos to post negatively. Our family has been blessed by your vulnerability and your willingness to share your 'weaknesses' that the strength of Christ may be seen! To Him be all glory!!!!

Dottie said...

Gwyneth is absolutely adorable! If I haven't mentioned it before, this site is amazing, beautiful, heart warming and I've learned so much from it. God Bless

Movin-on said...

I have been following your story for some time now, and I believe God is using you in a mighty way. I feel bad for others who waste so much time on being negative when they should be focusing on the positive that is happening. Kudos to Nate and Trisha for all thier endurance !!! To bloggers, focus on Christ and His miracles, He has the FINAL comments !!!!!

Demara said...

I'm so glad Gwyneth is doing so good! Woohoo. She is looking quite cute too.

107 comments? wow! A lot of people love her or maybe you or maybe all three of you.yikers! That's a lot of comments.

Our Family! said...

Gwyneth is so precious! Thank you so much for sharing her with the world! We continue to keep you all in our thoughts and prayers! God bless!

Love,
Rob, Amy, Emily, and Ryan Farrell

Pauline said...

Gywneth, is really developing a personality and feeling out ... she will be home in no time and keeping the two of you cracking ...

:)
Keep smilin

Glenda said...

You have a wonderful testimoney of God's hand at work in your lives. Don't let unsolicited advice stand in the way of how much you encourage others. my children are 18 & 20 and people still think they know more than us about our children. God bless you and your family.

Sabrina said...

Here is a little unsoliceted advice. Do what feels right for you, Gwyneth and Tricia. Nobody (other than God) knows your family better than you.

Lauren M said...

In my own experience as a young mother I've just thought everyone assumed I was uneducated because of my young age. With reading other posts, I agree that first time parents get bombarded with advice. It seems people see you guys as "out of the woods" now and aren't holding back. That's too bad. I have enjoyed following your story for the past several months. You have been blessed and it's wonderful how you've shared honestly with us. It seems to be more difficult for you to do that now. I hope people will be more respectful.
Gwyneth is such a beautiful little girl. It makes me so happy to see Tricia well and holding her baby face to face.

Brianne Hudgins Photography said...

Beautiful Gywneth's in the NICU being watched by some of the top nurses in the country ~ they wouldn't let anything happen that would jeopardize her health. Anyone who questions that, obviously doesn't know the Duke nurses!!!

You guys will do a wonderful job raising her in your own way w/ your own choices over the next 18 years. Take what advice works for your family & ignore the rest. Except the Granma in WalMart who tells you your child must be covered head to toe when it's less than 60degrees outside ~ she must be obeyed! LOL (JOKE!!)

(BTW: Even 2nd & 3rd & 4th time parents get unsolicited advice from strangers ;) That's not solely reserved for first timers unfortunately!)

Unknown said...

Dear Sweet Family,
I read your post in the middle of the night(can't sleep)about the negative parenting advice. It really bothered me as I know that it really bothered ya'll. I would just like to give you each a word of encouragement on the wonderful way you have been walking in God's will. It is so clear in all your posts that being obedient and prayerful is at the very core of each of your souls. It is hard when you are trying to keep the faith in such tenuous circumstances for someone to critize your efforts. Let me just say what a testimony and witness your blog has been to me. I read it not every day..but several times every day to check in and see if you have posted something. God has something huge planned for Gywneth!! She is his miracle. I am just so happy for both of you that you have been through the valley and are now almost shouting from the mountain top. May your feel his love and support today and ignore any negative and critical remarks.
kay

Doripink said...

She just gets cuter with every new pictures...Love the updates!
Dori

Sarah said...

I'm still laughing that people are sending such silly comments about things like thumb sucking in the NICU.

My daughter was only in the NICU for 5 weeks to feed n grow her. I so remember trying to get her to eat all her bottle each feeding. ((HUGS to you))

Joy said...

Gwyneth gets more and more beautiful everyday - if that is even possible! You guys are a true blessing! People should be taking advice from you guys rather than trying to give it!! :) Thanks again Nate for keeping us posted and sharing your family with us!

Katie said...

That is funny, maybe you should give me advice, I'm a mother to three. I pray for your wisdom during trying times that I will face in my life. Your great!

Sandy said...

you guys are doing great! I am just so thankful that you continue to faithfully share with us. If I was to hand out advise, it would be that there are a few great reads for a few months down the line about peoples experience with Preemies. After bringing my twin 28 weekers home from the hospital (beautiful pictures of your Gwyneth, by the way), I read "Before their time" and "Baby ER" which were great stories of other people's preemy experiences. Also, I hope that God lays on your heart to take the work you have done here, and get it published in a book format. The way God has used all three of you is amazing. You are a wonderful example for husbands everywhere, and your ladies are great examples of fighters! Keep it up!
Sandy

Marcie said...

Here's my latest favorite unsolicited advice story:
My niece took her daughter (then almost 2-years-old) through the McDonald's drive-thru. Her daughter has a lot of hair and it was tangled & messy post-nap. Along with her order, the McDonald's employee included a comb. This gesture was not appreciated by my niece, at all.

I think it's great that you're letting people know your boundaries on the advice issue. It really doesn't matter that it happens to everyone because this is different - it's a huge (well, world wide) forum and the amount of advice (given already and anticipated) is, I imagine, daunting.

Continued prayers for all three of you...
Marcie

Gram said...

hahahahaha! i love this! when my daughter was born, my sister-in-law was very vocal about "keeping her wrapped up" and kept knocking on the nursery window. we finally had to sedate her and whisk her out of the hospital. gwyneth is so healthy-looking! trish, too.blessings! J

Cara said...

She is SO precious. I am ALREADY receiving unwanted baby advice, even though my husband and I don't plan on starting a family for a few more years. How is that even possible!? :)

Jen P said...

Wow! Gwyneth and my Lucy were due the same week -- Lucy was born late (May 1) and we came home last week. As I gave thanks for her, I also thanked God that Gwyneth is doing so well and prayed that she will also be released soon.

Devon said...

Preemies rock! I have a 29 weeker born in August '06 and 23 week twin boys, born in March '08...now living in heaven with Jesus.

I wish you all the best! And know that unless they have had a preemie themselves, nobody really gets it.

God bless!