Jonas and Monday...

Greetings.

Mari wrote about how the doctors and nurses were debating on giving Jonas a try on demand feeding. I am pleased to report that Jonas confirmed what so many of us prayed, hoped, and kept our fingers crossed for...Jonas likes to eat. On the surface it is a pretty simple concept, Jonas needs to take a bottle and eat his food. However, in the Nicu and Icn, babies sometimes struggle to get the hang of it. Jonas amazed everyone when on his first attempt he took his full feed. He continued strong performances all day yesterday and today.

Knowing that he can eat and not have any reflux issues has convinced the doctors that he will not need to have any additional GI surgeries. They had talked of inserted a G-tube (a direct line that opens on his belly so we could insert milk) or a tightening of the stomach valve. My last conversation with his nurse indicated that the surgeon was ready to do his hernia surgery only on Monday morning. What amazingly wonderful news. So now we pray for God to guide the surgeon's hands and heart on Monday when he operates on Jonas.

The nurse also noted that once his surgery is done and he has recovered, he will be ready to come home. We are so close.

Elsa spent the day with Dad today. We both napped frequently. Elsa's goal is to put on weight a little bit quicker. She is 7lbs and 5ounces and needs to catch up with Jonas. The doctors have been changing her prescriptions and milk formula to hopefully get her growing a bit more. Otherwise, she is doing great.

We pray for patience, healing, and growth for our babies and us in the days ahead.

God Bless,

Dan & Mari & Elsa & Jonas