Dear Xavier - Four Months

Dear Xavier,

Happy four months! Today also marks the day that you've been home longer than you've been in the NICU! I count my blessings all the time that you are home with us, growing stronger and healthier every day.

You're starting to wean off of oxygen, which hopefully means that by the end of the year we'll get to see your cute face sans cannula all the time! You got discharged from hematology, which means that the blood transfusions you received from the hospital did their jobs well and you're doing great! Your PDA in your heart is still open, but the cardiologist is confident that it will close on its own, but even if it doesn't, it isn't hindering your growth or development and she will do a simple procedure to close it herself when you are older.

And, of course, you're getting oh.so.BIG - 10 pounds, four ounces! It's hard to believe that four months ago you were my teeny tiny three pound preemie, especially when I nibble at your cheeks that rival Lissie's in chubbiness!

You still don't get out a lot, but you manage to still have fun. You love it when your sister shows you how to play with her toys, even though she sometimes gets frustrated with you that you don't really play with her so well yet.

You also love it when Lola comes over because she spoils you with clothes and lets you nap with her.

One of your favorite things is getting cozy in the Moby or stroller and going out for walks and basking in the beautiful fall weather.

I really think you're just glad to be home.

And, of course, we're glad you're here.

I love you. So much.

Love,

Mommy

Here are some pictures we took this month:

Your sister tried to change your diaper.

This time she was a tad bit more successful.

She also wanted to brush your hair.

If this is the face of a criminal mastermind, we are all doomed.

Sweet, sweet sleeping baby smiles.

Truly our miracle baby.