Monday, May 26, 2008

Eating well.



The monumental moments continue!

Michael ate today. He drank all of the breastmilk as his mom held the bottle for him. This is remarkable since it is often a challenging adjustment for babies after surgery. Michael started off a little shocked, since these were his first non-IV nutrients, but immediately took to it and finished the whole thing. Meg also got to change his diaper again.

As Tommy held the pacifier, Mick reached out and grabbed his dad's finger with a grip that said both, "I'm glad you're here," and "Don't move that binky."

Michael still has the brain wave monitor on his forehead, but as soon as they remove it tomorrow morning, his parents will be able to hold him for the first time. In the meantime, Mick's been comforted by his "beanie buddy," a cute vest that simulates being held. Of course, nothing will be the same as his parents' arms so we're very excited for the morning.

Since we're thrilled about putting up pictures of our little tiger, we're going to include a bunch.

Thanks for your continued thoughts and support and for celebrating this miraculous baby with us!
















11 comments:

jim and Joan said...

Michael,
I remember your grandfather as a teenager, eating the whole apple pie. That may be a Connolly appetite showing up. Such continuing wonderful news. We will all have happy dreams tonight.

Love and God bless
Jim and Joan

Anonymous said...

What a fantastic and beautiful family picture. You all look so wonderful and happy. I couldn't be more excited for Michaels progress the minutes have become hours, and the hours days and he's still here...always fighting and inspiring us. The importance of family, love, strength, support and faith have never been so relevant as I'm sure they have been now to Tommy, Meg and all the loved ones checking in on Michaels every-move. We all have so much to be thankful for everyday, and Michael has been an amazing addition to those things I have to be thankful for. I am hugging you all and sending a kiss back your way xoxo.
Love, 'Cousin' Kate

Unknown said...

Tommy and Meg,
You guys look great, although Michael is by far the cutest!! He looks so precious. Im so happy for you guys, especially tomorrow when you get to hold the little guy!! You guys are quite an inspiration to all! Love always,

Kayleen
xoxo

Anonymous said...

Good Morning!
You all look so happy. Thank you for keeping us smiling.
Love,
Nana and Grandpa

Anonymous said...

hey guys,

glad everything is progressing well.

keep up the great work!

love simey x

Unknown said...

Good morning - you all look wonderful. I am thrilled with Mick's progress - he is so lucky to have such wonderful parents.
Keep up the good work!
Love to all - Nancy

Anonymous said...

Hi Tom and Meg,
We were so happy to get the great news on Michael. Caitlin, you are doing a fantastic job with these updates. We go to the computer each morning and night.Thank you so much.
All our friends in West Harwich are praying for you.Give michael a kiss for us when you hold him for the first time. Love to all. Carol and Jack Hanlon

K said...

Last night I blew up the photo of Michael to get a better look and both myself and my dad (Bill Dugs) agreed he was one of the most beautiful newborns we've ever seen. This agreement of course coming after looking at a not so glamorous pic of myself as a baby! Just wanted to let you all know I think about you every second of the day and cannot wait to meet this little angel. Michael is living proof of what the power of faith and prayer can do. I hope to some day be able to display the same strength and will this little boy has already shown in his first few weeks of living. Can't wait to see the pics of you guys holding your little boy :)

Love you all so incredibly much!
Kristin

Anonymous said...

I can say from first hand experience that Michael has the Connolly appetite. I remember the time Meg and Shawn came to my house for stuffed shells and Meg ate 12 while Shawn wolfed down 21! What a thrill it was to be able to feed Michael for the first time. Tomorrow will even be more special for him when he will be held by his parents. Give him an extra squeeze (gently) for me. Love Grandma Linda

Fairytale Ending said...

Hello Irwin Family,

It's been a while since we've been able to get our "Mick Updates", but it was so amazing to read about all the accomplishments the little man has made over the past few days. He looks so strong and healthy and Meg and Tom look like the proud, doting parents they are:) We'll keep the thoughts and prayers going your way!

Hugs and kisses,
Amanda and Brett

Monica said...

Meg:
Received your cell phone photos @ noon. Enjoyed the "mother & child reunion" it must be quite a moment, holding him for the first time. Congratulations, he is so good & happy to be in your arms at last.
Nannie Irwin