Saying Goodbye to O's?

We have very big news to share...(drum roll)...Benjamin has been without any oxygen assistance for an entire week!!! Could we actually be saying goodbye to his O's? I sure hope so! Before I kick the oxygen tank to the curb (figuratively speaking of course - if abused the big heavy tank could explode, not to mention this seemingly delightful action would likely result in broken toes for me) I know Benjamin's lungs need more time and strength. His Pulmonologist recommended keeping the tank around through the cold season, as it is very possible he will need assistance if he became sick. He is also still on a couple diuretics, which we hope to discontinue in the next couple weeks. That will be the real test of how strong his lungs are, since the diuretics apparently make it easier to breathe by getting rid of extra fluid. Benjamin is still on the monitor and will be for quite a while as needed. Regardless, there is rejoicing in our home! Thank you, Jesus!!!

Benjamin is up to 9lbs. I remember one of the first days after Benjamin was born our friends Don & Diane came for a visit and gave him his first outfit. It was newborn size and said "beary cute" on the front with fuzzy bears and a couple trees embroidered on it. At the time I thought it was huge compared to the little baby in the NICU, but Diane reassured me that he would wear it some day. That day has come and almost gone! He is starting to outgrow some of his newborn clothes.

Do you remember 1972? If you happened to be around, you might remember a dandy little toy invention made that year by Fisher Price. It was called the Happy Apple and was a large apple with a smiley face and chimes inside. I remember our family had one. I did not appreciate it all that much, but now I do. We have been loaned one by Benjamin's physical therapist. She says they are great for children's development because just the slightest touch produces a chime and they are weighted so they will stay upright, allowing for hours of chiming fun a baby learning about his surroundings. Benjamin seems to love his borrowed Happy Apple. Here he is enjoying it:Here he is abusing it:
Tomorrow (Tuesday) is Benjamin's appointment with the Audiologist. If he passes both ears he might not have to go back anymore. Please pray for good results (and accurate equipment!)