Well we have become pretty cozy with the information from our cardiologist. Life is really good. Oliver is healthy again after yet another ear infection followed by bronchitis. It seems that after these hiccups, Oliver virtually makes some huge jump. his eating has dramactically improved. And not just in my biased eyes, Tom and Grandma B have noticed as well. He is finally back up to his full feed of 165 mls every 3 hours (7am- 10pm). In addition to that Oli is sitting at his high chair for at least 3 meals a day and enjoying things like sliced bananas (still in its peel), smoothies, anything smothered in cream cheese and of course his all time favorite: Hot Dogs! He knaws and chews on these, and swallow some too. The bananas are the latest. he asks for them as soon as he sees them. I know he is getting them in, because I pull out his stomach contents (I know this sounds horrid, but I am estatic!) I can see chunks of food! Even his poop looks different!
I am so accustomed to having a baby who doesnt eat, that I havent thought too much of when Oliver wont have his mickey button. But now, I really think about it, and I dont think he will have it when he is 3! He is really starting to trust having food near his gag reflex. Also I think he is feeling healthier these days and wants more.
Lately, he has even pushed my hands away when i try feeding him his scheduled bolus at least once a day. He clearly says nu-uh. I cant (and dont want to) force feed him. i want him to have control of his body and to be respectful of his boundaries. Of course, he also needs to gain weight and grow! When possible, I wait for him to go to sleep then I feed him. He doesnt wake up so it makes it easy. Other times I have to explain it to him and then I end up distracting him while I ease into his belly. I feed him alot outside too. This seems to distract him enough.
Oliver is continuing to love his swim class. He seems more comfortable getting splashed and having his ears in. he will blow bubbles when asked. He is intrigued with the other babies in his class as well. He watches them as they swim and dip their heads into the water