Swallowing is hard work.

Today marks our 100th day in the NICU!

Today was another good day with Max. He had his oxygen very much under control and he only seemed angry when he needed changing. His poor little bum has a bit of diaper rash on it, making him more sensitive during his changes, but he seemed otherwise comfy, happy and alert today.

His Papá got to hold him first today, and during this holding time, Max showed his parents that he was capable of swallowing a little bit.  His nurse filled a syringe with a tiny amount of breast milk and squirted a little into his mouth while he was sucking on his soother. It wasn't a lot, but it was enough so that he needed to swallow it, lest it affect his breathing. Max "got it" after a few seconds after each injection. It was quite obvious that he had to very deliberately swallow, but he swallowed all the same. It obviously took a lot of effort, but he kept on keeping on and we were very proud of his work ethic. Hopefully, soon it will become second nature to him and he'll do it without thinking. For now, we'll take these baby steps as a sure sign that he'll get to the point of eating on his own - without worry - soon enough.

Max had a visit today from his Grandma Ellen visiting from Orlando. He was on his best behaviour for her and showed how much he'd grown since he last visited with her. The last time she saw him, he was still bruised and tiny.  He was very proud to show off his chubby face and arms for her. They had a lovely visit and will hopefully have much more time together in the next few days.