The Cubby Chronicles XLI

Note: Jacob Raymond Walker was born 12 weeks prematurely at Duke University Hospital the morning of Monday, May 19 2008. The following are updates, notes, & observations on his growth & development.

It's just starting to feel like fall here in Raleigh and we're excited that Jake is getting to experience his third season. Of course he was in the hospital for all of spring & most of the summer but regardless, we have to keep an accurate count.

As the days will be getting cooler, we've tried to get the little guy outside as much as possible. Last weekend we had an impromptu picnic over at nearby North Hills park and you can see above that Mr. Cool was rocking his Baby Banz sunglasses.

Of course this may smack of elitist yuppie consumerism gone a muck but you have to admit, he looks pretty good in them. He also doesn't mind wearing them though he's never had a problem with things on his head (be it Billirubin goggles or his CPAP harness).

Health-wise, Jake is doing great. Last week we took him back to the Duke Special Infant Care clinic (I can't decide if the clinic itself is 'special' or if it's just for 'special' infants) and the doctors & physical therapy were thrilled with his progress. Jake's report has been posted below, we're especially pleased with his cuteness quotient.....


He's been completely healthy so far & we certainly hope he stays that way. To help him stay germ-free we received our first shot of the Synagis vaccine today. The shots (at a whopping $1,000 each--score one for health insurance) help him fight off the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV goes around from the fall to the spring (depending on the region) and the elderly & weaker infants such as preemies are the most vulnerable. We'll get the shots every month until April or so.

We've enjoyed having him home & we're pretty sure he feels the same way. Jake's graduated to smiling all the time & coos & gurgles as well. He's still sleeping well & I personally hope he continues his easy going state. Kristin heads back to work next week & I'm going to get my chance to be alone with the little boy at home. I'm sure we'll have a fun time....