Ryan and Jessica

ell it was a busy weekend for us.  Ryan got to get the feeding tube out on Saturday because he started eating better.  I’m actually breastfeeding him now when I’m there so that helps out a lot.  They expect him to lose some weight for a day or two before he starts gaining.  But he nurse so well for me, he doesn’t want the bottle.  Which can be very trying if we need to see weight gain steadily going up.  He still has these brady spells which they might start to record when he has them to see if there isn’t any more into it which 9/10 times babies are fine.  Its a preemie thing.  But they won’t let him come home if he is still having them.  I’m exhausted.  Tom and I wish we could be done with hosptals for once and start being a family that is normal and chaotic.  Because Ryan is still in the NICU, I forced myself last night to start on Jessie’s room.  I emptied out her closet and all her drawers.  Gave all her clothes to a friend except the ones I needed to keep.  It wasn’t that hard only because i didn’t look through ‘em.  I just stuffed them into a bag.  Now the big thing is her bedding, her miniature rocker and matching lamp.  If anyone knows anyone nearby that need new bedding with matching accessories, let me know.  I have pics of it.  Or else I’m just going to put it on eBay.  I just feel now that we are taking her room and making into Ryan’s, she’s really gone.  Her room that she really never used is gone.  It’ll be a boys room.  No girly things around anymore. In fact, I keep calling Ryan Jessica when I talk about him to Tom.  I don’t know why but I always call him Jessica. I just don’t want people to forget about her.  And how she fought so hard to stay with us.  We love you, sweet girl. Ryan will be told stories about you. Mommy misses you and loves you and wishes you were here to meet your baby brother. I know you are looking down  on him and Thomas. Thanks everyone for checking in…..

5 Responses to “Ryan and Jessica”

  1. Michele says:

    Julie, it must be hard to be so happy with Ryan while you are missing Jessie so much. She will watch over both of her brothers. In a sense, Ryan is her legacy. Although you’ll always wish she could be here with you, it’s really because of her that little Ryan is here at all. Michele

  2. Vicky says:

    Hi Julie,

    My offer still stands. I have several things that could use a good home (bouncer, swings, toys, car seat and matching stroller) if you want them…they are yours. I would gladly ‘trade’ some things with you. And the offer of a mural for the bedroom is still here as well. Depending on your thoughts, I could have it complete in as little as a few hours, or in a weekend…you let me know honey. Jessica will ALWAYS be there in your heart…and little Ryan will be home soon. All those fears and loneliness will go away. Let me help you, Julie. I would LOVE to give Ryan these things (and maybe a mural for Thomas too! Can’t forget that terrific Big Brother!!!)
    I’m here…let me know!!!

  3. Heather Dubin says:

    I can definitely empathize with your feelings Julie. I never got to bring home my firstborn Alexandra. Heck, I do not even have a clear memory of her. I was so heavily medicated when I saw her. I couldn’t attend her burial as I was in the hospital. BUT, I can only imagine your feelings. I can totally understand you calling Ryan by Jessica’s name.I called Joshua and Gabrielle both Alexandra. Michele is right, Ryan is her legacy. Jessica will watch over you, Tom and her brothers.

    God Bless and *hugs* to baby Ryan,

    Heather in Huntley

  4. Dawn Harbeck says:

    Julie,
    So glad to hear everyone is doing so great physically.

    Give the chair and lamp to Childrens memorial hospital for their play room for toddlers that are going through an illness. Or donate it to the White elephant downtown those funds go directly to Childrens hospital. Even the mcDonland house in Minn. would love to brighten a room and what a great way to continue the name of Jessica!

  5. Misti Yates says:

    Dear Julie,

    It is so good to hear that the little guy is off the feeding tube & doing well nursing. I am soooo happy for you all!

    I cannot imagine how difficult it must be going through Jessica’s room… I know that the presence of God will bring peace & be with you through each step. May the love and sweet memories with Jessica continue to bring happiness to you all :~)

    Much Love,
    Misti

Leave a Reply