huge day today!  ethan was removed from the cpap machine and they were planning on giving him a run at not having the low dose oxygen as well.  so hopefully by this morning he won't have anymore tubes in his nose (i don't think he likes it much).  

his feedings are almost up to full feedings and he is handling them fantastically!  in the next few days, he should be able to have the tube removed from his navel.  Again one more tube down.  Actually, I think if those both come off and stay off he will be tube-free.  YEAH!

I went to visit him last night in hopes of holding him, but our nurse on duty was not comfortable with allowing holdings while his navel tube was still inserted.  She has witnessed a lot of tubes dislodging from holding and it causes a lot of bleeding...so needless to say, i was heartbroken but understood.  however, i was in time for bath time.  i assisted the nurse by holding him inside the isolette while she changed his bedding and prepared the bath materials.  he didn't like the washing much, but i got to rub on his lotion and he really seemed to enjoy this.  

then as if to say, "mommy stay with me.  i need you", he extended his little hand out.  i obliged and gave him my finger to hold on to.  he squeezed tight and held on till he started to doze off.  i waited till he was pretty much asleep to leave for the night with a goodnight wish.   sleep tight little ethan...mommy will see you in the morning.