These are the days

These are some of the days that I always want to remember. . . Bradley's 3rd Birthday and Austin's Homecoming! Bradley's birthday was wonderful; it was filled with loved ones and great weather. He had a big time with his friends, a last "hoorah" before we go into hiding and he can't be around any of his little friends. He enjoyed eating lunch with all of his best buds, opening lots (and lots and lots!:-) )of great presents, and enjoying yummy cake. Then, we ended the festivities with some time outside on the playground. Even Lexi and Brayden got to join in the special day. As we were packing up, all of Bradley's balloons floated out of the car and up into the sky. Chris asked if I knew were they had gone, and we both smiled. Our two youngest children got to share in the fun with Bradley's Mickey Mouse themed balloon. It meant a lot to us, and we feel sure that they hand-picked the gorgeous, sunny day just for their big brother's birthday. We took Bradley to Waffle House, his favorite, last night. He enjoyed a waffle and bacon, then went to Wal-mart to stock up on groceries. Bradley was allowed to pick out a special birthday gift for himself. He picked out a Tonka truck mat and loaded it into the buggy himself. We're going to get a play set/swing set it's just going to take awhile for his birthday. We had a wonderful last weekend just the 3 of us. I was a little emotional last night as we put Bradley to bed thinking that would be the last time before Austin came home. Austin homecoming makes it official that we've gone from having 1 child to 2 children at home- it's the end of an era for the Wickers. So, Austin is home. It has been a good afternoon with him. We left the hospital hospital around 3:30pm today. Austin was wheeled from room to room of the NICU, so we could say our goodbyes to everyone who was there today. We were so excited to be taking Austin home, but a lot of those nurses seem like family to us now- so it was a little sad. Plus, all we've been through sine we first step foot in that NICU 15 1/2 weeks ago- wow, I had no idea what the outcome would be- but we're so grateful to take our little miracle home. Austin has done well so far at home. I've given him 3 bottles so far; he gets them every 3 hours. I just finished his 11pm bottle, changed his diaper and outfit, and gave him some tummy time. Chris is on call today and tonight, so he left to go back to work after Bradley went to bed at 9. Austin and I have just been hanging out. He is a good boy, feed him and he's happy! He is on oxygen and an apnea monitor, which we thankfully haven't had any alarms so far. We have tons of doctor's appointments to schedule: surgeon, opthomology, pulmonology and the list goes on. We see Austin's pediatrician on Wednesday for his 1st well baby check. Chris is taking Wednesday off and will be able to go to that with us- praise the Lord I'm so glad he is off for that. I was a little nervous about driving all the way across town with 2 boys and all of Austin's equipment. I know I'll have to do it eventually, but I'd rather adjust to life at home first. It will all be good though- God has a plan and we're rejoicing in this wonderful time right now. It's so awesome to have Bradley, Austin, Chris, and me under one roof. Bradley has already told us, "Me love Austin." That is how all 3 of us feel right now, we want to enjoy everyday, and make the most of the blessings that God has given us.