One of the first things our doctor's told us about Annabella's stay in the hospital was that the next few months would be a rollercoaster ride. One doctor actually described the preemie "dance" as three steps forward and two steps back. That's proven to be a pretty accurate assessment.

Yesterday we learned that Annabella is having some trouble with her tummy (too put it simply). She's demonstrating some potentially serious symptoms but hopefully the doctor's and nurses will be able to treat her before they get too problematic. At this stage they are watching a few key areas in her abdomen. She's not out of control or anything like that but she does need to be watched pretty carefully. Right now she's on three different antibiotics with pretty regular x-rays and blood tests.

Aside from her tummy, though, she's very active. She's so active that she already pulled the tubes part way out of her nose (did I already tell you that?). They've had to restrain her a bit - sort of tough to watch as a parent - but that option is better for her than more Morphine. Her arm restraints have proven to be good training for her preemie-monkey skills. She likes to pop her little foot out of her blankets and try and get it up by her head. I figure by tomorrow she'll be using that big toe to scratch her ears.

Anyway, Annabella and her mom and dad are hanging in there, staying calm and listening intently to the doctors and nurses. All of the positive energies and prayers we've received have been truly helpful. Thank you. But, I'm gonna be do my best salesman pitch and solicit more. Please take a moment and send a couple positive thoughts Annabella's way (like you're not already) - the next few days are gonna be a little rough and she can use all she can get.

Love from the dad (and of course the mamma).