A Whirlwind Couple of Days -- Ups and Downs

On Thursday afternoon, we found out about Josh passing the Texas Bar exam. That night we went out to eat at a restaurant. Since I'm trying to save pumped milk for when I go back to work (originally on Friday 11/7), we decided to bring some formula.

We had a good dinner. Soon after, Ben started projectile vomiting. Throughout the night, he was losing fluids. At 5 am, his temperature reached 100 degrees. I called the on-call line for the third time that night. Luckily, Ben's pediatrician was the one on-call. She recommended we take him to the Emergency Room due to possible dehydration, his young age and temperature. This clearly meant that I was heading to the hospital on Friday morning, rather than to work.

Ben was examined, and after some tests, it was narrowed down to two possible causes:
1 - A reaction to formula due to an allergy
2 - A stomach virus

He was lethargic, except for when he was screaming during the IV placement (to replenish his fluids, he was dehydrated). The nurses tried in several places, for over an hour. Finally they were able to get a blood sample and get the IV drip going for him. Ben also started eating again... you know something is wrong when Ben does not want to eat!

Late in the afternoon we were moved to an examination room, where we stayed the night. Ben was starting to show signs of improvement, but was so young that they wanted to continue monitoring him for a little while.

Josh got me dinner and stuff for spending the night. My mom was a huge help, taking care of Ben (except for the obvious - feedings!) during the middle of the night so that I could get some rest. Ben was alert for a large portion of the night, which was great!

Here's Ben during his recovery time at the hospital. We brought him home this morning and hopefully will never have to do that again!





We still aren't sure what the cause was, but no more formula for now!

Once Ben was home, he seemed much more like his normal self. Lately that means he is much more alert, makes much more noises, loves to focus on wall hangings and mirrors and likes to grab items (including my hair - ouch!).

Here's Ben at lunch, joking around with Josh:



Ben loves his daddy!



In spite of the trials of the hospital visit, Ben weighs almost 12 pounds at 6 weeks of age and is very strong! Tonight he reached another milestone: his first smiles based on a reaction! He first smiled at my mother-in-law, and a couple minutes later I was able to capture one on film (right before he was over stimulated). He's growing up!