Rio's Adventurous First Week

It sure has been a whirlwind of a week, starting with my water breaking (more like trickling) 10 days early. Even with that happening I had no other signs of labor and my body wasn't even showing any signs. Trying to steer away from any medical interventions (including induction), I chugged a few ounces of Castor Oil that dear G brought to the hospital for me. Within 2 hours I was in early labor:) The experience was like none other, and I couldn't have done it without Alex and our Doula, Marissa. They coached me through each and every contraction, even when I wanted to give up. I am so thankful for the chance to allow my body to do what its made to do. And the reward was our beautiful baby boy, Rio.....

By pure happenstance, Rio was born on the same day Bill and Ivonne had a layover in Denver on their way to see Ben. They surprised us in the hospital for a visit, unfortunately it was cut short with the need to get Rio to Denver. It was great Rio got to meet his Blank grandparents on his first day in this world.
Then the adventure began...Rio got a space ship (ambulance) ride to Denver with a new friend. Another baby, born under similar circumstances (water breaking early, possibility of lung infection, and labored breathing) had to head to Denver too, so they shared a ride. Luckily the winds were too high to fly by helicopter, because the NICU team prefers to fly if its a nice night.
Once in Denver, Rio's breathing improved immediately....to only show signs of jaundice due to he and I having incompatible blood types. So then he got to spend some time under the BillyBlanket. He looked like a weird sci-fi glowworm!
Alex and I shared shifts in the NICU, holding baby Rio as much as possible, he is so soft and cuddly!
Upon returning to the mountains, we found out Rio would need O2 support for a few weeks, which is very normal for babies living above 8000 ft altitude (we live at 9500). It is a bit challenging to be attached to a tank, and Rio hates the tubes-for not having any muscle control, he sure can get a hold of those tubes and tug consistently!!!!

This week of adventures has left us all exhausted, but on cloud 9. Thanks for all the support and well wishes. Rio can't wait to meet you!