Home.

We've all been waiting for it to happen and it seems surreal that it finally has. That's right, Milo is home. I guess the boy really wow-ed the NICU parole board (i.e., Dr. Dudell, Blanca, and primary nurses), because last night at about 7:00 pm Milo walked out a free man. Well, not so much walked as wheeled out in a double stroller. But the effect is the same!

Above: Donna, one of Milo's primary nurses, lifts Milo out of his crib for the last time. This week several of Milo's primary nurses attended him for his farewell tour -- Janet, Dana, Sandra, Donna. He also got regular visits from all of the others who gave him such great care along the way. (The NICU had a sudden influx of sick babies over the last couple weeks, and many of the babies' nurses were attending to some very sick 24 and 25 weekers.)

Elaine and Donna wheel out M&M in their double stroller departing the Nursery 3 feedlot. Ah, who doesn't LOVE a double stroller? What fun would shopping be without an aisle full of these massive vehicles to navigate around. That's right, now we got one too!

NICU staff and several parents gather to send us off. To put our ordeal in perspective, the lady second from left has triplet 25-weekers, and the lady in the center has a 24-weeker. Their babies are doing well, which is a testament to the great care offered at Alta Bates.

Donna, Cheryl, and Eniko with M&M. By now these ladies are familiar faces on the blog. And they've each spent so much time caring for the babies that I think they now have an ownership share. I should probably set up some kind of time share.

Elaine and I finally get to remove our blue hospital bracelets.

Exiting Alta for the last time as patients.

Saying good-bye. It's bittersweet moment. The nurses and staff have become a part of the family. How do you thank someone for saving your children? I gave them a gift bag of chocolate...

Milo lays down in his crib at home for the first time.
How did the first night with twins go? I think Elaine's expression is more upbeat than the first morning after Maddy came home. At center is Milo working out in his baby gym. He banged out about 10 push-up & head turns this morning. Due to all the time he's spent on his back, we have to be sure to get Milo plenty of tummy time while he's awake to help him develop better muscle tone in his arms and shoulders.

What's next?