Family Update

In January, Austin caught a horrible stomach bug that lasted for 13 days. We kept thinking he was on the mend because he would go a few days without diarrhea/vomit, but then start up again. The two things that remained constant were no appetite and extreme lethargy. It seemed like it would never end! I had to cancel 3 preschool days and took him to the doctor on day 11 because it was lasting so long, and I wanted to be sure something bigger wasn’t going on. The pediatrician confirmed that it would run its course and there wasn’t anything to prescribe. He did say that if it continued we would look into food intolerances.

Caleb and Matt also got sick. Matt started a few days after Austin and Caleb started not feeling well 4 days after Matt. I have to admit that I wasn’t the patient, doting wife I should have been. I was tired of cleaning up vomit and diarrhea from Austin and staying on top of the daily laundry; also Austin just wanted to be held all day long. It was fun to cuddle with him but prevented me from getting things done as much as I wanted. If I wasn’t holding him, he was even whinier than normal. So Austin sucked out any extra energy, and Matt pretty much had to fend for himself while he was sick. On the days he stayed home from work (Friday and a ½ day on Monday), he cuddled with Austin so I could get things done. Caleb missed 3 days of school—he only vomited once but he was weak/shaky, feverish, and had no appetite. Caleb lost a total of 4 pounds and Matt lost 9.5 pounds!

Bryson is always saying, "Take our picture! Look at how cute we are!"

I put a snack in front of Austin one day while I was making his lunch and he fell asleep!

Babysitting my nieces

Since being sick, Austin has had an obsession with Rice Krispies. He will eat 2-3 bowls a day. This picture captured a great facial expression, so we sent it to Kelloggs asking for their help supporting our son's addiction. They sent a $1 off coupon.

"More Please"

It can get pretty messy.

Now in February, baseball season is upon us. Starting this week our lives will be a lot busier and more hectic. Matt is not coaching this time which takes off some of the stress. Both Caleb and Carter made a premier team this season (the more advanced team), and they both happened to get assigned the team of Astros. They are ecstatic about it. We're looking forward to a great season!