For the first year of Gabe's life he was the picture of health, as was I for that matter. Wait, I take that back, around 4 months Gabe did have some weird stomach thing that forced me off dairy for about a month, I missed cheese so much I felt sick, but Gabe was un-phased. Unfortunately the second year of Gabe's life has not been a repeat in the health department. This week Gabe has yet another head cold. Poor guy's nose has been runny, his bed has been at an incline, and his lungs have been attempting to flush out phlegm on and off for months. It seems like he he'll go one week without a cold, then two or three weeks experiencing some phase of a cold.
In general he just hasn't been himself, most notably, he isn't eating well and doesn't want to be alone. Neither of these behaviors are normal. For the most part Gabe eats what's in front of him, tries new things and runs to his chair when I say the word 'eat'. But lately he shakes his head and says 'no' - even when I tempt him with a hot dog. Before the lingering colds, Gabe and I finished breakfast and immediately afterward he run downstairs to play alone with his toys. Every once in a while he'd run to the bottom of the stairs to show me something, or bring something up he wanted me to play with but generally enjoyed time alone. That has not been the case lately. After I attempt to force feed him breakfast, he immediately wants to be held. The he requests that we sit side by side and watch some cartoons. If I attempt to leave or turn off the TV there are tears, so not like my little man.
I've posted multiple times about Gabe's love for books and his habit of sitting alone in his room reading. I was only needed for reading at nap time and bedtime, in fact he'd shew me away if I tried to encroach on his alone time. But the last few days he tugs at my hand saying 'bi-be' (Bible) and leads me to the couch where we can snuggle and read.
Andy's really noticed a change when he comes home. This time of day has always been the highlight for Gabe. He runs to the door and wants a hug from Daddy while he jabbers on and on about the adventures he's had with Mommy. Sadly, the last few days he doesn't even want Dad, just Mom. Poor guy and poor Dad.
This winter has shown me what a blessing health is and how long I took it for granted. And the truth is, this cold is minor compared to the average or what we're due . Gabe has only been prescribed one anti-biotic, never had an ear infection, or a fever that wasn't reduced by Tylenol, he's yet to vomit or experience diarrhea. We've had it pretty easy, which is also why I know how awful I am when I realize I just want Gabe well so I can get back to normal and get stuff done, rather than so he'll feel better. Sheesh.
Anyway, no good pictures of sick Baby Gabe or his Itching-to-move mom.
