The winter has been a little rough. There seems to be a lot of bad bugs going around...ones like RSV, influenza, rotovirus...its been a bit yucko. The worst part of these ailments is that there's not a medicine that you can give a toddler that makes them magically go away. In many cases, you have to wait it out--- treating the symptoms as best we can and letting the virus pass. Its so frustrating, especially when they can't tell you what symptoms you have and you can't explain to them that if they rest, it will get better in time.

I feel so bad when he's sick, especially when he gives me the "sick eyes." Because he can't tell me how he feels, I pay close attention to his eyes...his "sick eyes." Just what exactly are these? Well, I'll describe them: They are these sweet little eyes, surrounded by slightly red, sunken in eye socket. They are slightly more watery than normal. And they have heavy eyelids that are straining to open wide. They just look sad.

And when they gaze at you with these "sick eyes," your heart just melts and all you want to do is make them feel better. So, you cuddle on the couch and read books or watch Baby Einstein. You rock them as you hold them close. You don't dare move when they fall asleep on you, because they are finally confortable. There have been many moments of deep staring between me and the "sick eyes." And these gazes make me feel even more connected to him.

Slowly, those sick eyes go away...a sign the Jack is getting better, which is a good thing...a great thing. He goes from being slow and snuggley to walking and on the go. Although the cuddling is really sweet, I'm always glad when his eyes go back to being bright and energetic. I'll be so glad when these winter bugs are all gone. Come on Spring!!!