Going Viral

This past week, our little Ethan has been battling a virus that has held a tight grip. Last Friday, Ethan developed a mild fever during the day, which rose and rose to above 105 and we found ourselves sitting in the ER. After being given some medicine, his fever dropped a bit and they told us it was probably a virus and sent us home. By Sunday, it was completely gone. Monday morning came, however, and his high fever had returned - even on the medicine, it was still around the 103-104 range. On Thursday, we discovered that, in addition to the virus, he has a double ear infection.

So, as I sit here writing on Friday, I would love to report that this virus has passed and his fever is gone, but we are still waiting for our little guy to get better. We are so thankful that his ear infection is starting to heal and are hoping that by tomorrow most of his ear pain will abate. This virus has lasted for longer than any we've ever experienced, and we are still hoping that his fever will break soon and are trusting that God will give us all grace until it does. While we hate to see him struggle, we cherish every moment that we get to care for and love on our baby boy - even at 3:00 in the morning!

We have also been so blessed by our "baby" girl (I use quotes because I can't believe how big she is). She has cared for and looked out for her brother in such a motherly and tender way. Even as he was getting tested at the doctor's and he was crying, she said to him, "Ethan, look at me. It's o.k. I'm here. Your Emma's here. You don't need to be afraid." Talk about melting a mother's heart! She has been so sweet and helpful and truly concerned about her little brother's well-being, and has been a great encouragement to us as parents.

I would also be remiss if I did not thank my constantly amazing parents who never cease to care for and help us. My mom was a tremendous help in the ER, and my dad who manned the home front with Emma in the middle of the night. They have made Gatorade runs, given countless hugs, and even ran over their Popsicle supply at 11:00 at night!

Here are some photos and a little video from our recent ER visit for you to enjoy. One thing we love about Ethan is his happy and joyful temperament, even when he is sick. He always manages to put a smile on our faces!

Ethan singing, "No More Monkeys Jumping on the Bed"

We are eternally indebted to Nani for coming with us, and for bringing her iPad for distraction!

After being poked and prodded, a very upset Ethan calmed down with a pond app that moves and sounds like water when you touch it - it even has fishies!