I swear – we have had about 10 days in 2013 where everyone in this family has been healthy. Currently, we are in the midst of a pretty awful stomach flu. I think, as usual, Audrey is getting hit the worst with it. Poor babe. She just can’t seem to catch a break with the germs. I had been waiting to wean her until I knew she was well from her last cold, and I am now so thankful that I have not, as she hates Pedialyte – so pretty much nursing has been the only thing keeping her hydrated the past few days.

Right now Bella has it too, but she seems to be getting a fairly light version of it. (I am almost afraid to say that, we’ll see if I am up all night with her after typing this though…)

Anyhow, in the midst of all this yuckiness – I wanted to jot down some things I don’t want to forget.

My little complicated Bella. I love her so much. I get so many snuggles and kisses (and plain old joyful moments) from Audrey right now, and I remember how at this age I got the same from Bella. I’m hoping Audrey will keep them coming. I miss my snuggle time with Bella. Having a baby sister has forced her to grow up in some ways to quickly. I think often Bella acts out a little when she notices that Audrey is getting so much attention (the babe simply requires it), but I’ve really been trying hard to be patient with Bella and show her love and kindness while being firm and carving out some special time just for us. I find it difficult to deal with an “attitude” or contrary outlooks from a 4 year old point of view – and so I really have to work at holding my tongue and remembering that she is just a kid. This past weekend, Bella and I had a long overdue Bella/Mommy date. We went to the beach and laid on the sand. We had a picnic, chatted, watched the waves – then walked down and fed and chased the birds and dug for sand bugs. Then we hit the park for a quick trip, until it was too cold. It was glorious. I loved every single moment of our afternoon. I love how she observes the little things around us at the beach. She loved the undivided attention. I loved our quiet time laying head to head on the sand looking up at the sky. I want to carve out some time to do this more often, as I think it is as important for her as it is for me.

There is so much joy in having both my girls together and seeing a friendship that I hope will continue to form. And there is so much joy in snuggling and playing with Audrey who is discovering so many new things through toddler eyes and learning new words daily. And there is so much joy in tightening my bond with my first born. I am truly blessed.

This is something I want to hold on to while I am being puked and pooped on this week. 🙂 (Seriously, I’m an idiot if I don’t put my hair in a ponytail all day, even when sleeping…especially when sleeping. Vomit wipes off skin – but hair requires showering. TMI?? LOL)