See ya January

Winston in the hospital :(

So the boys decided to kick off the new year with RSV and then pink eye! Winston had so much trouble breathing we had to go to the ER and then ended up staying over night. Although it was exhausting to sleep in a twin bed with a 16 month old, I also realize how lucky we are to not have anyone chronically ill requiring us to be at the hospital on a long-term basis. The people at East TN Children's Hospital are wonderful but a hospital visit is never fun.

Meanwhile, we have had an ice storm and what felt like a blizzard in these parts. Of course in East Tennessee fashion, it was sunny and warm 24 hours later. Alexander got to play outside in the snow with daddy, and the boys loved watching from inside.

The babies are doing well. Winston still walks around like he owns the place. Theodore is either hanging on me or off doing something on his own. Benjamin has been very happy and content. All are understanding so much and starting to say words (in addition to momma & dada, banana, apple, "i want that!", and more) and animal sounds. They definitely have a love/hate relationship with each other. They know each other so well, it is so interesting to watch how they know and respond to each other.

Alexander finally has his colors down. I think his favorite is green. He has gotten so self-sufficient about a lot of things too- he goes to the bathroom when he needs to, helps feed the babies/fetch their cups when they drop, and go get a snack when he's hungry (this is not always a good thing...) He is excited about his birthday party in February: Buzz Lightyear!

A couple of highlights in early 2013:

• We finally decided to introduce teeth-brushing to the babies. They actually freaking love it and we have to tear the brushes away from them. Don't worry - their teeth weren't totally neglected until now. But we just did the ole swipe with the wet washcloth until now.

• All of a sudden I feel like I am living in a nudist camp. Alexander insists on sleeping in the nude and the babies feel the most comfortable in their birthday suit. I don't know how long this will last but I'm sure right around the time I start to get used to it, it will no longer be appropriate.

• Alexander has discovered donuts and he likey. I wish Krispy Kreme could secretly mix in a serving of veggies so I could feel better about it. But they are just so dang good.