Can't Catch A Break...

Hayes loves his sister more than life itself. 

Here he's taking full advantage of a brief moment of Ella wanting to play with him.

I feel like such a "Debby Downer" all the time but unfortunately I don't have much positive to write.  It's been busy so I haven't had a chance to update on Ella since her throw up episode Sunday afternoon.  Since then she has not had anymore bouts of vomit but definitely has gone down hill from there. At least, after throwing up she felt immediately better. Monday came around and I took her to the doctor in hopes we might have strep or something treatable since her recent episode had just ended. Nope, all tests negative.   Her fever began to increase with each day and today she awoke with a 103.5. Fevers have not gotten higher than that. So this is day 3 of whatever we are dealing with.  I do believe Ella had her usually episode last week because of her symptoms - high fever, mouth sores, very sleepy. There is a pretty bad virus going around her school so perhaps that is what we are dealing with now. I don't know.

A friend from back home (Birmingham) sent me several great websites to read on possible ways to help Ella. One of them offers great natural ways to decrease fevers. One of the many downsides to pfapa is having to constantly treat Ella's fevers with Motrin and Tyl. It kills me to do so but when she has crazy high fevers I have to help her. Now when her fevers are lower (100-102) I do try to help bring those down naturally. Here is the web address Fever Cures
Apparently, apple cider vinegar is a wonderful cure for fevers, and eczema. Now getting Ella to drink it - just won't happen. I tried to sneak it in her water - just a tablespoon - and she immediately knew it. So I will try cooking with it. It may not have the same effect but it's worth a try. Below is a great recipe for Apple Cider Pork Chops. Ella loves it.  And also the spinach recipe is a favorite of her's though it doesn't contain apple cider, but spinach and pine nuts are filled with nutrients.

I will update on Ella tomorrow. Prayers for a better day.