Alice has her first ear infection. She showed symptoms of a cold on Friday and by Sunday she was absolutely miserable. I noticed that she was sticking her finger in her ear and every once in a while she would cry like she was in real pain. I took her to the doctor this morning and she was diagnosed with a pretty bad ear infection. I initially felt apprehensive about taking her in because it seems like a I take her in every time she has a cold and I come off as a hysterical mother. Well needless to say I was very glad I took her in. At least I know she'll start to feel better very soon. Another symptom of the cold and ear infection is decreased appetite. Alice hasn't wanted to eat much at all and it is killing me. I spend a lot of time coming up with a balanced meals for her and lately I end up throwing most of it away. It's also a lot of pressure to be completely in charge of someones else's nutrition. I have to make sure she gets enough protein, vegetables and dairy so her body and brain will develop properly. So when she refuses to eat I feel totally panicked. I'm also worried that I have caused her to dread meal time because often end up forcing her to eat. I know I shouldn't do this but sometimes I can get her to eat if I can just get her to taste it.