This year’s week after Christmas, which for us is usually filled with whirlwind visits to grandparents and fun at our “other” Christmases, has been all about doctor’s visits, expensive medicines, and worrisome nights sitting up with miserable children. I feel like our amazing Christmas has ended with a whimper. Adelade came down with the flu on Christmas night, and after her diagnosis was confirmed I took Emerald in and learned that she has RSV. Scary stuff.
Yet, even while I mourned the “wasting” of time off from school and missing out on family celebrations, the Holy Spirit has gently reminded me how blessed I am. As my children clung to me in their weakened states, and, yes, as they so kindly shared their germs (I write with a tissue in hand), I couldn’t help but remember all of those who desperately long for a little baby to fill their arms. I thought of the Sandy Hook parents who would’ve given their own lives to have their children, feverish or not, under their roofs this Christmas.
I don’t take these little miracles of mine for granted. Yes, they can be needy. But, just as I was telling Chad what a bad patient Adelade can be, I started getting sick and realized that she inherits that trait from me. And, when she drew a picture on the paper where I was keeping track of all the medicines and wrote, “I love you, Mama! I mean it! Have a nice day!” I immediately forgot any notion I had that she is a bad patient. And my day really did get better.
Emerald has been so sick that she went days without smiling. Talk about a heartbreaker. But, now she is beginning to feel better and I see glimpses of my funny smiley baby throughout the day.
And, Sawyer has served as Chief Get Well Card Maker, Comedian, and overall Cheer Master through it all.
These kids amaze me. And, I want to remember always, even when things aren’t exactly perfect in my mind, that I am so blessed to have little people’s noses to wipe. These kids make me better.
Fun is soon on its way. Until then, I will take care of my babies the best way I know how, and I will remember how wonderful life is. Merry Christmas and a very happy new year!
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