I remember the first time my beautiful little San Francisco girl got sick. She was almost 10 months old (I know, I was super lucky I got to put it off that long!) and the poor thing was miserable. Fortunately for me, and unfortunately for them, it landed perfectly in sync with a visit from my fantastic in-laws, who were able to assist with doctor visits, rocking and cheering up a grumpy baby, and letting me rest when I inevitably also got sick.
Fast forward a few years, and we've had many sicknesses come through our family. This year has been the worst by far! You'd think by now I'd be a pro at it, but every time illness hits our family, I feel like I'm a stationary bike - constantly in motion, and not getting anywhere.
This week has been tough, not the toughest ever, but tough. I've realized that something doesn't have to be the hardest thing you've ever experienced to be tough. Having all 3 babies sick in various stages, and reacting differently, is a juggling act that requires a ton of patience. Have I mentioned patience is a struggle of mine?
The hardest one for me this week has been the baby. EBE (Easiest baby ever) has not been living up to her title this week. The poor thing has been feverish, having tummy trouble, and terrible diaper rash. This all adds up to a baby who takes close to an hour to put to sleep because she's so uncomfortable, but only can stay asleep for 30-45 minutes at a time. *Cue insane music.* It's been a. long. week.
There's a light at the end of the tunnel! My son came down sick first, and is mostly back to good health today, so hopefully his sisters will soon follow suit. That doesn't negate today, though. Sometimes I have hard days, hard weeks, and lose patience. Sometimes (maybe more than sometimes!) it feels like there's not enough mommy to go around. And the balancing act is holding those valid emotions, acknowledging the struggle, and letting yourself embrace it - while never losing sight of the hope that is tomorrow.
