V.I.R.U.S.

I originally thought our family’s stomach woes were was just something we ate. Five days later, when any “bad food” has well been eliminated and when the symptoms are still going strong, I can say with confidence that we have a virus. I can also say with confidence that I am so over bodily fluids.

I read somewhere that “I never knew I was strong until I had to be” (or something like that), and well I’ve totally seen that here. Between work and fishing trips, Tyler has been MIA for 75% of the time, leaving me (who is not 100% immune to the virus, either) to bear the burden of our household and our poor sick little babies.

It’s not been fun at all, but I would honestly say that I have loved it. I have loved being forced to stay home, be a full-fledged mother, and cuddle my little guys. I’ve loved doing what I can to entertain them, letting them sleep with me, purchasing a small stockpile of drinks with electrolytes, and being at their beck and call. Am I tired? Yes! Do I wish it didn’t smell bad? Yes! But am I glad to do it? Ugh…ok, Yes!

And the silver lining??? Through this, we’ve made huge progress in potty training Dash! I put him in underwear on Day 2 of the virus and low-and-behold, he’s had great success on the potty! Now, I know it seems counterintuitive to be in underwear when there is diarrhea, but I started it because his poor little booty was getting a diaper rash in those un-breathable pull-ups. With the underwear, at least there is a little air!

Sure, there have been accidents, but with a little encouragement from a prize bag (which has dwindled down to his least favorites—a cup, a book, and a leftover Chick-Fil-A prize), he’s been pretty good about listening to his body and telling us when he needs to go. And I couldn’t be prouder!

Please keep us all in your prayers as we continue to recover and get our bodies back on track. And whatever you do—stay FAR AWAY FROM US until this is all over. J