A Hodgepodge

Poor Will's still battling his terrible flu. I took him to the emergency room Saturday (for 6 long hours) and they gave him an IV to rehydrate him and anti-nausea medicine that works like a miracle with vomiting. Unfortunately, it has no effect on the other end. We're both pretty tired of it all at this point, though, I can't complain. At least I'm not dealing with a raw bottom, endless diarrhea, and legs shaking from exhaustion. Most importantly, the rest of us have not (yet - fingers crossed) gotten sick.

Nate's regressing on his toilet training. Yesterday he had three or four accidents. At first I thought he might have a urinary tract infection. He'd been so good before. Now, I think it may be linked to Will getting all the attention with his illness. Nate hasn't had any accidents at school, or anywhere away of the house, since his backslide. He's even been staying dry at night.

I was within inches of really letting it rip on Nate last night. I know it's not fair and I have truly been unable to give him the attention he deserves the last several days. This flu's been all-consuming and I cannot wait for little Will to get better.

Rick's been my only relief, and I'm sure he'll be thrilled to have some down time once he gets home, not to take on diarrhea diaper duty so I can get away for errands. It feels like we're living parallel lives at this point, we're so busy trying to be the best at work and with the kids. We need to reconnect with some great dates where we can actually laugh and have fun together.

Rick's having laser eye surgery on Friday and because the doctor's in San Diego, I won't be able to be with him. He'll stay the night at his parent's down there and his mom will take him to the surgery. Makes my throat hurt a little thinking what a big deal this is for him and I won't be able to support him. It's just one more thing we're doing separately these days.

Nate just came downstairs and peed all over the tile. Patience. Patience. Do I put a diaper on his butt? Should I spank it first? Put him in his room? I've been trying to do the right thing by talking to him about being a big boy, having him clean it up and change, and we even "practiced" last night. Obviously those things aren't working. I'm really close to losing my mind.

On a happier note, my parents sent Will a balloon bouquet (Will's a balloon fanatic) which has really brightened his last couple days (he's helping push keys and move the mouse while I type - I can't say it's been really helpful). And they sent me a tulip bouquet and chocolates yesterday. Thank goodness for moms and dads. If only my kids can say that some day. I could cry (I'm a bit emotional right now) thinking about my parent's devotion and love for us and how whole-heartedly I love them. I would do anything for them and I only wish we could live closer. Times like these are easier to swallow when you have the support of family and friends.

Speaking of friends, my wonderful girlfriends, Kimberly and Colby, each made us dinners the last couple nights. They are amazing women, each juggling as much or more than me, and they made an extraordinary effort to make my life easier. Thank you, ladies! They allowed me time to have my hair done and to run errands last night, and eased Rick's burden of feeding the kids while I was out.

Today my sister, Natalie, finds out is she's going to have a boy or girl. Even though I'd be equally thrilled with either, I still can hardly wait to get the news. Nate's certain it's a boy. He points at her tummy and says "there's a baby boy in there." We'll see if he's right. No matter how rough it gets, there are always wonderful things to look forward to.