Help for the sick

Happy New Year! (Although I've been told to say as much is outdated. That's never stopped me before.)

Our Christmas in Florida was enjoyable, the 12-hour drives, both there and back, could not have been easier. I'm happy to report that my children managed to make both trips with only three stops each way and were as sweet as could be expected while being strapped in their carseats. Florida was not as warm as we hoped (we should have brought heavier jackets) but it was warmer than the 11 degree weather that greeted us upon our return. I do feel a little Jane Austen-ish speaking so much about the weather...I must not have anything more important to say. Speaking of the author, we listened to much of Northanger Abbey in the car, as well as Animal Farm, and a little Pippi Longstocking thrown in for good measure. We came home and spent a short time with my husband's family as they celebrated Christmas over New Years. I hope to brave the cold weather soon and go out to the van and get my batteries out of the cd player so I can take a picture of my son in his new army helmet, belt and canteen, and rifle. He has worn the get-up for days now, even while in his pjs. Pretty cute. When we told him how comforting it was to have a soldier at home to protect us he did make clear that it was a costume, and not to expect much protection from his 4-year-old self.

Baby T was cranky and unpleasant for much of our time away, due to some sort of illness that he generously spread to all his siblings. We now have some irritable, snotty, coughing children and two fairly tired parents. Last night WH had the genius idea (and I don't say that sarcastically) to pull Baby T in bed with us so that when he woke up every 30 minutes or so we wouldn't have to get out of bed and take care of him. Genius= more sleep. I have several friends dealing with babies who are much more sick than mine, and I have learned/am learning to pray less for the kids to be quiet and sleep and more that God would make me cheerful as I care for them.

I did want to pass on this website and advice for anyone else who is or will be caring for sick kids this winter: Ask Dr. Sears. The link is specifically for dealing with children who have coughs and colds, but I find much of his health advice practical and of the "less is more" school of thought. He provides several scenarios of illnesses that don't need medical care, and what to look for that may require immediate medical attention. My idea of what is "normal" is often skewed by my motherly desire to see my children well and free of discomfort, as well as my lack of sleep from caring for them. Anywho...hope someone finds that helpful.

The mail lady is here, delivering a week and a half worth of mail for us. In the midst of mounds of laundry the mail is always a welcome part of returning from a trip!