The First Virus
Today is Monday, August 30, 2004.
Yesterday was a rather strange Sunday. Not only did we stay home from church, but I gained a new appreciation for the full-time nature of my wife’s mothering duties.
My nine-month-old son, Andrew, is suffering from a cold virus. He caught the cold from a three-year old that my wife, Carolyn, was babysitting. We feel blessed that it was nine months before Andrew developed his first real sickness. As is often the case with these viruses, Andrew shared with his parents. Carolyn has a mild case of it and I’ve been taking Airborne and trying to keep the tickle in my throat from progressing into something worse.
We all stayed home from church to rest and take it easy. The day consisted mostly of sleeping, eating, and taking care of Andrew. Even though he was sick and practically falling asleep at times, the last thing Andrew wanted to do was take a nap. Contrary to his normal good disposition, Andrew was fussy and cranky most of the day. Toward the end of the day, we decided that part of his problem was that he was having trouble filling his diaper. Carolyn gave him some diluted prune juice, which he drank with great enthusiasm.
This morning, I pulled him out of his crib and changed his diaper. No advancement there. He also still seemed rather cranky and sick. I hope that Carolyn has a better day with him today.
Sunday was rather tense at times, especially when we felt sick and wanted to rest, and Andrew just cried. I’ve had trouble understanding when Carolyn would tell me that Andrew took up all her time. I can see better now that some days are just full of baby, without much time left over to get anything else done. That’s my little bit of inspiration. I’ll try to be more understanding on those days when I come home from work and see the dishes piled up and dinner running late.
Sunday evening, Andrew finally went to sleep and Carolyn and I spent some special time together.
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