Thankful

For the past week, we have been the parents to cranky, snotty, crusty, whiny, no nap taking, refusing to eat, fussy toddlers. We have been to the doctor. We have used Mentholatum (yes, even on their feet). We have stayed in our pajamas all day. We have stayed with Gigi and missed daycare. Other days, we have missed work. They have coughed. And then coughed and then coughed some more. They have refused to sleep and then coughed some more. It has been quite unpleasant. As I speak there is a screaming toddler in her bed that is supposed to be napping. My shoulders are tight with anxiety because I just really need a little peace. For just a few minutes. Because sleep was at a minimum last night...And then, I remember my drive home from Gigi's by way of Chick-a-Way {Chick-Fil-a} on Thursday. As we were taking our exit off the interstate to head home, I saw an ambulance coming from the opposite direction. They always stop me in my tracks just a little, but then I saw the Angel One Neonatal Unit sign on the side. I am not sure there will ever be a day that I am not reduced to tears when I see it. I know when I see those lights swirling and sirens blaring that someone is feeling those same feelings that I felt that night just over two years ago. Some one's baby will not be with them when they wake up the next morning. He, She, or They will be in another hospital, in another city being taken care of by someone other than their Mama. It breaks my heart, and it pulls up these memories that are precious and overwhelming at the same time. I love my babies. I love that they are healthy {relatively speaking} and that they can chat with me on the way home with the front seat full of Chick-a-Way, asking if they can have juice instead of milk with their chicken and french fwies, pwease?

I am thankful that this little girl has decided to sleep on her pillow with a blanket {well, sometimes}...


And that this little man loves to keep everyone laughing...


And that this little princess has finally decided to wear her princess costume. It only took me wearing it myself a few times to convince her it was well worth it.




P.S. I thought it had gotten quiet on the other side, but I don't think there is any napping in my future today. Must go rescue a toddler...