Putting priorities under the microscope

How to prioritize in 15 stesp — How to prioritize in 15 easy steps

We had received an email from school warning us that a stomach virus was going around my son’s class and was therefore not surprised (nor excited mind you) when kiddo succumbed a few days later. Poor little thing. Luckily after a mere 24 hours the fever had broken and he was once again nearly his boisterous self.

Then we received another note from the school. I am beginning to develop click dread. This one stated that a parent had confirmed their child had been infected with strep, a particularly nasty bacteria that can knock an adult flat on their hind quarters as well as lead to several other complications if left untreated. Awesome. I felt my throat tickle at the mere threat.

By the time I had gotten that note, tested kiddo, and put him on antibiotics, it was already too late for me. We hadn’t treated kiddo for strep, only for a 24 hour GI bug as was previously advertised. Did you know that strep manifests itself similarly to the flu in 4-6 year olds? They might not ever even complain about a sore throat or display any other outward symptoms. Sneaky buggers. Did you know they can remain contagious 2 – 3 weeks if left untreated? I didn’t. I guess you learn something new every day. Within a week I was rocking a moderate fever and my biggest accomplishment was getting dressed for the day.

Thankfully, having a good idea what my condition was in advance helped me seek out treatment sooner. All I had to do is rest for the next 48 hours while the antibiotics took hold. Amoxicillin, how I love thee.

Unfortunately I wasn’t the only victim. The hubby, too, developed a lovely case, leaving only the toddler in the clear. We had at least had the foresight to keep them separated. I guess the family that develops antibodies together stays together. Therefore he and I found ourselves in a frightening situation. We had two perfectly healthy, energetic little boys, who are too young to take care of themselves, and absolutely no energy to do just that.

I was told that having children will help teach you where your priorities lie. You find out what you are willing to sacrifice (i.e. spontaneous vacations, shopping sprees, watching first release movies at the actual theater, etc.) This is true – to a point. Those are all luxury items. Being sick with kids is actually the better teacher. That’s the situation when you learn what non-luxury items aren’t really that essential after all. I found out that I can survive in an extremely messy house. I don’t care if the kids’ shirts don’t match their pants if they can dress themselves. The toddler’s potty training can wait a few more weeks, he’s obviously not that into it. The kids only want to eat mac n’cheese or spaghetti? Fine. Deal. Here’s a multi-vitamin to chase it with.

Who knew that something like microscopic bacteria could teach me so much about myself?