Thursday, February 5, 2009

Why I Like Sick Kids

There's a tiny part of me that enjoys when my kids aren't feeling well.

What? You evil, sadistic mother!

Let me explain. For the past four-plus years, when my boys are sick, instead of wanting to play with their cars or swing in the front yard, they just want mommy. They want to curl up on a couch and let me read to them, snuggle with them and bring them crackers and juice on the couch. They lose the energy to resist parental requests, the urge to battle each other dissolves, and they even don't mind lying their heads in my lap while I stroke their hair -- in fact, I would even go as far to say they like it.

While I would prefer them to be healthy, if there is an upside to a case of a queasy stomach or lingering low-grade fever -- the bonding is hands down the silver lining. What mom doesn't love that?

Since Lucy's only been with us (four days shy of) 5 months, we haven't had too many sick days. In fact, the one time she was sick, she had only been home for a few days and I was the last person she wanted near her. But tonight, during my little hurricane's 102.8 fever and a stomach bug, she couldn't have been more engaged and cuddly -- just lying in my arms, babbling her thoughts with that big toothy grin she gets when she knows she's cute and will get anything she wants. When I would get up to help her brothers with something, she would sit up and wait for me until I could come back and hold her again. No tantrums, no climbing, no demands -- just giggles and snuggles. I could get used to this.

When you have your child from the very beginning of their life, I think it's easy to take for granted that your baby knows you'll be there, no matter what. Of course the boys feel that way, we've loved and supported them since day one. But with Lucy, you can actually feel her opening up every time her needs are met -- honestly and truly met. Each time she's comforted immediately after falling down, or smiled at when she wakes up -- realizing we'll always be right there to greet her with hugs and kisses. It's meeting her needs -- both physical and emotional -- many, many times a day, every single day for months and even years at a time, when the true bond becomes solid.

Because no matter what others may say, it doesn't happen overnight.

So when Lucy's feeling vulnerable, like when she's under the weather like tonight, I will continue to use her pain to my advantage -- enjoying the opportunity to take our relationship to the next level.

Because when that happens, we all feel good.

11 comments:

Anonymous said...

oh my goodness! you have the most darling children! love your blog. great design. keep it up.. love your style :)

Anonymous said...

I was just thinking that yesterday! Nick only wants to hold me when he's not feeling well/hurt. I know that sounds terrible but otherwise, I'm reduced to begging him for a 2 second hug.

Tisra said...

Jackie- I KNOW WHAT YOU MEAN!

OUr Dean is a cuddle bug anyway. But the other two- I only get cuddles in spurts, so when they're sick and want all of that.... I soak it up!

I thank God that we're a normally healthy bunch, and rarely encounter it. But, when it comes along- I get on the comfy clothes, pop in a good movie, and snuggle away with a content sigh. :-)

Tisra
waiting on Dorothy
http://lifetrain.blogspot.com
www.tisrafadelyoriginals.etsy.com

Expecting Good Things said...

I knew what you were going to say with just the title of your post! Isn't that the truth! You always know if they're feeling better when they're running crazy again huh? Wow 5 months! I can't believe its been that long already!
Holli

Anonymous said...

the last ime my mom took the boys the youngest was sick and i asked if she was she wanted to take him, and she said "OF COURSE! he's sick, that means he will actually cuddle with me!!!!" she was so excited since he is always on the go and not much of a cuddle bug until its time to go to bed.

McQuivey Family said...

I can relate. After 6 weeks home with Zane, he got sick. It was the first time he rested his head on my shoulder. Greatest feeling ever, including the warm throw-up down the shirt!

Tami and Bobby Sisemore Family said...

aww I so understand. And there is something about nursing a baby back to health that makes you feel like a mama!

hugs,
Tami
who is tryin to type with asquirmy noah in her lap! ;) heehee
www.tillGodbringsthemhome.blogspot.com

momwithfaithandhope said...

I could not agree more. It doesn't happen over night, and use whatever it takes to bring your relationship with your Lucy to the next level. Now, go cuddle up on that couch with her before she makes a quick recovery and is climbing all over ya!

Room for More said...

oh I am so right there with you Jackie! E, who is always on the go, has wanted to rest (and even nap) while laying on my chest. Even though she is 102+, I am loving every minute too! I hope our girls feel better soon, but let's enjoy every cuddle in the meantime!

Thanks for such a heartfelt post!
Shannon

Shirley H. said...

so sweet moments~ i understand as my god daughter fall sick while the mum took a few moment off to care for the little brother.. she is cuddle with me..

Paula Perry said...

i feel the same way. Sarah will only sit still long enough for me to have nice big cuddle when she is sick. she will snuggle with me for hours. normal it would be a quick hug and she's off. so i get you.