We've got the Croup

Newbie's been a little bit off the past few days, and yesterday afternoon, while we were walking through Lowe's with Grandma (Newbie LOVES going into Lowe's), out of nowhere he became as hoarse as he could be, and was making us laugh because he was making noises just to hear his funny voice. 

A few hours later he was hacking like he'd been smoking 50 packs a day, and I knew we were in for a long night.  Sure enough, little man was in bed with us by 2 and was still barking away this morning.  I called our doctor only to find that he and all of his assistants were entirely booked for the day.  That is not the news a mama bear wants to hear at 9 o'clock in the morning with a sick baby barking from the high chair.  Since they were full, it was off to the ER for us bright and early today. It felt a little overkill to head to the ER, but the nurse on the phone said we really needed to get him in today and get that crazy cough checked out.  So off we went.

Our nurses at the ER were so helpful and caring. The first thing one of them did was bring in two super fun toys to keep Newbie busy and distracted. Its my firm belief that a nurse can really make or break your ER experience.  (A big thank-you to the nurses out there who come in with a smile and a caring demeanor- you are making such a big difference!) Once we got settled, the doctor came in and knew what Newbie had just as soon as she heard his hoarse little seal bark and had us taken care of and in and out of there in no time.  Newbie got to enjoy a few stories with Daddy and a yummy red slurpee before we left.

 (We never leave home without a Clifford book.  Ever.)

Now we're back home, Newbie snuggled up in cozy sweats and waffle-knit shirt after a warm bath.  We're camping out on the couch, and I'm learning that a little Elmo sure goes a long way when coupled with some warm orange juice and a binkie on stand-by.

It was really humbling seeing my little guy dressed in a hospital gown this morning.  I found myself swelling with gratitude that he is a healthy little boy, and my heart squeezing in prayer for the little kiddos who spend many of their days in those hospital gowns and the mommas and daddies who hold their hands. 

We are so thankful for good health today.  We'll be praying for the little ones who are still at the hospital before we munch on our grilled cheese and soup at lunchtime, and we'd like to invite you to do the same. Would you join us?

Wishing you all a happy and healthy Wednesday.