The Plague

Okay, maybe the plague is a bit of an over exaggeration, but it sure feels like it. The first half of winter went pretty smoothly for us. We managed to get through December without any sickness. Then January hit. And pretty much since then, one of us has had something. From colds to stomach flus, we've had it all. I'm so done. I'm tired of seeing my poor baby suffer through this stuff. It's times like this that, despite being very independent these days, I am reminded of how much Elliott relies on us. She hardly touches any food when she is sick which only makes it harder. I just want to hold her and let her know it's temporary. Of course, all the while, I'm here wishing someone would hold me and tell me it's temporary.

Tonight after dinner (me force-feeding Elliott half a yogurt), I put her in the bath. I knew something wasn't right as she whined and whimpered through the whole thing. She didn't feel too warm, but I took her temperature anyway. 101. She is just so miserable. Thank goodness for modern medicine that takes away her pain and allows her sleep peacefully.

Being a mother is such an amazing experience. Days like today help me understand my own Heavenly Father on a level I never could without Elliott. I can only imagine the pain he feels when he sees any of his children suffering (whether physically or emotionally). But seeing my own daughter suffer, helps me understand that relationship just a little bit more. Thank goodness for trials. They help me appreciate and find pleasure in the peaceful times.

Josh gave me a beautiful priesthood blessing of comfort a couple days ago that reminded me to look for the silver lining in these rough days. And so I do. I am constantly searching for the silver lining. And guess what? It's always there.

And there she is. In all her snotty glory!