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Bark! Bark!
The deep, bellowing tone is echoing through my home. I mute the TV and listen carefully. I can hear the snores coming from my dog and the gentle purr of my cat snuggled on my lap.
Bark! Bark!
Is there another dog in my house? Outside maybe? A seal? I move the writing assessments aside, gently slide the cat from my lap, and dodge the dog as I make my way towards the stairs.
Bark! Bark! Sniffle!
Concerned mommy has now taken over. I go from a quiet tip-toe to a full out run as I sprint up the stairs to my son's room.
Bark! Bark! Groan.
"Hey baby, what's up." I gently rest the back of my hand onto his forehead. I quickly pull it away and the concern must show on my face because T asks, "Am I really sick mama?" My hand still tingles from the heat that is being generated from my boy. I could easily fry an egg on his forehead. "Yeah buddy, it looks like you've got a pretty bad one. Come with me."
My 50 lb. son wraps his legs around me and scalds me with his forehead as he rests it on my shoulder. His head must feel like a bowling ball because he can't seem to hold it up.
Bark! Bark!
Warm cider is being warmed in the microwave as I gather up Tylenol, ear thermometer, a cool compress, and some Lifesavers. As I gently slide the thermometer into his ear, T lets out a small grown. His ears are tender but he's trying to be tough...102.7. My heart sinks and I run through everything my mom has taught me. Bring the fever down, cool him off, be strong, and pump fluids into him. As I lay the cool compress on to his forehead, he sighs. "Is it too cold?" "No mama, it feels really good but it's getting warm. Can you cool it off again?"
Bark! Bark!
The night continues as the fever begins to break. Lifesavers were sucked on and several cups of cider and Gatorade were drank.
He is feeling better this morning but his deep bark still sounds painful. I am again reminded how hard it is to be a mom. All I want to do is take his pain away....at least I can be here by his side to snuggle and baby him.
So sorry your son is sick, but you do know how to spin a tale. I thought maybe you lived near the coast and there really was a seal! Slowly comprehension dawned, then I could relate to your anxiety. I hope T gets well soon, but you will have to share how he got into your story. Stay well!
ReplyDeleteWhat a cute story--sounds and looks like a book to me!! I was with my recovering 32 year old son yesterday after his surgery on Friday. Some things never change, and that's being a mom. Your son will always need you.
ReplyDeleteOh what a loving story, but it is so hard on moms. My new granddaughter was a bit peaked last week (2 months) and my daughter was upset and worried and what can you do with a baby, etc.! You give such good details, Elizabeth. I hope he's now much better.
ReplyDeleteOh what a cute story and I feel your pain-the pain of a sick or hurt child. I have to say the coughs, fevers, and broken bones are nothing compared to the broken heart (first love) of a child. At least you can give a fever Tylenol. I hope the bark turns to laughter soon. :)
ReplyDeleteThe bit of dialogue about the cool compress is so charming. He just sounds so pitiful--even I want to take his pain away! I am glad all the techniques in your mommy toolkit seemed to help!
ReplyDelete