Keep your sick kids at home

I almost didn’t post this because I look exactly how I feel. Jacked up. And I’m not talking Jack Daniels. I’m talking tired, sick, chap-lipped, and annoyed. Bad lighting, too. But, hey. This is what happens when I’m in the trenches of 2 weeks worth of illnesses. So, here it is.

I have a burning question for you.

WHY, oh why, do parents bring their sick children to playdates, the park, to the mall, the food court, to the library, storytime… etc. Why?

Suffice it to say that I’m having one of those weeks. And while I see that my glass is half full, open closer examination, I see that it’s half FULL OF SLIMEY TISSUES.  Jeees!

How often does it happen? You’re out with your precious, dry nosed, bright eyed children. Maybe even perusing the toy aisle at Target. Suddenly, a little cutie, about the same age as yours makes a b-line over to the Dora toys, too. The kids, in their unspoken language make fast friends and suddenly they’re playing nice. You make small talk with the other Mom, admiring the sweet play happening at your feet. Then suddenly… you spy your new little friend smearing drippy snot across her upper lip with her tiny hands.

Wait. Oh, no.

Then, she takes a few quick short breaths… and…. a-a-ACHOOOO!, spraying my babe’s face.

Dammit.

Two days later, my 3 year old starts with a fever. Then a runny nose. Then a cough.

We cancel our planned play dates. Stay home.

Two days after that, my 1 year old begins his fever. Then his nose starts dripping. Coughing, too. Then, 3 days later, he’s pulling on his ears and has a fever. Take him to the doc’s. Yep, now he has an ear infection. Antibiotics follow.

Now, you’re sick, too. Probably sleep dep from all of those late night wakings. Stuffy nose. Cough.

Then your husband gets it.

Here we go ’round the sick-berry bush. Wheee!

Great.

I know it’s hard to stay at home with your sick kids. Cabin fever is very real. I get it. But for the love of a good night’s rest, which elude me AGAIN, PLEASE STOP.

STOP bringing your drippy, sneezy, fevered babies out to play.

I’m not talking about working parents who don’t have a choice but to take your child to a caregiver.

You know who you are!

Just STOP!

Thanks.