Camille's mother came into town for a four-day visit this week. That would normally be great news, but this time the visit went sour. Camille, her mother, and I contracted food poisoning after ordering from Kalliope. Camille's mom was briefly hospitalized: food poisoning can be particularly tough at 88.
We're all recovering slowly: two days later I've had four Saltines and am drinking a cup of tea. We're just sorry that Mom's trip was spoiled by the incident.
This story has a silver lining, however. While Camille and I were at the height of our sickness, sometimes retching simultaneously into our two toilets, the kids (who had eaten pizza) did an amazing job taking care of us. They were attentive and brought us glasses of water or the telephone or books. They were respectful and stayed away while we napped. They prayed for our recovery. Jessica even tried to do all the kitchen dishes herself and read a story to Camille.
Most amazing, they did not fight. I can't remember another day when they played so peaceably. They never raised their voices all day.
They were a bit scared at seeing both of us sick, and I think they were even scared by the weird sort of carnival day they had. They enjoyed unlimited access to TV and video games—a first for our household. Their diet tended towards M&Ms, fruit snacks, and other sugary treats.
Still, it was wonderful to know that they can pitch in when they need to.
3 comments:
Congratulations on how well behaved your children were. It sounds like you are doing a good job as parents.
So this could be looked at as a "bonding experience"? Or an enforced weight loss plan?
There are always lots of silver linings, but the children stepping up to the plate is the best.
I found out just what I do for them when I have been sick. It appears the kids have noticed many things that I haven't! I move just so, and the patterns, etc... wow. Who knew?
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