I have learned a lot of things during this time, so I thought I would share just a few of them.
- Ask for help. I am not usually an 'ask for help' type of girl, but when it comes to kids and illness I will gladly ask for help when I need it. Shuttling back and forth to the hospital each day can be hard on the family, and having a little break for siblings is a huge bonus.
- Eat. You would think this one was obvious, but you would be surprised how many times I forgot to do just that. Eating is something we do as part of our routine, but when that routine is thrown out the window, little things like eating are forgotten.
- Sleep. Getting enough rest during these times can be a challenge. Not only is your regular routine completely gone, your emotions are on edge, your goals have been rearranged and you are out of the 'groove' of your life. Do it anyway.
- Prioritize. When dealing with something as out of the ordinary as an extended hospital stay, it is important to do the needed things in life. You will still need clean clothes, you still need to clean the kitchen (well, at least every once in a while), and you still need to pay the bills. If it isn't vital, let it go. If it is vital, don't forget to do it.
- Enjoy the change in routine. I know it sounds odd, but even during stressful times like this, find joy in the change in routine. Sleep in if you don't have to go to work. Read a book while waiting for doctors. Cuddle with the other kiddos when you are waiting around. Things like this tend to slow you down, and using that time to enjoy the things you usually are too busy for can be a blessing.
