Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Between Illnesses, There was Life

This last month was a merry-go-round of illness in our family. The preschoolers brought home various bugs, which were passed around to each family member, until they were replaced by a new bug.  In between all the vomit (and laundry), snot, coughs, and medications, life continued.

Linus learned to tie his shoes, and graduated from velcro shoes to his papa's favorite: New Balance sneakers.
Anders spiked a fever on a day that we didn't have Farmor or Lola to come to the rescue, and neither of us could miss work.  So I brought him to the shelter with me, a "hail Mary" move, if you ask me.
The little deviant surprised me, keeping occupied with snacks and short shows. He even watched a surgery without contaminating my sterile field. I wish I could say he helped out with my surgery records.
One rainy weekend we finally bit the bullet and bought the electric drum set we've been dreaming of. Linus' nonstop tapping and knocking on tables, walls, and doors finally drove me to the edge. The kit ended up in my bedroom, but on the bright side, it can be payed with headphones.
Mid-April we put on the school's biggest fundraiser, attracting thousands of people and raising almost $100k.  DogFest is always a huge endeavor and success, thanks to hundreds of parents and volunteers.  All the kids care about are the treats and games, they remember the special day when their little neighborhood park is transformed into a carnival.

There was a tiny break between my stomach flu and my regular flu, and Alvin convinced me to run a 5k at the Presidio. It turned out to be the best day ever, including post-race food truck picnic, cocktails, and massages.
The weather has been lovely, and we took advantage of a few windless evenings to enjoy tacos and ice cream on the roof deck.
For the first time ever, we drove out to spend the night at my sister's house to celebrate her birthday.  We spent an afternoon lounging by Lake Natomas, and spent a fair amount of time eating and drinking.
The following weekend we explored the Dogpatch, an up and coming neighborhood where Mattias' business is headquartered.  The City closes the streets in different neighborhoods on select Sundays to allow residents and visitors to walk, bike, or run amuck.
I spent the better part of the last month taking way too many medications and feeling sorry for myself.  While we got through it with adrenaline and team work, each illness took an emotional toll.  Most days, our time with the boys was our biggest source of joy and positivity.  Rather than draining us (which they can, trust me), they lifted us up. I hope in watching us struggle this last month, the boys learn that life continues (and can be enjoyed!), even through hardship.