How I stopped being pushed around by my children's illnesses

1. When I used to panic every time my child got a fever

I was a stay-at-home mom until my youngest was in third grade, but when my three children would get sick one after another and have to stay home from school,

"I'm glad I'm not working. But what if I were working? When will I ever be able to go back?"

I would feel so anxious.

It always seemed like the days they stayed home were the days I had lunch plans with friends.

"Why does it always happen at this time!?" I would feel so sad.

The sadness of having to text a friend to cancel was just overwhelming.

2. Illness comes suddenly

No matter how careful you are, you can't prevent it.

Nutritional balance, sleep hours, clothes suited for the temperature...

Even if you have everything in order, there are times when it just happens.

It's something that can't be covered by a parent's efforts.

3. I switched my mindset to 'I'll take a break today too'

When they were infants and toddlers, they would be cranky when they had a fever, and I didn't know what to do, so I would get all flustered.

But once they reached elementary school age, if I just let them lounge in bed, they would sometimes fall asleep before I knew it.

Sometimes they would suddenly wake up, wander around the room, and say strange things, though.

When the children were sleeping, I started to sleep or rest right next to them.

Since I had to be at home, I would clean around the kitchen.

I would polish places I don't usually clean.

4. It wasn't my schedule that was pushing me around, it was my feelings

Going to the hospital. Resting at home. Nursing them.

The facts haven't changed, but I imagine stopping the acceleration and shifting into neutral or park.

I don't struggle in vain.

"Today is a day to stay home!"

My way of accepting it has changed.

5. Days that don't go as planned aren't so bad either

Back then, I would be surprised by a sudden fever, exhausted by the wait at the hospital, and worn out even though I had just been sitting there.

Now, I always bring a book and a water bottle to the hospital so I can wait slowly and calmly.

I can read through it faster than I can at home!

This is because my children have grown up, and they can read and wait quietly themselves.

Actually, I had the day off from my part-time job today and was wondering what to do, but I hadn't thought of anything, so maybe this was for the best.

Rubbing my cheek against my child's and taking a nap together was also a very happy time.