Sleepover

A had school on Monday but the remainder of the week off for teacher conferences and the Thanksgiving holiday. So, long ago we had planned for her to go spend two nights with my parents, with the joint goals of some special time for the three of them and solving our childcare needs while Ben and I worked, and E went to preschool, on Tuesday and Wednesday. Well, you know what they say about the best laid plans . . .

This morning A awoke with a fever and sore throat. My mom was already at our house to pick her up, and graciously agreed to take E instead, so that she could get him away from the germs and give him some special attention while we tended to A. Good thing, because a trip to the doctor confirmed a case of strep throat, highly contagious and just an all-around bummer, ugh!

Tylenol and popsicles have helped, but A's been sleeping a lot and pretty miserable, and her fever still burns hot every time the meds wear off. We're hopeful that the antibiotics will work their magic soon!

Anyway, this picture is Granny and E headed out to her car to begin their special sleepover visit (which has since been extended to a 2-night sleepover visit, knowing that A won't be noncontagious until late on Wednesday.) E was so proud to carry his own bag! We've spoken to E on the phone and it's obvious that he's having a fabulous time, hanging out with Granny & Grandad, and getting to be the center of attention. I think it is really special for him to have that "only child" time. Meanwhile, at our house, it feels quiet and strange. A occasionally goes on playdates and sleepovers independently, so we're sort of accustomed to the occasional trio of Ben, E, and myself. We're not at all accustomed to just having A here - in fact, I don't think that has happened since E was born 3.5 years ago! We miss him. But we're also grateful that we're not having to divide our attention between a sick child and a healthy one, and that we can hopefully keep him healthy.