Self Care for the Care-Giver

My poor boys have been sick for over two weeks.  And I mean really sick.  It started with Influenza B, then pneumonia and ear infections.  We’ve been to the clinic three times so far.  It’s been fevers, antibiotics, fluids, tissues, and vomit.  I’ve been patient and gentle and loving.  I don’t expect them to do chores or homework or much of anything else.  Just rest and heal.

Let me say…

I’m very, very, very grateful that their bodies are healthy and strong and that they are able to fight these infections.  I don’t know what I’d do if they had something chronic or something that would require hospitalization.  I can’t imagine!

That being said, I’m tired.  I’ve been cooking many, many meals each day, trying to find something that sounds good to their queasy stomachs.  I’ve cleaned up vomit and disinfected door knobs, light switches and keyboards.  I’ve run to the pharmacy and clinic and grocery store more times than I can count.  I’m up early and doting on my boys like they deserve!

Bath-time!

When the boys are settled watching a movie or napping or in bed for the night, I’ve been trying to take really good care of myself.  Because it’s exhausting taking care of them and the house and all of their chores… sigh.

I’ve been taking baths.  Sometimes I’ll run a bath in the middle of the day and just soak for a few minutes.  The other day at one of my many Target runs, I bought a bath-bomb.  It was pink and purple and very fizzy.  When I was draining the tub, I noticed all of the beautiful glitter!  The scent was heavenly and my skin was so silky.  It’s the little things!

During this same lovely bath, I tried a face mask.  Before getting into the bath, I put it on and scared my oldest!  This was a fun treat.  For a total of six dollars, I had a lovely bath, face mask and read a book for an hour.

Prioritizing My Health

I have been working out at the gym by myself and with my trainer.  Even when I’m tired, it feels so good to work out!

Did I mention on the blog that I am working with a nutritionist?  Aimee Gallo from Vibrance Nutrition is amazing!  One of my goals is to continue to get stronger and healthier.  Working out at the gym has not given me all of the results that I need to see.  So I needed to change my eating habits.  Aimee is wonderful!  Please check her out!

Support System

I’ve been chatting with my mom more this week that usual.  I always love talking with my mom, but it seems that when my boys are sick, I need the support and advice that she can offer.

Down Time

I have also spent more time than usual watching YouTube and Netflix.   When the boys don’t need me, I’ve read my novels and watched more screens than normal.  I think I’ve just needed that relaxing time so that I can be more to my kids.  I think about that saying, in order to pour yourself out, your cup needs to be filled.  I’ve been very conscious to be gentle with myself.

I almost forgot!  My favorite way to show myself some love is drinking coffee.  I love coffee so much!  It’s a hug in a mug!  So I’ve been drinking two or three (or four) mugs a day just to be extra loving to myself.

Here are a few ways that I have been doing to take care of myself while taking care of my sick little ones.  What do you do?

Photo by David Mao on Unsplash