the girl is back

Oh my.  Ruby has been sick for almost a week but I'm happy to report that she woke up today with her  signature personality in tact.  I was beginning to get worried.... 

It all started last Tuesday at supper time when I picked her up and noticed she was basically on fire.  She had a fever of 39 degrees and no appetite.  We were at a BBQ the weekend before and the parents of another sick kid didn't realize he was sick..... with HFMD.  (yuck..... hand foot and mouth disease.  sounds terrible and it is!)

Her worst day was Wednesday (and I hope she doesn't get mad at me for this some day in the future), but here's a shot of poor Ruby feeling the worst she has ever felt in her short life.  

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She was absolutely miserable and didn't know how to express it.  It broke my heart to see her in so much agony.  She had a fever and sores in her mouth that made it difficult to eat... (so she didn't ..... for days.... ).  How would I have felt if she needed to be hospitalized or have an operation... or if she was injured?  I hope I never have to find out.  

It's become clear to me over the past few months that Ryan and I are so fortunate to have been blessed with two healthy children.  So many parents have to face challenges that, thank goodness, we won't have to face.  My heart goes out to moms and dads who have kids with special needs.  It's hard enough being a parent to a 'normal' child.  (forgive my ignorance .... I'm tired and can't think of a better word).  

Anyway..... that's enough about that.  I'm glad she's getting better.  If you can believe it, she has never been sick before in her life.  She had a fever once... that lasted for 24 hours, but that's the extent of  it.  I hope she doesn't get sick again for a long, long, long time.  But... she's starting gymnastics in a few weeks so she'll be mingling with other kids....  It's bound to happen again and I can't stop it.  I guess I better get used to being helpless with regards to my kids cuz I have a whole lotta years to get used to it. 

I love you Ruby.  I'm so glad you're back.  :)