Stitches Out

Ridge's stitches came out today. His head has healed nicely and barring another blow to the wounded area within the next week, it should be fine. I brought all the kids with me to the appointment so they could get their flu shots. And how did I make the trip go smoothly? With a good behavior bribe: a trip to the DI to get toys afterwards. Laine cried forever this morning when we were talking about going to the doctor for a shot and then only winced when the actual shot was administered, didn't make a peep. The boys let out a little "ouch" but that was it. And Sommer was happy in the Baby Bjorn so mom was happy too.

Last week I called to set up the appointment for Ridge's stitches to come out and then asked if I could also do my flu shots during the same visit. I was told that "flu shots are only given by appointment on Wednesdays and Thursdays." So I asked if the stitches could just come out a day later but was advised against it. I had already told her when the stitches went in so she wouldn't let me change. I was then told that I could call on the morning of the appointment and ask if there would be time for my kids to have shots when I was there. I guess I could have argued or begged, but I didn't. I just said "okay, thanks" and hung up the phone. At the time I was sitting on the floor in Laine's room, holding Sommer. I got tears in my eyes and looked up and said, "can't I just get a little help?" 5 minutes later the same lady called me back and asked, "what are the names of your other children? I'll go ahead and schedule you for those shots since you are coming in anyway." I thanked her again, hung up the phone and really cried. Laine danced over and gave me a hug. I hadn't said a real prayer, but I was heard anyway.