When Jess was a newborn, our next-door neighbor couldn’t wait to hold her. As I placed my baby, my first and only child in her arms, she then said, “I have a terrible cold right now…” to which I immediately grabbed Jessie back. What would possess her to be so thoughtless? Where was the common sense? Unfortunately, the damage was done and Jessie had her first cold before the week was out, however, I did learn a valuable lesson to be more discerning.
Several years later, Jessie had a well-check appointment in early January with her doctor. Being that it was cold and flu season, I had Jess wear mittens while in the waiting room. Too many times, Jessie had gotten sick after being at the doctor’s so it seemed a sensible solution. However, when the doctor saw her, he poo-pooed my logic. Jessie was at the stage where she needed the sensory feedback and put everything in her mouth and it made perfect sense to me to have her not touch toys and books that sick children had handled.
There’s nothing wrong with taking precautions when it comes to our health, yet during this current virus crisis, I’m a bit perplexed. I understand the concern but not the panic. We are being inundated with information, you’d think the world was ending. The difference between the last viral scare compared to now is how the media is covering the story. I don’t think people are stopping to process everything they are hearing. When the CDC advised those at high-risk stock up on supplies, the general public took this to include them. People are fighting over bottled water and there’s no toilet paper on the shelves. I’ve even heard that Corona beer sales were down by over 30% due to its name (think about that for a second and question the logic). This prompted me to write the company and tell them they are missing an opportunity. Their commercials should say that their beer is the perfect antidote because there is no healthier place to be than on the beach breathing in the salty air.
Like everyone else, Jessie’s program has been closed for the last two weeks. We are going to take advantage of this time and head to the shore. Sure, the water is cold, but a good dose of salty air will be refreshing! Even better it won’t be crowded.
It probably would be a good time to work on an art project. We have been collecting magazines for paper piecing and there are a few hikes that are calling our name too.
I’m looking forward to this time together. As they say, every crisis is an opportunity. Hopefully, everyone will chill and find a way to stay calm and carry on.
PS- If you can’t find, hand sanitizer or antibacterial wipes, make your own!
Hand sanitizer:
2/3 cup isopropyl rubbing alcohol, 99%
1/3 cup aloe vera gel
optional, 8-10 drops of essential oil, lavender, lemon, or any scent that you prefer.
Mix all ingredients together and store in a bottle
Here is a link, for antibacterial wipes.
Hello,
I would like to say that I am truly inspired by Jess. I hope she keeps her spirits high and continues smiling through life. Please know that your posts have left me feeling touched and I feel motivated to share Jess’s story with the people in my community.
I would also like to leave a message for Jess-
Dear Jess,
I want you to know that you are motivating many women and parents. I wish you all the best. I am sure you are going to do great things in your life.
How nice of you to share.
Jess smiled when I read what you wrote to her and we very much appreciate your kind words.
Thank you,
Mary