The Cold.

Life around here has been lazy and fussy this week. All three of us have been battling a nasty headcold, and there's not much energy left to do other things. (Nathaniel seems to have found the energy to cut two more teeth, which means that he has not been a happy camper.) We've taken a few sunshiney walks, but even more long naps! We've gone through two almost-full boxes of kleenex (so far!), an entire pitcher of orange juice, and countless frozen, fruity smoothies. We've heated up the already-too-warm house with steamy showers, and we haven't had a really good night's rest in days.
But, despite the pounding pressure radiating from my sinuses, I've had a good few days. They haven't been crazy or memorable, but they've been real. And, sometimes reality is what we need, even when it comes in the form of snot and 2 AM crying. Motherhood isn't just about the smell of a new baby or the pride of a little one's accomplishments; it's about real life. And, real life involves scrapes and bruises and headcolds. They're not the memorable "ups", but they're there. And, they're not all that bad. We've gotten loads of cuddle time and hugs this week that I wouldn't trade for the world. And, those big, wet, open-mouthed kisses? Pure bliss! (Even when accompanied by a little snot!)
The weather has been heavenly--sunshine and 70 degrees with a slight breeze blowing through the lush, green canopy that enveloped our house overnight. And, when I'm awake at 5 AM because my nose is too stuffy and the sheets are too confining, there is nothing better than a cool breeze through an open window and the sound of the birds awakening. Sometimes I forget what it feels like to wake up on my own, so it's nice to remember--even when it's because I'm feeling cruddy. And, although I love waking up to that toothy grin, it's so nice to watch him sleeping cuddled up against me. And, when he giggles in his sleep? Oh, my heart could just burst!
So, while I'm chugging water and popping vitamin C capsules, I have to admit that this cold hasn't really been the worst thing in the world. (Don't tell my husband; I'm still working on convincing him that it is!) Trust me, we could all do without it, and I'm eagerly awaiting the day that I don't fill an entire wastebasket with tissues, but we're okay. We're chugging along, staying close to home, and cuddling extra. Doesn't get any better than that....well, minus the snot, but I'll take what I can get!