This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.
Last month, I caught my daughter’s virus. It started with a headache that traveled from the back of my neck and quickly spread through my whole body.
The headaches and body aches were followed by a sore throat and then a cough.
But, like most moms, I kept plugging along, since dinner needed to be cooked and kids needed to be taken to practices and work needed to get done.
Why is it so hard for moms to slow down and take a sick day?
Wait. I really don’t want to have to answer that….
Last week, I knew my illness had taken a turn for the worst, but it wasn’t until Thursday, when I had a fever over 101, that I allowed myself to admit that I needed to see a doctor. I called first thing Friday morning, and got the diagnosis that I had been suspecting: pneumonia.
With a slew of moms online watching out for my health, I determined to do for ME what I would be doing for my kids:
- plenty of rest (even if it means directing the kids from my perch on the couch)
- lots and lots of fluids (Coke Zero makes my throat feel SO good. It’s still a liquid, right?)
- early bed time (such a hard one for me!)
- a day off (or two or three) to regain strength
- reminder – some things can wait (that includes laundry and vacuuming….and writing that blog post)
- accept help (the kids might just enjoy playing doctor to Mommy)
- do something enjoyable (like read a book or play a game. Being sick doesn’t have to be 100% miserable!)
How do you manage Mommy sick days?
Barb says
As a mom of 5 kids, I often feel like “I’m not allowed” to be sick. I also don’t have extra help besides my dh to step in. However, I’ve gotten better about changing the rhythm of my day when I’m sick, and lowering my expectations. I also take lots of echinacea (I never spell that right!). On the rare occasion that I’m really sick and can’t get myself out of bed, I do ask my dh to stay home.
Susie's Homemade says
I have learned the hard way that if I don’t at least take an hour to rest when I am feeling sick, bad things happen and no one gets taken care of. So, I take it!
Jolene says
I’m glad you are feeling better. Are you talking about occasional guest blog to help host the Tackle it Tuesday?
Lolli says
Yes! If you have a project that you’re tackling, feel free to send me some ideas (or a post) and I can add it to our next Tackle It Tuesday. 🙂 The link to my email is right up there by “About Lolli.”