Day 7 -

As a stay at home mom with three kids I have figured out how to adapt everything I used to do without kids to doing it with 3 little ones in tow.  Grocery shopping, and even taking all three kids and two dogs to the vet.  There isn't much I, much like any mom, hasn't figured out how to do while juggling the kids.  I find the one thing I still struggle with is my doctor appointments. Trying to focus on the doctor, get blood drawn, get vaccines, etc.  is very difficult with the kids.  I try to schedule them around Matt's schedule, however that doesn't always work out.  Sometimes family is here to help, but sometimes I am stuck balancing on my own. Prior to all the kids being mobile, I used carseats, baby bjorns, and even strollers.  However, that time is gone and I have kids running in all different directions.  I should say that the kids are very well behaved, however they are curious and waiting long amounts of times drives them (and me) bonkers.

Bringing the kids really isn't a problem for me, I cope but struggle in keeping the kids occupied and quiet during the appointment.   But I have discovered that there are 3 different types of nurses or medical providers in general.  1st there is the nurse that is aggravated and annoyed that I have brought the kids to the appointment.  One time I was even snidely told that they knew  a babysitter/day care I could call, so next time I could come to the appointment by myself.  It ticked me off, but also made me pretty self conscious. The kids weren't misbehaving, just asking some questions.   Seriously, I have enough going on without you making it seem I am the biggest inconvenience of your day.  Second, there are the nurses/staff that could care either way.  They watch and deal with the little interruptions and questions.  They aren't aggravated, but aren't really engaged either. Third, there is the rock star nurse/staff.  I had one of these today.   They are talking to the kids, letting them help, blowing balloon gloves, giving band aids, and letting them see and ask about everything. Those individuals are amazing and I can't thank them enough for their kindness in an otherwise stressful environment.  It made getting a fasting blood draw, flu shot, and physical a little more enjoyable and less stressful.  This mom appreciated it greatly, and the kids enjoyed this nurse too.

To you rock stars out there keep up the great work, you may not get the thanks or appreciation you deserve verbally or at all, however know you are making a huge difference in the lives of your patients.