Crabby and Croupy

And I want us to remember this why? Because I am convinced that one day we will find the humor in all of this. . . From the first infectious round of gastro that sent the entire family and babysitters running to the bathroom (and mommy and daddy back sick from their first weekend away); to now- 3 for 3 little ones sick with croup. It started with Caden late Friday night into early Saturday morning, when we made Caden's 1st ever ER visit. He was diagnosed with croup and bilateral ear infections. The doctor gave him oral steroids and a dose of antibiotics. We logged in 3 hours in the ER between the ungodly hours of 3-6 am. Just a few short hours later, at 8:45 PM, Michaela awoke with a barky, croup-like cough and difficulty breathing. With only 15 minutes until KidsDoc closed, I called in hoping for a break- no such luck. Prior to heading out to the ER for a second round, I called the hospital and spoke with the on-call doc. It was my lucky day! Jacquline prescibed oral steroids for Michaela and Casey was able to fill them at the 24 hour pharmacy. Yea! We followed up with the kids' PMD, Dr. Wilkinson this morning (after leaving her yet another message asking her to squeeze us in- we just saw her last week). Anyways, Caden and Mick ended up with IM injections of decadron, the PO doses were too small and the doctor was concerned about the effectiveness (PO vs IM). Austin checked out fine, no cough, no ear infections, just a drippy nose- though happy as a clam. Then came tonight. Thank God Dr. Wilkinson wrote for an emergency supply of decadron tablets- a stronger strength than the liquid Caden and Mick received. Daddy left to fill the prescription at 15 till 11pm and returned shortly thereafter. Grammie quickly dosed up Austy Bear and here we are. We spent part of the evening outside in the cold air and in the bathroom doing steam showers. Caden and Mick are now sound asleep in their cribs, Riley and Casey in the master, Grammie and Austy in Riley's bed  . . . and me off to bed- a good night sleep can only be found in books I'm afraid.