I took the girls to get their flu shots the other day. The build up was almost more than little Meg could manage. She whimpered a bit, then full on gave in to hysterics as we were driving to the doctor's office. The older girls tried their best to console her by letting her know that we always get ice cream after flu shots - after any shot, actually.
Each time the girls reminded Meg about the ice cream, she'd hesitate just long enough to catch a breath that could produce a wail loud enough to frighten all the other kids in the waiting room. As all the girls were receiving their shots, I realized there is hope for Meg as Brita, who created a scene beyond imagination at age four, stoically stood next to me as her shot was administered. That will be Meg in a few years. She just needs a chance to grow up a bit. Of course, neither Meg or Brita will ever fare as well on flu-shot day without the stabilizing force of Leah, who ALWAYS goes first in order to provide an example.
So there we sat at the BYU Creamery, the girls each sporting a pink and purple camoflauged-patterned bandaid, celebrating our flu-shot success. Then I noticed a flash of some kind of recognition register with Meg, which turned into her thoughtful look for a minute or so. Then she blurted out at me, "Mom, why did you get ice cream? YOU didn't get a flu shot!"
Meg wasn't satisfied with any of my explanations. So I just had to settle on the explanation of "tradition" and leave it at that. It may not mean much to her now, but some day she'll understand.
1 comment:
I enjoyed your description of your flu shots because ours was an adventure as well.While in the waiting room we heard some kids screaming. Both of my kids smugly looked at me and commented on how the kid was screaming and not being very brave. I had told them as well, we'd get ice cream afterwards, and to be very brave. Sam bravely went first. He didn't cry... and put on a very brave face. BUT Katelyn started pacing like a caged tiger and wailing during SAM'S shot. I literally had to give the baby to my 7 year old to hold while I caught her, pulled her pants down and basically lay on top of her while she screamed her head off and (I'm embarrassed to admit) tried to bite me while she got her flu shot. It was not a good moment for any of us. I think we scared every kid in that entire office. Then she cried because she was sorry she wasn't brave and could she still get an ice cream? And no, I didn't get my flu shot that day... but I EARNED my ice cream.
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