Parenting with Cf

[mamaScarlett]

Yesterday I was getting out of my car and heading into my house after a long day of errands with a 4 month old and a 4 yr old. I did my first neb of the p.m. treatment in the car to save a few minutes. As I'm walking into the house I almost had an out of body like experience, where you see yourself in a snapshot...<br>Here I am, nebulizer in my mouth, baby on one hip, diaper bag on one shoulder, 3 bags of groceries on the other shoulder, prescription bag in one hand, prodding the 4 yr old into the house.<br>We're just amazing. We manage to do it all on the good days, and find a way to do the essentials during the tough times. Other moms complain about the most trivial, petty things-which I don't fault, bc I do that too sometimes. And if I were in their shoes I'd probably do the same.<br>We learn how to prioritize earlier in life than others do. We learn what really matters earlier in life. I appreciate my children. I have fun with them. I love being spontaneous with them. I love getting down and dirty and playing with them. I know this is because I value all those little things more. Those little things are really the big things.<br>Cf totally and completely sucks. But if one good thing can come into my life because of it, its the way I parent my kids and how much more I value life with them bc of it. Thats a pretty great thing to instill into your children. Thats a remarkable gift to pass on.<br>So these were some positive thoughts I had that I wanted to share. I'm not saying its peaches and cream. I'm not saying I'm grateful for my cf. I'm not saying I feel like wonder power mom each day.<br>I'm just saying its amazing what you can do when you have to. And living with Cf gives you some powerful gifts to pass on to your children.<br>I hope you other parents with Cf will chime in to share how you cope, how you do it all, how you manage to do the essentials, the things that inspire you to keep going...I'm going to come back and read this for the 300 other days of the year that I feel like I can't keep going!<br>

 

[mamaScarlett]

Yesterday I was getting out of my car and heading into my house after a long day of errands with a 4 month old and a 4 yr old. I did my first neb of the p.m. treatment in the car to save a few minutes. As I'm walking into the house I almost had an out of body like experience, where you see yourself in a snapshot...<br>Here I am, nebulizer in my mouth, baby on one hip, diaper bag on one shoulder, 3 bags of groceries on the other shoulder, prescription bag in one hand, prodding the 4 yr old into the house.<br>We're just amazing. We manage to do it all on the good days, and find a way to do the essentials during the tough times. Other moms complain about the most trivial, petty things-which I don't fault, bc I do that too sometimes. And if I were in their shoes I'd probably do the same.<br>We learn how to prioritize earlier in life than others do. We learn what really matters earlier in life. I appreciate my children. I have fun with them. I love being spontaneous with them. I love getting down and dirty and playing with them. I know this is because I value all those little things more. Those little things are really the big things.<br>Cf totally and completely sucks. But if one good thing can come into my life because of it, its the way I parent my kids and how much more I value life with them bc of it. Thats a pretty great thing to instill into your children. Thats a remarkable gift to pass on.<br>So these were some positive thoughts I had that I wanted to share. I'm not saying its peaches and cream. I'm not saying I'm grateful for my cf. I'm not saying I feel like wonder power mom each day.<br>I'm just saying its amazing what you can do when you have to. And living with Cf gives you some powerful gifts to pass on to your children.<br>I hope you other parents with Cf will chime in to share how you cope, how you do it all, how you manage to do the essentials, the things that inspire you to keep going...I'm going to come back and read this for the 300 other days of the year that I feel like I can't keep going!<br>

 

[mamaScarlett]

Yesterday I was getting out of my car and heading into my house after a long day of errands with a 4 month old and a 4 yr old. I did my first neb of the p.m. treatment in the car to save a few minutes. As I'm walking into the house I almost had an out of body like experience, where you see yourself in a snapshot...<br>Here I am, nebulizer in my mouth, baby on one hip, diaper bag on one shoulder, 3 bags of groceries on the other shoulder, prescription bag in one hand, prodding the 4 yr old into the house.<br>We're just amazing. We manage to do it all on the good days, and find a way to do the essentials during the tough times. Other moms complain about the most trivial, petty things-which I don't fault, bc I do that too sometimes. And if I were in their shoes I'd probably do the same.<br>We learn how to prioritize earlier in life than others do. We learn what really matters earlier in life. I appreciate my children. I have fun with them. I love being spontaneous with them. I love getting down and dirty and playing with them. I know this is because I value all those little things more. Those little things are really the big things.<br>Cf totally and completely sucks. But if one good thing can come into my life because of it, its the way I parent my kids and how much more I value life with them bc of it. Thats a pretty great thing to instill into your children. Thats a remarkable gift to pass on.<br>So these were some positive thoughts I had that I wanted to share. I'm not saying its peaches and cream. I'm not saying I'm grateful for my cf. I'm not saying I feel like wonder power mom each day.<br>I'm just saying its amazing what you can do when you have to. And living with Cf gives you some powerful gifts to pass on to your children.<br>I hope you other parents with Cf will chime in to share how you cope, how you do it all, how you manage to do the essentials, the things that inspire you to keep going...I'm going to come back and read this for the 300 other days of the year that I feel like I can't keep going!<br>

 

[mamerth]

There are many days that I wonder how I fit it all in... some days I don't even come close. I agree we do give our kids a unique gift. My son is compassionate beyond his years. Many times he says things regarding my illness that warms my heart... he is able to be honorable and respectful to other people with illnesses.

How do I cope?? Some days I barely cope. We eat soup from a can, eat sandwiches twice a day and live in our pajamas. Other days when I am feeling well, I try to use my crockpot as much as I can... soups, entrees and such. I have taught my son how to do the basic household tasks. I learn to say NO. I try not to take on too much and leave plenty of time for my family and my treatment. I get a lot of flack for it but do my best to ignore it. We keep our life very simple... not a lot of parties, playdates. We spend lots of time at home just being together... it also keeps me away from germs.

Another way I cope is to take my guys with me to my clinic appointments... they then know how I should be caring for myself and they can support me. My guys are my cheerleaders... they want me around for a long time.

Life as a mom with CF is tough but so worth it.... being a mom gives me a little taste of being "normal".

 

[mamerth]

There are many days that I wonder how I fit it all in... some days I don't even come close. I agree we do give our kids a unique gift. My son is compassionate beyond his years. Many times he says things regarding my illness that warms my heart... he is able to be honorable and respectful to other people with illnesses.

How do I cope?? Some days I barely cope. We eat soup from a can, eat sandwiches twice a day and live in our pajamas. Other days when I am feeling well, I try to use my crockpot as much as I can... soups, entrees and such. I have taught my son how to do the basic household tasks. I learn to say NO. I try not to take on too much and leave plenty of time for my family and my treatment. I get a lot of flack for it but do my best to ignore it. We keep our life very simple... not a lot of parties, playdates. We spend lots of time at home just being together... it also keeps me away from germs.

Another way I cope is to take my guys with me to my clinic appointments... they then know how I should be caring for myself and they can support me. My guys are my cheerleaders... they want me around for a long time.

Life as a mom with CF is tough but so worth it.... being a mom gives me a little taste of being "normal".

 

[mamerth]

There are many days that I wonder how I fit it all in... some days I don't even come close. I agree we do give our kids a unique gift. My son is compassionate beyond his years. Many times he says things regarding my illness that warms my heart... he is able to be honorable and respectful to other people with illnesses.
<br />
<br />How do I cope?? Some days I barely cope. We eat soup from a can, eat sandwiches twice a day and live in our pajamas. Other days when I am feeling well, I try to use my crockpot as much as I can... soups, entrees and such. I have taught my son how to do the basic household tasks. I learn to say NO. I try not to take on too much and leave plenty of time for my family and my treatment. I get a lot of flack for it but do my best to ignore it. We keep our life very simple... not a lot of parties, playdates. We spend lots of time at home just being together... it also keeps me away from germs.
<br />
<br />Another way I cope is to take my guys with me to my clinic appointments... they then know how I should be caring for myself and they can support me. My guys are my cheerleaders... they want me around for a long time.
<br />
<br />Life as a mom with CF is tough but so worth it.... being a mom gives me a little taste of being "normal".

 

[Ratatosk]

<img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> On a similar note DH's cousin (no cf -- SAHM with 1 child) was complaining on FB about being awakened the other morning at 4:30 by her child and this summer she had to take frequent naps because she was just so tired taking her to swimming lessons & the library, had mommy brain... And I thought heck -- walk in some of our shoes lady! <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">   Granted it's MUCH different for me as I'm a parent of a child wcf, but I am downright proud at times at what we manage to accomplish daily -- treatments, schoolwork, errands....

 

[Ratatosk]

<img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> On a similar note DH's cousin (no cf -- SAHM with 1 child) was complaining on FB about being awakened the other morning at 4:30 by her child and this summer she had to take frequent naps because she was just so tired taking her to swimming lessons & the library, had mommy brain... And I thought heck -- walk in some of our shoes lady! <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> Granted it's MUCH different for me as I'm a parent of a child wcf, but I am downright proud at times at what we manage to accomplish daily -- treatments, schoolwork, errands....

 

[Ratatosk]

<img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> <BR><BR>On a similar note DH's cousin (no cf -- SAHM with 1 child) was complaining on FB about being awakened the other morning at 4:30 by her child and this summer she had to take frequent naps because she was just so tired taking her to swimming lessons & the library, had mommy brain... And I thought heck -- walk in some of our shoes lady! <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> Granted it's MUCH different for me as I'm a parent of a child wcf, but I am downright proud at times at what we manage to accomplish daily -- treatments, schoolwork, errands....

 

[beleache]

Amen !!  I totally agree with you ..<div><br></div><div>  I guess if i've learned anything, it's not to sweat the small stuff & enjoy each & every day !! </div><div><br></div><div> I am grateful beyond words that I have seen my youngest graduate H.S. ( he started college this year & when I got dxd I didnt think I would see this day) , have 3 grandchildren &will turning 60 this year !  Ty God !  I have great support from my family & friends & am so grateful for them as well... </div><div><br></div><div>  My one bit of advice would be, if ppl offer to help you in whatever way that may be, dont be shy , accept it graciously .. Taking care of a family is not an easy task when you have CF (even when you dont have cf) so enlist all the help you can  <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"></div><div><br></div><div> <3   joni</div>

 

[beleache]

Amen !! I totally agree with you ..<br>I guess if i've learned anything, it's not to sweat the small stuff & enjoy each & every day !!<br>I am grateful beyond words that I have seen my youngest graduate H.S. ( he started college this year & when I got dxd I didnt think I would see this day) , have 3 grandchildren &will turning 60 this year ! Ty God ! I have great support from my family & friends & am so grateful for them as well...<br> My one bit of advice would be, if ppl offer to help you in whatever way that may be, dont be shy , accept it graciously .. Taking care of a family is not an easy task when you have CF (even when you dont have cf) so enlist all the help you can <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"><br><3 joni

 

[beleache]

Amen !! I totally agree with you ..<br>I guess if i've learned anything, it's not to sweat the small stuff & enjoy each & every day !!<br>I am grateful beyond words that I have seen my youngest graduate H.S. ( he started college this year & when I got dxd I didnt think I would see this day) , have 3 grandchildren &will turning 60 this year ! Ty God ! I have great support from my family & friends & am so grateful for them as well...<br> My one bit of advice would be, if ppl offer to help you in whatever way that may be, dont be shy , accept it graciously .. Taking care of a family is not an easy task when you have CF (even when you dont have cf) so enlist all the help you can <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"><br><3 joni

 

[rubyroselee]

Oh wow, that post just made my day! You are so right - some days I am just so thankful that I made it through the day in one piece and I collapse in my bed. Other days it's just so wonderful to be rolling in the grass with your kids on a beautiful summer evening and realizing how wonderful life really is as a mom with CF. I mean, I never in a million years would have thought I'd be where I am now. And you just made a good point that there are days when we have to multi-task so much, that when we sit back to think about it, it's pretty amazing! So I think we should all give ourselves a pat on the back once in awhile for all that we do...and also realize that we do have a lot of wonderful traits and positive things to pass on to our kids. Amen cyster!

 

[rubyroselee]

Oh wow, that post just made my day! You are so right - some days I am just so thankful that I made it through the day in one piece and I collapse in my bed. Other days it's just so wonderful to be rolling in the grass with your kids on a beautiful summer evening and realizing how wonderful life really is as a mom with CF. I mean, I never in a million years would have thought I'd be where I am now. And you just made a good point that there are days when we have to multi-task so much, that when we sit back to think about it, it's pretty amazing! So I think we should all give ourselves a pat on the back once in awhile for all that we do...and also realize that we do have a lot of wonderful traits and positive things to pass on to our kids. Amen cyster!

 

[rubyroselee]

Oh wow, that post just made my day! You are so right - some days I am just so thankful that I made it through the day in one piece and I collapse in my bed. Other days it's just so wonderful to be rolling in the grass with your kids on a beautiful summer evening and realizing how wonderful life really is as a mom with CF. I mean, I never in a million years would have thought I'd be where I am now. And you just made a good point that there are days when we have to multi-task so much, that when we sit back to think about it, it's pretty amazing! So I think we should all give ourselves a pat on the back once in awhile for all that we do...and also realize that we do have a lot of wonderful traits and positive things to pass on to our kids. Amen cyster!

 

[alluneedislove]

I wish there was a LIKE button for everyone of the posts! Well said by all you CF momma's. It's a hard job taking care of yourself plus your kids, but being with my daughter everyday is the best thing i could ever ask for. She is 2 and already knows about mommy's vest and meds and when mommy needs to do them. Her new thing is every time i'm done with a neb she needs to bring it to the sink. haha cutest thing ever! Some days are very hard, but its those days that you can be super woman and be like "hell yeah" i just did all of that! I love those days! then the days that we don't even get out of our pj's.......they are good to just a different slower paced good! We are pregnant with baby #2 praying that i can keep up with everything and stay healthy. I hope to make just as many memories this time around and be around to see my kids have kids! Cheers to CF momma's

 

[alluneedislove]

I wish there was a LIKE button for everyone of the posts! Well said by all you CF momma's. It's a hard job taking care of yourself plus your kids, but being with my daughter everyday is the best thing i could ever ask for. She is 2 and already knows about mommy's vest and meds and when mommy needs to do them. Her new thing is every time i'm done with a neb she needs to bring it to the sink. haha cutest thing ever! Some days are very hard, but its those days that you can be super woman and be like "hell yeah" i just did all of that! I love those days! then the days that we don't even get out of our pj's.......they are good to just a different slower paced good! We are pregnant with baby #2 praying that i can keep up with everything and stay healthy. I hope to make just as many memories this time around and be around to see my kids have kids! Cheers to CF momma's

 

[alluneedislove]

I wish there was a LIKE button for everyone of the posts! Well said by all you CF momma's. It's a hard job taking care of yourself plus your kids, but being with my daughter everyday is the best thing i could ever ask for. She is 2 and already knows about mommy's vest and meds and when mommy needs to do them. Her new thing is every time i'm done with a neb she needs to bring it to the sink. haha cutest thing ever! Some days are very hard, but its those days that you can be super woman and be like "hell yeah" i just did all of that! I love those days! then the days that we don't even get out of our pj's.......they are good to just a different slower paced good! We are pregnant with baby #2 praying that i can keep up with everything and stay healthy. I hope to make just as many memories this time around and be around to see my kids have kids! Cheers to CF momma's

 

[imported_Momto2]

I think anyone with a difficult situation, who manages to keep a stiff upper lip with an ocassional smile and laugh at the vagaries of life, is doing well. CF is not alone in the hardships it creates. Every day, I do the best I can with the available energy, most days are usually pretty great. I take my hat off to all of those who struggle, and still persarvere in their own private way!

 

[imported_Momto2]

I think anyone with a difficult situation, who manages to keep a stiff upper lip with an ocassional smile and laugh at the vagaries of life, is doing well. CF is not alone in the hardships it creates. Every day, I do the best I can with the available energy, most days are usually pretty great. I take my hat off to all of those who struggle, and still persarvere in their own private way!