We had to postpone Stella's Birthday

We were all looking forward to somebody's 4th birthday...and then...vomit got in the way. Well, vomit, and diarrhea, and sickness. And lots of it. In fact, all three kids were sick. At.the.same.time! I often wondered what would happen if all three were throwing up at the same time. Something that would put my mom skills to the test. And would I pass? Would there be vomit all over my house? How does one "manage" all the outflows and limp bodies, I would wonder.

Well, I have lived it. I survived. And our house stunk for a few days. Honestly, it might still stink and I just don't know because I am used to it. Floors were fine, but beds were made and washed and remade and washed many, many times. (To our future home buyers: no one threw up on our carpets, promise!) I won't get into the details, because they were really gross. All I can say is poor Stella. She got it the worst.

But, I will say that having all three sick in that way, at once is much better (dare I say "easier" too) than stringing it over weeks. There was no worry of keeping sick ones away from well ones. Or making food for one while denying others because they can't even hold down water. It was something that I dreaded, but now I have survived it. And, yes, I realize I am not the only one with sick kids..blah, blah, blah... But when you are not a supermom, you never know if these events are going to break you.

So having shared that, you can understand why Stella's birthday was postponed and where I have been all week. Despite her feeling so bad, she insisted on opening presents that night. I don't know why- she didn't really enjoy it.

Woo hoo! Presents Time!

Grrreeeaaat...a Sttraaaawberrrry Shoooorrtcaaaake dooollll...juuuussst whhhaat Iiiii wwaaantted...thhaannkssss.

Yes, she is really making that face of pure disgust after opening a box full of headbands and hairclips. (that sick)

Isn't this the saddest face you have ever seen. She looks like a hostage.

Nick couldn't keep up.

A quick wardrobe change after an "accident" in her pants (yes, that sick).

This is what I got when I asked her to give me a smile. I was sorry I put her through the trouble!


And finally...


Happy 4th birthday, my dear, Stella!
We'll do this right when everyone is better.
--Kate