Ain’t No Such Thing…
Have I written this post before? I’m too sick to remember.
Thanks to a persistent fever and a painfully clogged milk duct, I’ve spent the bulk of this week on my couch. As I was lying there on Wednesday, holding Lil Mil hostage between my thighs (and listening to her laugh hysterically as she leaned back against one leg and banged wildly on the other), I discovered yet another way that writing and mothering are similar. In neither case does a fever of 101.9 give you the freedom to crawl into bed and pull the covers over your head.
Sure you can, but your baby – whether human or literary – will be neglected for as long as you’re under there. Back when I went to an office every day, sick days had some silver lining: yes, my body had to do battle with whatever was ailing me, but my mind got a break. A brief reprieve from the incessant inner monologue of tasks not-yet-complete. I was sick. If there was something that had to get done that day, someone else would have to do it.
Mommies and writers don’t get to turn their brains off. Even if someone else is watching your baby while you’re sick (a luxury I didn’t have), you’re still the mommy. There is still a little person that needs your attention. Or your boob. And as for your literary baby, well, its cries aren’t muffled by a closed door or a thick comforter. In fact, they only get louder as the room gets quieter and darker.
So, farewell sick day. You were fun while you lasted.
A@Keep Calm And Have A Cupcake
Friday, 24 September, 2010 at 8:07Lauren! I know you wrote this awhile ago, but I’ve been sick for a week for the first time since O was born and man, these words are so true. Your phrase “Ain’t no such thing” has been rolling around in my head all week. I had to come back and read it again. I miss your posting. Hope you’re well!
Amy
Tuesday, 3 August, 2010 at 9:31Hope you are feeling better now, Lauren!
Missy
Sunday, 25 July, 2010 at 7:28Isn’t that the truth! Kind of stinks… The moment I realized that I would never, ever have a real break again (because like you said, even if someone else has the kids, you’re still the mom, always the mom), I was a bit overwhelmed with emotion. I hadn’t ever related that feeling to writing before, but you’re right – I think about what I’m working on, even when I’m taking a break, so I never fully shut down the process. Ugh. Good problems to have, I guess, but still, ugh.
I hope you’re on the mend!
Hope Kidd
Saturday, 24 July, 2010 at 8:22I’m so sorry. Mastitis is THE WORST!!!! It’s so painful and miserable. I hope you’re over it soon.
Rudri
Friday, 23 July, 2010 at 17:50Hope you feel better. Sending some healthy vibes your way.
You are going to Blog Her – I so wished I knew about this sooner, but found out too late… Have a great time! I know I will be missing out on some great blogger bonding (maybe next year….).
Corinne
Friday, 23 July, 2010 at 10:26So very true.
Hope you’re feeling better!! Just noticed your button – BlogHer! Yay! Hope to run into you