Just some thoughts about gratitude

I've been reading a lot of blogs lately, and especially Musings of a Highly Trained Monkey (did that work? I'm new to this linking thing). Its a blog about working in the ER, and it has a lot of insights about different kinds of people who present themselves to the ER. Around here, ER bashing is a spectator sport. The local hospital is infamous for poor service, overpriced doctors, and sending people home with inappropriate medications. In fact, there's a lot of bashing of other people and complaining and whining that seems to go on here and there in places I've kind given up visiting because now that I have Autism Hub blogs to read, and there is a LOT less negativity there. But anyway, on to the random thoughts...

I will never forget the people who came to take care of my Joey when he had the croup and was turning blue. Those were incredible, amazing people. I hope they aren't too surprised when I call and ask if Joey can come see the ambulance station this summer, and thank them personally. They hopped right in, made him feel comfortable, let him know everything was going to be just fine, so that for Joey, it was just a fun adventure by the time we got to the ER. The ER nurse was hilarious. He knew a freaking-out-parent when he saw one. Even the nurse who was changing sheets stopped to talk to Joey and try to find cartoons for him on the TV. These people took a situation that was potentially terrifying for my child, and made it into something that included laughter, smiles, and new friends. They made a situation that was terribly stressful on us and made it a walk in the park. I have no idea if they thought I was some stupid person calling 911 over croup. They seemed to be more interested in the fact that they had a child in their care, and to make that child comfortable. We are forever grateful.

On that note, I'd also like to thank the lady in the grocery store the other day who was trying very hard to get Joey to talk with her. He wasn't feeling that great, so he was echoing the questions instead of answering them, yet she remained pleasant and undeterred. She didn't ask, she didn't frown, and she didn't treat him like an idiot or a spoiled brat. She took him as he was, and when his own words failed him, she provided some, without being annoying.

I'd like to thank the bongo drummer at our church who this last Saturday let Joey get up and actually play the drum with the band while they were performing. You could see that Joey thought this was the coolest moment ever. This person has started bringing kazoos to Saturday servicce for the kids. Joey now has two. He plays them all the time (and so does Andy, when he gets hold of one.)

I'd also like to thank the lady who works for Enterprise at our local body shop, who called to get an appropriate vehicle for us and made sure it was waiting for us when we arrived on Tuesday, knowing I had two sick little guys I had to bring with me. I just transferred the carseats and we were on our way. In that vein, I'd like to thank the police officer and the lady that rearended us for being so polite and making a bit of fuss over my boys in making sure they were OK, and telling me how handsome they are. I know how hard it can be to stay nice when you're having a hard day.

And I'd like to thank all the folks who have been leaving me comments here. Sometimes it is just nice to know you're not alone out here.