Thursday, October 29, 2009

So glad we could have this time together

It's OVER. I did my expectant mother duty and got my flu shots today. Now my mother, aunt and nurse-friends can quit worrying that I will drop dead on the street. I can quit trying to care about germs, too.

Not that this peace didn't come at a price. I went to the mass flu clinic at the Jones Center today. Along with about 6,000 of my neighbors. I do not exaggerate. I did a little crowd-math while I was waiting, and I think I was around the 1,800-2,000 mark, with way more behind me than in front of me. I waited in line for 2 hours to get my shots, which took 30 seconds. During this time, I was afforded the opportunity to stand near lots of "interesting" people, who I have come to see as walking blog fodder.

There was the girl behind me who was furious that pregnant women didn't have a VIP line and that made racist statements the entire time, which were apparently acceptable because she "has a Hispanic for a boyfriend." There was the man who belched every 5 minutes, and the mother who frequently told her children not to dare act like the other children in line "whose parents obviously don't care if they behave or not." There were plenty of such children, but I had more than my usual amount of sympathy for the parents, as their children were being forced to wait in a long line--not for a carnival ride or candy, but to get a SHOT. Let 'em run around a little if it helps.

The wonderful workers were very efficient. They plopped me down and descended on either side. The seasonal shot wasn't too bad, but the H1N1 shot HURT. And it STILL hurts. Yes, I am whiny. It's my prerogative. At least I didn't scream and cry like most of the other recipients. Granted, they were pre-schoolers, but whatever. Pain is pain.

So it's over. I have whatever is in a flu shot (eggs? swine saliva?) floating around in my system, Scooby Doo Halloween band-aids on both arms, and a new appreciation for people who stand in line with their mouths shut.

6 comments:

Unknown said...

I love it! You are too funny... I also RARELY get sick. I might get a cold everyother year, if that often. I have had the flu once, and it was 3 days after I got a flu shot that I became ill. The only time I ever got a flu shot, btw. Worst week of my life! I had strep to boot, so I was sicky sicky. I too, am not a germaphobe... I just try to stay clean and figure what doesnt kill you makes you stronger ;oP

Patty said...

I'm proud of you! Now I can breath a sigh of relief! (Except that I haven't gotten mine yet!) I think I would have gone crazy standing in line that long with annoying people. I'm a little suprised that you kept your mouth shut! I guess you just can't control yourself around disloyal Hog fans!

Anonymous said...

I am so glad you finally were able to get the shots. Or should I say they finally arrived here! I just wanted you and my new granchild (it Will be a Girl)(unless it's another white headed E)to safe and sound. Love ya! Mom

Anonymous said...

I rest my case.

Dee said...

Hey. Saw your comment on Travis' blog. I love Tonic-Sol-Fa. They sing every year at a festival where I live. Just wanted to let you know that you have good taste!

LindaM said...

Seriously, I just knew you would drop dead of the H1N1 while you were cooking! You'd be more likely to drop dead from the shock of cooking than the H1N1! Glad it is over for you- Aunt Linda