Croup. I hate croup. I mean, I really…really….really hate croup. This is the second time this year our little one has had it — but this time was a little different. For those of you that haven’t experienced this gem — here is an overview from the Mayo Clinic. Basically, it presents itself as a barking cough, much like a barking seal (this is a very common definition). For our son, the cough is not the issue. Typically, it is one or two quick barks around 4 AM or 5 AM. The gasping for breath that typically follows is the most frightening part of croup.

Saturday, 5AM: Couple seal barks and light wheezing, we head to the bathroom to steam the room and take him out into cool air. All is okay. Call the doctor — they give us some advice, but not much we can do, so just keep an eye on him and call back or go to the ER if things worsen (this is our second time around the block). All day: fine, happy, running around.

Sunday, 4AM: Couple quick barks and hardcore wheezing. This is the most upsetting part of croup: seeing our son gasping for breath with a scared look of wonderment on his face asking “why is this happening?” Steam shower and cool air not working. Off to the ER. Steroid and breathing treatment and we are on our way back home.

Sunday 8AM: Wifey not doing well.

Sunday 2PM: Back at the ER for the Wifey with kiddo doing fine.

Part 2 is next.