A few years ago, before the decision to homeschool was final, a Pediatrician informed me that the Chicken Pox Vaccine was mandatory for public school in Maine (it is not, by the way).  And so, I had my two oldest children vaccinated, since gosh, it was mandatory right?  Only later did I find out that it is not mandatory (though it is preferred that children be vaccinated).

fast forward to Garrett's rash:



I took him to our family Dr, whom I absolutely love, and yes, it is Chicken Pox.  When the children are vaccinated, they are not given full immunity - they will more than likely develop what is called an attenuated case of Chicken Pox.  Essentially, this is a milder case.

I don't see this as a mild case.  He is getting Benadryl for the itching, and there is no place on his body without spots.

Since we were at church yesterday morning, I have called all the families with children and told them about the Chicken Pox.   I thank God for their kindness.  They would have been within their rights to be upset about this, since Garrett had some spots yesterday, but, they were all loving and gentle about it.

And yes, when the girls get the Chicken Pox (should be a week or two), we will be having a play date with a few other families - including our Doctor (who doesn't vaccinate her children for Chicken Pox either).

Blessings,
Hope