The Cat Scratch, the Shots, and the Christmas Tree Pose

Parenting is full of unexpected moments—some funny, some stressful, and others that teach us patience and resilience. One ordinary afternoon turned into quite an experience when our youngest had a run-in with our neighbor’s cat, leading us on a trip for vaccines, tears, and eventually, ice cream smiles. This is a little story about fear, comfort, and how kids can find joy even after the toughest moments.

When I arrived home from work that afternoon, my partner told me that our youngest had been scratched by our neighbor's orange cat. But this young guy just cried and didn't want to show us the scratches. I was a bit worried since the rabies cases in the country are increasing. Though only scratches, it's better safe than sorry.

Early in the morning the next day, we went to our nearest health station and inquired about the anti-rabies vaccine. the vaccine is not for free anymore, good thing meron din nakagat ng pusa yung anak nya and we agreed to be partners in buying the vaccine para hati na lang din kami sa price, nakakasave ng kalahati.

After the check-up and the vaccine was bought, we lined ourselves for the shots. Tetanus vaccine was also required, so my son needed two shots that day. He was so scared to have the vaccines, he even cried and asked me to go home, but I told him to have the shot. He held my arms as if he didn't want to let go while waiting for his name to be called. His shouts and cries were heard over the whole facility. He cried like no tomorrow. The doctor and I had a hard time holding his arms and feet while doing the injection. He wanted to run, hahahahha.

After the shot, I brought him to the nearest hypermarket when he asked me if he could have an ice cream. His tears were gone when we entered the cold and big store. He then went to the ice cream station and enjoyed his cup of ice cream. I was just enjoying watching him, realizing how easy a kid's mind and pain can be directed into something they truly love.

After his ice cream, he asked me to go to the school supplies section. I wondered what he had in mind. I was worrying he might request something my wallet couldn't afford. His vaccine was ruining my wallet a while ago. Good thing he picked some erasers and crayons, and he was very happy when I said yes. We went to the cashier and paid for his items.

He then had a good pose beneath the Christmas tree near the entrance and had his poses outside the store, which he really enjoyed a lot. We went home and I never told him that he still had two other shots in the following weeks.

At the end of the day, what matters most is keeping our children safe and healthy, even if it means a few tears (and a few extra expenses). Kids may cry and resist in the moment, but with a little love, comfort, and of course, ice cream, they bounce back faster than we expect.