One of the things you do...

...as a parent.

On Saturday at 5 a.m., I queued up at a local H1N1 vaccination clinic. These free clinics are aimed at inoculating the uninsured and/or higher-risk population in my county - pregnant persons, 6-24 y.o.'s, and those with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, HIV, emphysema and so forth.

This is a first for getting out of bed so early in the morning to queue for anything. Like you wouldn't find me out on the streets, pre-dawn, for Black Friday or anything of the like.

The scene from the first of one of these free vaccination clinics a couple of weeks prior to this day's was not pretty. The queue stretched for a mile (exaggeration intended for emphasis). I happened to be driving by and my jaw dropped at the sight. At the time I hadn't even considered getting my little people to one of these clinics, however, seeing as the wait for the vaccines at my doc's office was undetermined, I thought I oughtta get them theirs. The sooner, the better as they say.

I kinda sprung it on Mr. P. A couple of days before I told him "our" H1n1 plan. He'd never seen me take the initiative to do something at such an un-godly hour. So, the night before, he helps to load a lawn chair into my car while I made sure I put a reading light and a snack into my purse.

The next morning, when I arrived at the community center where the clinic was to be held, there were already a dozen people ensconced outside. It was a drizzly, foggy morning and luckily for us early-early-risers we had shelter. Anyone who arrived after 6 a.m. had to suffer the precipitation beyond the shelter of the landing. We had hours to kill before the 9 a.m. start time.

I had a pleasant enough time and enjoyed the whole experience. I was warm in my down, comfy in my chair and engrossed by my book. I felt good about doing something that could potentially benefit the offspring. There was genial chatter amongst the queuers. I was glad no one went on and on about their early-morning sufferings. The time seemed to pass quickly.

The families (and "entourages") of everyone began arriving around 8:30 a.m. and it got a little squishy. I was mildly worried about people converging, stampeding, stepping out of line but that wouldn't happen because we're civilized people in my city. ;)  The organizers secured many security personnel, as well as, well-groomed firefighters and police officers (the males all looked like they had fresh haircuts and shaves).

After a wait of 3.5 + hours, persons were inoculated and merrily on our way.

We are required to do this again for the younger girl-child, who must have a 2nd nasal mist.

Mr. P will handle that pre-dawn queue, thank him very much.

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