Bark! Bark!---- The Convalescent Basket ----

Oh, my goodness me... My son and I have the epizootie! We both have been going to work anyway, but I'm thinking tomorrow I may stay home and recuperate. It's just that nasty cough and a yucky cold.... but I'm sure everyone is sick of hearing me hack. It isn't the same to be "sick" at someone else's home. This is the first time for that experience. If I were home, I'd probably just pile up in a recliner or bed with a big vat of Vick's. (This image is so cute... what I'd like to be doing. It's for sale here.)

About a year ago I created a "sick" basket. I used a wonderful old tin my mother had given me and in it I put some great teas, a package or two of instant hot cider, and some real herbal medications that have brought ne some comfort. I also put in there a special new candle to burn during the time I was home... I added a metal tin of POTENT cough drops called Fisherman's Friend... Oh, my! They do work, but they are soooo strong. It was a fairly big tin, so I also treated my "future sick self" to a favorite movie... Guess what DVD I put in there? You got it! I put in Chocolat (and I had been searching for it for at least three months because I forgot I put it in there (they say middle aged women can hide their own Easter eggs, and I believe 'em.) I also found Sleepless in Seattle, and a copy of an Irish Celtic Music CD. I have several books, one a newer one by John O'Donohue, some scripture cards from a little pouch by Beth Moore, and a new tube of lipstick and a new box of eye shadow.... I wrote myself a little note telling myself that I was sorry I had been ill and reminding myself to take it easy.... It was a flawless and fun plan.....

Oh, if you do this Convalescent Basket, you might consider NOT telling your son the location of the Tylenol Cold and Sinus and the new Vicks Vaporub bottle.... He might tease you for a very, very long time... But it was definitely like a little dose of "mothering" without having to bug anyone. I truly recommend it... that, and being good enough to yourself to stay home from work and rest.