As we were enjoying the blessings of the Christmas season, a virus crept its way into our home. Fever, coughing, and runny noses, the little ones have been hit the hardest. Teddy was terribly croupy and needed a dose of steroids to help his breathing. The last few days have been challenging but I am ever hopeful that tomorrow will bring better health to all of us. The only person untouched by this virus has been my mother who claims she is healthy because of all the papaya seeds she’s been eating. The rest of us are going through significant amounts of acetaminophen, ibuprofen and throat lozenges but maybe we should give those papaya seeds a try. Other than drugs our days are filled with hot tea, steamy showers, rest and homemade chest rub. Occasionally when everyone is feeling suitably medicated we gather round for a boardgame or a movie.

While we’ve all been feeling unwell I received a package from a friend. In it was tea, a mug and chocolate. The arrival of the gift could not have been better timed. Thank you dear Elisa.