Seen But Not Heard

That is the way it’s been around here the last few days. No, not talking about the children – talking about me! The family passed around an upper respiratory thingy. I thought I might escape, but it seems they wanted to share with Ol’ mom as well. Bummer.

I could feel it coming on by the time I went to bed Monday night. Tuesday and Wednesday I couldn’t speak above a whisper. So, I took it easy, putting most things on the back burner. Taking care of the ‘must do’ items only.

Times like this can often be blessings in disguise. It has reminded me once again of what an amazing family I have. C and L pulled more than their fair share of household chores and child care. M looked the other way when the laundry wasn’t caught up and his wife was not the best of company.

It also has been a reminder that a quietly spoken word will often get better attention than the same word spoken loudly. I was very aware of how many words I would normally use to express my thoughts, but under these conditions was able to convey my requests with only a few whispers. I see how I speak without thinking, stringing many words together hoping someone hears, hoping someone figures out what it is I am trying to say.

The most difficult part of this infirmity – I was not able to voice ‘Thank You’ for all my birthday surprises! I appreciated everything my family and friends did for me to make it a special day, but couldn’t voice it out loud. I hope they know how much it meant to me, how much I love each of them.


And as an extra bonus – M stayed home today to run my extra errands and do some things around the house so I could take it easy and kick this thing. I can now speak with a gravelly tone and octave or two lower than my usual voice. There are lots of events and projects coming up so I need to be in my top form. Time for my tea w/ lemon and honey!