What Are You Doing Tonight?
Hi there, come on in. No, don't get too close ... I really don't feel good. Thank you, and I feel worse than I look. It's one of those stomach flu viruses that pops up now and again when you're an unsuspecting victim. Translation: turn around and run.
So here I sit alone, feeling like death warmed over but proud that I'm saving the world from further infection. I work the desk at an oceanfront motel, as many of you know, and it's really freaking busy at this time of the year. Which means that I meet, greet and warmly welcome lots of folks into the fold every day. Tonight I am cursing them all - since I don't know which one of the insolent bastards decided to share this with me. Don't tell my Mom I said bastards. Please. When I'm sick I revert to a child and really worry about things like that.
Things like the ashtray under the bed or the bong in the closet. The ding in the fender and the scratch on the door. The bonfire my friends and I started that required the assistance of the friendly neighborhood fire department or the upchucking into the porcelain god of parties gone wild. Mental note - do not say "upchucking". Excuse me for a moment.
The lights are low, the music is soft and I'm in the ugly blue chair with my feet tucked up underneath me and my arms wrapped around a pillow. And I'm sick. I've even had to abandon my cheap Zin for some tea that Wendy left. It's a comfort, as is the thought that you're all out there feeling wonderful and having fun. Even though I'm alone, I'm wondering ... what are you doing tonight?
(puts a popsicle near barefoot)
It's a shallow bowl, so let it melt if you like.
I am not ascared of flus. Mommy training, I guess. =D. You need rest. Lots of it, too. I'll light this candle, cinnamon and apple. A nice dry scent.
A bit of soft music to rest by.... imagine dancing with the one you love...
I'll be up here in the rafters if you need anything.
June 13, 2009 11:48 PM | Reply | Permalink
Moonlight Serenade ... thank you for the feather. Can't handle the popsicle yet, but my mind can dance.
June 14, 2009 12:32 AM | Reply | Permalink
Its ok for me, I mean I keep this mask on all the time anyway.
Missy. I do not like it when you are sick.
My chair is ugly but very comfortable thank you very much.
I shall continue to check in. The fire is nice and the music is fine.
June 13, 2009 11:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
Aw, luvvie. Here's some peppermint tea to drink, after you're done with the popsicle.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eClObBPuGak
Here's some nice soothing guitar for you too, luv.
When Grouch comes by, I'm sure he'll play even better guitar for you. But in the meantime, here's a hug, and a hope that you'll feel better soon.
June 13, 2009 11:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm here, Missy. What can I do to help?
June 14, 2009 1:03 AM | Reply | Permalink
Hmmm...
YouTube is acting up - I can't get there.
June 14, 2009 1:09 AM | Reply | Permalink
Got it on this machine:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Htvc4ZpV8h8
June 14, 2009 1:28 AM | Reply | Permalink
I waited for this, you know what that means. Worth the time - in spades.
June 14, 2009 1:37 AM | Reply | Permalink
Care for another?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7qpfGVUd8c
June 14, 2009 1:44 AM | Reply | Permalink
Well, I have successfully fought off the latest virus the child brought home from the cesspool we call preschool and generously shared with her sister, cousin, father, and Da'. My daughter and I are the last left standing. So I'm not scared. Mind if I sit with you a bit? I won't mind the snot, and if you fill up the bucket (being careful here to not use the word!) I'll empty it for you...
(Tucking blanket up around your chin.) Let me know when you need your tea warmed. I'll stay 'till you fall asleep.
June 14, 2009 1:32 AM | Reply | Permalink
My wonderful Still.
You warm me almost as much as my distant love. Your mention of the bucket makes me need one ... but otherwise I thank you for your kindly mothering more than I can express.
Sigh. I do need to rest.
June 14, 2009 1:45 AM | Reply | Permalink
And we bid you goodnight:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROPcZ8S_nwE
Here's to a better tomorrow.
June 14, 2009 1:52 AM | Reply | Permalink
Awww...that stinks Mis. Hope you are feeling better soon.
I used to work with many patients that had compromised immune systems. Yet I had 2 boys who brought home every germ known to man. The best way I found to protect myself (and any patients I came in contact with) was one of the best inventions ever made - Purell Hand Sanitizer!
If you work with the public honey, you absolutely have to have Purell. Some Chlorox wipes are handy too to wipe down your work station before you start your shift.
Sleep tight :)
June 14, 2009 3:46 AM | Reply | Permalink
Hope you are feeling a bit better this morning, M? If not, please stay tucked in today and call for room service for whatever you need from whomever is available.
If you can stand it, please have someone bring you Gatorade or Propel, as you'll begin to feel better when you can rehydrate and rebalance those fickle electrolytes.
Madge is right about the Purell for the front desk. So many viruses went through the school this year that the nurse ordered Purell by the case to put out everywhere.
Oh, and while you are in the privacy of your room, please don't forget the secret cozy weapon that we southerners tend to overlook because we go for years without owning any -- socks, the thicker, fleecier and softer the better.
Take care - W
June 14, 2009 11:18 AM | Reply | Permalink
Purell, though, will not work against viruses. It is antibacterial only.
June 14, 2009 11:29 AM | Reply | Permalink
You're right. OG. It is for infections, not viruses. Good thing I didn't become a doctor or nurse, eh?
June 14, 2009 2:04 PM | Reply | Permalink
Hi Missy - sure do hope another day has brought you some relief from your misery. Nothing worse than being alone when you are so sick. A cool hand on the forehead and some more tea might be welcome and I would like to sit by your side and give comfort and soft words.
Let us know how you are feeling - hope to hear from you soon and get well quickly.
June 14, 2009 2:06 PM | Reply | Permalink