The Cold

crept in last night, stealing down from the mountains and across the plains. Covering the camp like a frostly blanket, it caught me unawares in the middle of the night. Awaking, nose cold and breath visible in the air, I started to sneeze. Not that I needed any incentive to cough and sneeze. This particular virus has been hanging around for several days, just to make me miserable.

My nice flannel sheets are in the laundry and the poncho liner substituting for a bottom sheet is slippery enough to have dumped my kleenex onto the dusty floor. Tripping as I untangle myself, I suddenly notice that it is a bit dark in the room with only the backlight provided by my laptop illuminating a small area.

Brain kicking in I think – ah, no power, no lights, no heat. Taking flashlight in hand from the night stand I stumble across boots, books and a chair to the door. Flipping the switch, the overhead lights come on as I am quietly grateful that Michelle is on R&R and won’t be disturbed by a flash of lights in her eyes.

The heat is not on. Thank goodness it starts back up with a reset. Sticking my nose out the door, the security light is on and our section of the compound is quiet. More sneezes as I crawl back in bed.

Several hours later, I give up, get up and head to work. Perhaps to spread the joy of my virus to everyone else but more likely to attempt to get some work done. My pillow is still calling me.

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7 Responses to The Cold

  1. Alison says:

    Glad the heat was reset-able! I’m just getting over a cold after nearly two weeks; I hope yours treats you gently.

  2. ruth says:

    Feel better! Who needs a runny nose and cough anyhow! Hope your heat stays on.

  3. Bob says:

    Knowing you have the skills, medicine and incentive to heal, all I can add is I’m praying you’ll get well quickly.

  4. Carmen says:

    Oh, sorry about the virus. Not much to be done, right? Except don’t let it weaken you and turn into an infection.

  5. Pat says:

    You didn’t mention the windchill. I just checked, and it showed
    northern Afghanistan as having regular temps in the 40s and wind
    chills of closer to 25. Definitely need a heater! Poor thing.

  6. Mary says:

    PLS go back to bed and stay warm and snug so you can get rild of the virus you’ve picked up!!

    I’m sorry you are not feeling great – must be even more difficult under the conditions you are facing. PLS rest!!

  7. Kathie says:

    Feel better fast.

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