Nobody wants to be sick as a child, and I was no exception. Being sick meant no play whatsoever; which was horrid because “playing” is all we knew. We played indoor board games, outdoor team games, make believe, Easybake, Barbies, and babies – we rode our bikes everywhere, we ran through the sprinkler, we went sledding and skating up the road… we played hard! There were no video games, DVDs, DVRs, cable television, or cell phones. The only electronic item we played with was our record player and the T.V. antenna. When you were sick as a kid back then, there was only one thing good about it, actually great about it - the good eats!  

I remember my mommy revamping our bedroom for the sick stay; fluffing pillows with rose scented pillowcases and Grandma’s flower garden quilt for our bed, setting up the classic Vicks vaporizer in the corner and a T.V. tray next to our bed. But what she put on the tray was my favorite part of the convalescence period…

I always loved that my dear mommy made us special food when we were under-the-weather so we felt special too. I remember her bringing me a vintage tray with sassafras tea made with cream and sugar and a small glass of Vernors ginger ale. She also made soft-boiled eggs with crumbled buttered toast or raisin toast triangles with honey cinnamon butter. But what I remember most fondly were her puddings; creamy rice, brown sugar butterscotch, vanilla with her homemade raspberry jam, and my cherished chocolate pudding made with Hershey’s cocoa, milk, and butter. They were warm and creamy and perfect.

I also remember when I was older and under-the-weather that my sweet daddy would bring me home a cheeseburger and chocolate milkshake from a local drugstore soda fountain. I am not sure how great it was for an upset tummy, but it was my daddy’s way to make me feel comforted and I still love him for it. :)

Our elderly bed-ridden neighbors across the road used to get teary eyed when I would bring them homemade meatloaf, mashed potatoes, pies, and such. Although they were sick, the special, homemade food made their faces light up with delight. I love thinking about how much my food made them feel loved during their last years.

It always amazes me how yummy, comforting food makes us feel content and happy. To this day, I love spoiling my family and friends with special under-the-weather treats, so they too, feel special, comforted, and loved.