Dear Nasty Influenza Virus,

Thanks so much for the 102-103 fever accompanied by hacking cough, complete and utter exhaustion, chills, aches, you know, the whole nine yards.  Thanks for the loss of appetite, headaches, and sexy man voice.  Thanks for it all.  You, disgusting as you are in every imaginable way, have made me thankful.  For were it not for you, I would not have stopped to think about all I am blessed to do every single day without even thinking about it.  Were it not for you, my days would not have been accompanied by the deliciousness that is Orange Julius, and that, Nasty Influenza Virus, is something to be truly be grateful for.  Were it not for you, I would’ve worked the hours away and not had the opportunity to take day long naps with sweet Sophie asleep at my feet.  Were it not for you spreading to Mr. Hallmark, we would not have had uninterrupted time together.  Even if you just made us cough and sleep in excessive amounts, it was together, and it forced us to just stop and take care of ourselves and each other and get well.  Were it not for you, movies, both good and bad would not have been watched.  Were it not for you, I would not have remembered how fortunate I am to know that though I felt awful, it would only be temporary.  So many people have conditions that never go away, that they have to live with day in and day out for the rest of their lives.  So for opening my eyes and reminding me how much I have to be thankful for on Thanksgiving and always, Nasty Influenza Virus, I thank you.

And for all you Orange Julius lovers out there…I’m about to divulge some seriously top secret news here.  I am passing along our Kwajalein originated Orange Julius recipe – a treat our family only enjoys on Christmas morning or when feeling under the weather.  May you be well and enjoy it as much as we have over the years.

ORANGE JULIUS

3 oz. Orange Juice Concentrate

1/4 C. Sugar

1/2 C. Milk

1/2 C. Water

1/2 teaspoon Vanilla

4-5 Ice Cubes

Blend together and enjoy!