DEATH WARMED OVER

Well, it was bound to happen sooner or later. Each and every year that I can remember, when the Summer heat abates and the cool weather rolls in, I get my annual cold/brush with (what feels like) death. Usually it doesn't hit until mid-October but since Chicago's weather seemingly went from consistently hot-as-hell days in the 90's to what-the-fuck-is-this-bullshit days in the low 60's/upper 50's virtually overnight.

Keep in mind, I am not complaining. Extreme heat and I do not play together well so I am always excited for the arrival of fall. But this year it seems to have arrived early, or rather faster than by body had anticipated it would. For the last few days I've felt the slow creep of sickness and rather than do the smart thing and get lots of rest, I have done the opposite.

For example, instead of staying in and resting on Tuesday night, I went out with a friend that needed cheering up. Somehow that translated in to a $70 bar tab, in 2 hours no less (needless to say he was feeling much cheerier by the time we left the bar). Somehow I still managed to get home before Midnight (a minor miracle on any night I go out), but still, I'm sure the shots of Maker's Mark I drank did not help.

Last night I went to the gym for the first time in over a week and I think the quick burst of endorphins helped to mask the symptoms of whatever it is I have. But when I awoke this morning for work, was no denying it. I felt like death warmed over (sounded like it to). I suppose I could have called in, but since I figured it would be quiet at the office I could deal (and thus far it has been very quiet).

Regardless, I can handle this and I have already deployed several counter-measures in my anti-cold arsenal. OJ, Green Tea, Chicken Soup and 325mg of Acetaminophen (or whatever they use in "Wal-Phed"). In 2 hours or so I'll be curled up on mu couch, drinking more tea and watching the Wire. I will live to push paper for another day.