Yesterday felt like November in Bellingham. Gray skies, a chill in the air, and a constant downpour of rain.

I usually love those days. They’re a time for curling up in front of a fire with a good book or snuggling down with the kids for afternoon movies.

The thing is, I wasn’t quite ready to give up the beautiful days of summer (yes, I do realize it’s officially fall). This refusal to face reality was the reason I underdressed for the weather (open-toed sandals and a light jacket over slacks and a blouse). I know, I must be insane.

Even so, trust me when I caution that you DO NOT want to spend a Novemberish day in my office if you are dressed for August. My office happens to be located in one of the oldest buildings in town. It’s a quirky space with high ceilings, lots of woodwork, and radiator heat - radiator heat that isn’t turned on until mid-October. Hence the problem.

I spent the day huddled over my keyboard in my damp jacket working through sniffles, sneezes, and the occasional cough. It was freezing and I was decidedly sick by the time I dragged myself home.

That’s when the magic happened. My wonderful husband gave me The Cure For What Ails You (that’s what they call a hot toddy in his family). After giving me time to take a long, hot shower and wrap up in blankets, he fed the kids, and then brought me dinner and that lovely drink.

It worked - warming me up and banishing any trace of the sniffles. Today I feel fabulous!

So if you’re ailing, here’s his recipe for The Cure:

HOT TODDY

1 mug boiling water
1 teabag (Constant Comment)
1 spoonful of sugar
1 shot of bourbon

Steep the teabag for several minutes in the boiling water. Add the sugar and bourbon. Enjoy!

P.S. If you’re making a small pot, double the recipe.