Did you know...

...that it's possible to hyperventilate just by taking slow, supposedly calming breaths? It is. And apparently I'm prone to doing just that. Long, deep slow breaths - which seem like they should be calming - are just as bad as frequent, rapid short breaths. Either way, you keep doing it and you'll be losing too much CO₂ and your hands and feet and lips will get all numb and eventually you'll pass out. (Learned this the other night on the way to the ER from a really cute paramedic with a southern accent. Life isn't all bad.)

Posting right now mainly because big_brian_o said:

there is a super cold as they call it going around. It is said to be horrible.

To which I replied:
Really? That would pretty much describe it. Antibiotics do nothing for it since it's viral, not bacterial, but it's worse than any cold I can imagine. Because it's so bad, it keeps getting misdiagnosed - I started out with a diagnosis of bronchitis. Mom and Dad are both sick with the same thing, yes, though not nearly as bad.

They did run a crapload of tests on me when I was in the ER and were able to tell me that I'm doing everything I can possibly do to get better. It just has to run its course, which seems to be a much longer course than any cold they've dealt with in recent memory.

I have to admit this is one of those times when the benefits of being raised Mormon are somewhat worthwhile. The Relief Society (the church's women's organization) has been bringing us dinner every night, and there's always someone we can call if we need something picked up at the pharmacy or whatever.

I'm having occasional moments now where I feel a bit better, so I'm taking that as a good sign, but trying not to push it either. I have read every single one of your comments and e-cards and whatnot and appreciate every one of them. I've got some awesome friends, obviously.

And before I crawl back to bed, I simply must say...

Rest In Peace, Heath. You and your talent will be sorely missed.