I have recently recovered from a cold. It was nothing too bad, all in the head, but one of the side effects was that I lost my voice for several days.
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Some may have been grateful for that, but it was incredibly frustrating and exhausting when I did need to speak. I was virtually inaudible, and that meant that I often had to repeat what I said when I actually needed to speak.
I'm happy to say that the voice has returned and the cold has passed. But I now realise that an underlying contributor to my cold-like symptoms was that dreaded seasonal condition, hayfever.
I know well that it is not a lingering cold, as a daily dose of hayfever medication quickly makes me feel all better.
I don't know why I should be surprised that a seasonal condition has latched on; it happens every year. Sometimes it is worse than others, and unfortunately for me, this is one of those years when it is particularly bad.
Not surprising, considering the flowering trees - in particular the wattle - seem to be extra vibrant this year.
Now don't get me wrong, I love Spring... the weather is uplifting - not too hot, not too cold. Usually, it is something Goldilocks would embrace - just right.
I love the sound of the birds - their songs seem far brighter during this season. Then there is the visual delight of blossoming gardens and trees.
And I especially love to see the new life. Yes, I know this happens year-round, but there are always more ducklings on waterways, and sheep, calves and foals in paddocks at this time of year.
Without a doubt, this is the season of new life and new hope. The perfect tonic after a long, cold winter.
But I really would prefer to experience the beauty without the watering eyes and the sneezing. The pollens truly get up my nose.
However, I have heard from several people that a daily dose of local honey is a certain remedy, so I am trying that this year. Time will tell.
In the meantime, I would love to hear from others about their solution to the worst part of this otherwise great season.
I'm open to any suggestions so I can better appreciate the season without sneezing and wheezing.
Meanwhile, I am hoping that a spoonful of honey is the perfect medicine.
Jackie Meyers, ACM editor
