B is sick, and though she says she doesn't need anything (juice, food, trip to ER), I'm concerned about that deep cough she has. It's not like her to be ill enough to take to her bed, and I think I'll hang around, doing this and that (as Sue says), stuff, just in case. She's usually very healthy and strong....

It's hard to be sick, really sick, and alone. Intellectually you know that it's just a cold or the flu or whatever, and you'll get over it--but deep down we like to know that someone cares whether we live or die. Or, less dramatically, is around and about and can help if needed.

I made sure she had juice by her bedside, and the cell phone within easy reach. She's sleeping now, and I hope that means that her body is fighting the bug successfully.

I don't have to fuss over her; that is our agreement. But the nurturing part of me wants to help, if she needs me. Isn't that what friends are for?