Crash! Boom! Bang! 4th of July Sparkle for the Sick

It's no fun to be sick and discouraged on the holidays while everyone else is having a good time. So, remember to include folks who are shut in even if it's with a short visit or a card. Everyone wants to celebrate and to have some distraction from the boredom of a slow recovery. So, what can you do? Here are some ideas. Send a 4th of July card. Who doesn't love getting a card in the mail? You can either pick one up at the store or have the kids make one. Bring a 4th of July treat. The Internet is chock full of fun patriotic food ideas. You'll find easy-to-make red, white, and blue kabobs (made with any combination of strawberries, watermelon, blueberries, bananas, marshmallows, angel food cake chunks, or Rice Krispies® Treats stars), yummy cupcakes, decorated cookies, homemade ice cream, and a ton of other great ideas. Don't forget the 4th of July napkins and plates or maybe even a red, white, and blue tablecloth. Decorate the Room. Even simple touches can make a big difference. Think about bringing a cheery Mylar balloon. (Remember, latex balloons are often not allowed in hospitals due to allergies.) If flowers are allowed, just add a little flag to the pot. You can even decorate a white pillowcase with red and blue permanent markers. Don't forget to include the kids. They'll love to make 4th of July pictures (fireworks, flags, eagles, stars)! Put on some patriotic or marching band music. Bring in the music and strike up the band! Do whatever is easy. You can use an old-fashioned boom box or stream music over the TV, a phone, tablet or computer. Dress up for the 4th. It's fun to dress the part, but it doesn't have to be complicated. Bring over a patriotic hat, a pair of socks, hair bows, stickers, temporary tattoos, or even some face paint. If you need inspiration, just look online. Watch a patriotic show or video. Even though an outdoor fireworks show may be out of the question, watch one on TV or put on a great old movie like Yankee Doodle Dandy or Independence Day to boost some spirits. So, plan to bring some 4th of July sparkle to someone sick or down in the dumps. This could be a needed and fun "shot in the arm." And, by helping someone celebrate Independence Day and the Red, White, and Blue, you will also be an "everyday hero." Copyright 2014 Allidah Hicks and Bonnie Knuti. All rights reserved.