If you get my Freebie Friday newsletter, you most likely read Midge’s question about what to pack in a care package for a sick friend (if you don’t get my FREE newsletter be sure and subscribe via the sticky note in the upper right corner). Read below to find out what my suggestions are for care package ideas! Molly

Dear Midge,

Unfortunately, the winter season usually comes with sick days. When putting together a care package for a sick friend, I like to begin with a pretty basket. I’ve found that if I browse my local second hand store(s), I can usually find a pretty basket (or two!) for a very good price. Once I’m at home, I look around for a pretty ribbon or some raffia to add to the basket. I try to line it with some colorful tissue paper (do you have any left over from Christmas?) or even a pretty towel. Note: I usually pick up a few kitchen/bathroom hand towels from a dollar type store when I know I’ll be putting together a gift basket to give away.

When it comes to the contents, I think about the things I might like when I’m sick. I always like to include a small box of tissues and a coffee cup containing a package of hot cocoa or some tea bags (I look for coffee cups at second hand or thrift stores). One time I made a care package for my sister when she was ill and I included a movie from a $5 movie bin. It happened to be a movie we watched as children. She loved it!

Sometimes I like to make some chicken noodle soup, ladle it into a mason jar and deliver it along with the care package. I almost always place a package of saltine crackers into the basket as well. Who doesn’t like a few saltine crackers when you’re sick?

The care package you put together doesn’t have to contain a lot of items, just a few will do the trick. The main purpose is to let the person know you are thinking of them and wishing them well. You could tuck a little note inside the basket or even have your children make cards to send along.

I hope this helps! Love ya, Molly