Back when I joined Vicks VapoRub for their Winter campaign, I had no idea a few months later I'd be in another country 5,000 miles from home.  How in the world could I write a natural cough-and-cold-ish story that would support a product sold in the U.S.? 

Well, a story fell slap in my lap when I discovered it's sold in over 50 countries outside the U.S., one of which is Germany! 

My cousin, Ellie, has lived in Germany since the 80s, and a few weeks ago she and her boyfriend Walter came for a visit.  Walter could tell a cold was sneaking up on him, so he brought a few remedies in case symptoms persisted.

GERMAN NOTE OF INTEREST:  While aspirin and acetamiophen can be bought in Germany, they're behind the counter; stronger, "American" over-the-counter drugs require a doctor's prescription.  And there are NO drive-through pharmacies!

In Walter's cough and cold arsenol was none other than a container of Vicks VapoRub ~ obviously used ~ still in its box.

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"Walter…" I shouted (I did, I really did!), "You just wrote my blog post for me!" 

Is it wrong that I delighted in the man's misfortune? 

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6874488721_19ac684dd9_mSomethin' tells me he didn't mind too much….??

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I'm publishing this on Leap Day, a rarity on our calendar, a day to do something for someone else or just plain fun or super special or maybe just a bit out of the ordinary.  Might you consider:

 ~ Liking Vicks' Facebook page and then send a virtual care package to one of YOUR FB friends who's under the weather.

~ Try a new recipe.  Vicks' Nature Fusion You Tube Channel with hunky celebrity chef Curtis Stone features EASY, HEALTHY recipes to incorporate into your family's daily routine.  The simplicity of Stone's homemade granola recipe has me wanting to try it.

~ Seth Godin has some lovely ideas; I'd say choose one or two, do 'em everyday for the next three weeks, and voilà!  A new habit is born!

Your turn:  True confessions!  Are you a Vicks "huffer"?  I'm not suggesting you use it inappropriately, but I've had several friends use that expression since I started writing for them!   Don't feel like fessing up?  Tell me your plans for Leap Day!!

 

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