Hey, everybody! Reader here, and it’s good to be back. I’ve spent much of the summer covering the agriculture desk for our sister stations, so it’s nice to wrap that up and get back to the everyday routine.
Of course, we’re not quite back to normal yet, as Grayson is away on vacation this week, and then when he returns, I’m taking my summer sojourn for a couple of weeks. But, we’re getting there!
I’ve got a question for you all. Have you ever found yourself with random aches and pains, bumps and bruises, and you have absolutely no idea how you got them?
Well, I’ve got a new one.
Over the weekend, I was back home at Conquest, for a Read family reunion. It was a great time, and we spent lots of time Saturday sitting outside, visiting and laughing, and being in the smoky air, which was added to by the bonfire we had going later in the evening. It also sprinkled a bit of rain, adding a wee bit of dampness in the air. Between the smoke, the moisture, late night coolness in the air, and being loud with 60 to 70 Reads, I woke up Sunday morning, and found I’d lost my voice… at least partially, anyway…
This is the oddest thing I’ve ever experienced. How do you lose HALF of your voice?
Hopefully, it doesn’t last too long.
What’s the best way to get your voice back? I put the question to our AI assistant, and here’s what it came up with:
1. Rest Your Voice: Try to talk less and avoid whispering (it actually strains your vocal cords even more). (I didn’t know about the whispering part, to be honest!)
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your throat moist and help your vocal cords recover.
3. Use Steam: Breathe in steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water to soothe and hydrate your throat.
4. Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of smoking, alcohol, and caffeine, as they can dry out and irritate your throat. (Well, I enjoyed a few wobblies at the reunion, and a few Coca-Colas as well over the weekend. Now they tell me.)
5. Sip Warm Liquids: Herbal teas with honey can be especially soothing.
6. Skip the Throat Clearing: It might feel good, but it can actually make things worse. Try swallowing or sipping water instead. (Kinda hard to avoid this one, especially when I have to go on air to chat with you guys or read the news. I don’t want to sound all phlegmy!)
7. Give It Time: Most cases clear up on their own with a little TLC. Remember, your voice is telling you it needs a break—listen to it! If things don’t improve in a week or two, consider checking in with a healthcare professional. (Well, with Grayson away, it’s up to me to keep th morning show running, so I’ll talk as sparingly as possible, to give the ol’ vocal cords a rest!)
I’ll try out these tips and see if they do the trick!
In any event, voice or no voice, it’s great to be back with you all in the morning!
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