I cooked up a storm this weekend for the first time in a while, and I have the scars (internal and external) to prove it. I realized—while stomping out the fire on my arm—that a few flimsy Band-Aids, two bottles of sunblock, and half a tube of Preparation H (that expired four years ago) provide little relief in a medical emergency. I also realized it's a good thing I don't cook more often. Anyway, I'm now focused on stocking a practical—and of course, pretty!—first-aid kit. This metal first-aid storage box, with an inner tray and divided lower compartments, is so bright and neat that I might actually remember to keep it stocked.

I'm calm in a crisis; I think it's an Irish thing. It's not that we're especially brave, we're just raised to not cause a fuss, so we downplay everything. For instance, if I got hit by a car, I'd probably drag my broken body over to the driver to apologize and say, "It's just a scratch!" If you are less calm/repressed, you might appreciate this Keep Calm and Carry On first-aid kit. Cute tin includes Band-Aids, bandages, scissors, tape, alcohol pad, and pins. Nice gift for the college-bound.

While I am happy to avail of modern medical treatments and drugs for what ails me, I'm drawn to vintage wooden first-aid boxes. Love this old-school pinewood box with its simple sliding top marked with a red cross. Thinking it would make a great care package filled with cute Band-Aids, healing teas, trashy magazines, and cushy socks for a good friend recovering from a recent surgery.