In the spirit of being thankful

the turkey I created in "Inspired by Nature"

Yesterday in my Creative Expression group, we had to make a list of 20 things we are grateful for… I want to take this even further today (since I know I will be spending Thursday celebrating at two Thanksgiving dinners - a family tradition).

First and foremost I am so thankful to my community.  Friends, family and colleagues that have reached out with love and support.  Those of you who have literally been a shoulder to cry on… and on… and on…  Those who have contacted me through phone calls, texts, hugs, emails, comments, etc. have often been my lifeline, making me feel connected to my “usual” life and cared for. My “staff” of professionals - therapists, doctors,psychiatrists and assorted others who are continuing to assist me in getting through this rough patch of my life.  Especially Dr. K, who is continuing to be a part of my support team, even when I am not currently her patient. Dan and my girls, which go without saying, who keep it real and offer me spots of smiling and laughing and silly amid the chaos.

Two institutions: the one where I am officially employed and the other where I am working my hardest right now.  One is allowing me the opportunity to recover and heal at the other.  Without adding to my anxieties.  That is HUGE.  I am also grateful that I am able to spend a little time at school working in a small capacity to keep me connected to some of my students and colleagues.  And now, a few days ago I am not sure I would have felt this way, I have to already give thanks for the program I am enrolled in.  The staff has been incredible and I have noticed that in the first 5 days there.  Yesterday, Dr. M (another psychiatrist - this time with a different initial) had a wonderful insight as to why some of my meds may not have been working to their fullest ability.  He is going to continue to monitor and work on this with me and the entire team.  My personal counselor, C, has shown nothing but patience and concern with each and every time I’ve approached her in tears (more than I could keep count of).  But she is helping me to figure out how to handle and cope and gain skills to use by myself - and today I actually had the opportunity to put one into action.  And it felt great.  

The people I am meeting and connecting with and getting insight from and sharing commonalities with.  For example D, who in a group where we were preparing ourselves for the stress that comes with the holidays for everyone (but is often amplified for those struggling through a depressive episode) declared that he loved turtles.  After we gave him a strange look and he explained that they have a shell to protect them, but do have to emerge to eat and interact with others, I grasped onto that image.  And in a way it will help me through the holidays with family and friends. (He did ask if he was going to make it into my blog - so there it is).  Having support from “peers” from 10 - 4 makes the day go a little easier.  I am grateful that I will have several months to work on my health with others doing the same.

I could continue with the list I made in my group - it included sunny days, clean air, a roof over my head, making art, etc.  but I will just end it with a note of being grateful that I am where I am and equally grateful for the many songs, quotes, readings, articles, etc. I’ve found that are encouraging me on this journey.  Here is a link to some of the pick me ups from Pinterest that help me: https://www.pinterest.com/mom2monkeys/things-that-help-on-hard-days/

Wishing everyone a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving.  Off to make my traditional Pecan Pie Baklava (let the drooling commence)!