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Mad or Manic Holidaze

Growing up my mom absolutely loved the holidays. Our family would head downtown to see the Christmas displays in the department store windows, watch the enormous toy train set in the train station lobby and visit the Santas from around the world on display in PPG Place, a beautiful glass tower complex that shined likeContinue reading “Mad or Manic Holidaze”

Anticipate the Good

Last Friday I was full of anticipation. I had been looking forward to my weekend trip since June when my sister bought tickets for us to attend a pop up Alice in Wonderland themed cocktail event. One thing I learned after Mastering Misery and my experience with 60 burials a week working at the cemeteryContinue reading “Anticipate the Good”

Personal Growth

One day during the Nervous Nellie saga while I was driving eight plus hours every two weeks to support my mom’s care, I was invited to join another department at work. It was the opportunity I knew I wanted from my first month in my new role. I thought about it and discussed it withContinue reading “Personal Growth”

One More Time

After my release from the psychiatric unit following my suicide attempt described in Darkness Descends, I realized I needed to make some changes to improve my life and make it worth living again. I also had to get ahead of mounting financial pressures. We downsized and down graded our living arrangements by moving into lowContinue reading “One More Time”

Darkness Descends

As I prepared to return to Tony in Florida, I tried to acclimate back to a “normal” and healthy feeling in my body and mind. My nerves were gone. I felt like a collection of fireworks filled with anxiety, fear, uncertainty, and dread were exploding inside my body on a constant basis. I vividly rememberContinue reading “Darkness Descends”

What Does Bipolar Feel Like?

My mental health challenges have been like suddenly falling into the angry, raging rapids of a fast moving river at night in 20 degree weather while wearing a snowsuit, boots, and bottom layer long johns. Almost impossible to survive. I hear a lot of messages about accepting your shortcomings as they are. Loving yourself unconditionally.Continue reading “What Does Bipolar Feel Like?”