Friday, December 21, 2018

The Word of the Year - Off the Wall Friday

I'm sure it won't surprise anybody, but this last year I've been struggling.  Its not so much just creatively, but struggling to do anything.....and everything.  I jokingly call it my not-depressed depression.  My doctor, though,  didn't find the humor in it and took me seriously.  Thank God she did.  Its like for the first time in about a year in a half the menofog that I've been experiencing is lifting.  The weird thing is that once the fog had lifted I looked around and found all the things that I've let go!  Little by little over the last 6 weeks though I've been getting things done and am definitely back on track to my old self.


That brings me to this year's word....Finish.  I have a long list of projects that need finishing!  That is totally not like me.  Normally I start a project and finish a project.  But not the last few years.  It seems like I have the attention span of a gnat!  This this year...2019...is about finishing!


Luckily I have about 10 days off from work that will not only be filled with family time but time in my studio.  I'm going to be posting a big TO-DO list in there and on here and will steadily work my way through the list.  For me that's the only way to get things done.  I plan on using my Happy Planner which has helped get my everyday life back on track.  I found out this week that there are people on Etsy that have made stickers just for sewing and quilting for my planner (of course there are - I mean aren't the Etsy people the most ingenious people we know?)  Between my new determination and some thoughtful planning, I know I can get this done!

Anybody who wants to join in with me on this quest please let me know.  We can keep ourselves accountable. 




Also, on a very much more serious note.....Depression is not just feeling sad, suicidal or worthless....its also the lost of interest in things you like the best, feeling tired all the time and having a foggy head or being unable to concentrate.  If you have these symptoms see your Doctor, please.  Don't be like me.  I went in for a totally unrelated matter....they gave me a screening that they were giving all their patients and lo and behold, I was suffering with a mild bout of depression.  GET HELP!  I can't believe I didn't go in sooner!!

Also to my Christian readers, Have a very Merry Christmas and remember how much God loves you.  To everyone else, take time to enjoy the ones you love and love you!!



So What Have You Been Up to Creatively?

11 comments:

Sherrie Spangler said...

So glad you're feeling better. Depression is not something to ignore, and it's amazing what a difference treatment can make. I hope next year is full of joy and creativity for you!

Jenny K. Lyon said...

I've been there and I am so glad for you that you addressed it. Menopause does mess with the brain. It's a journey. I am so happy for you that you get 10 DAYS in the studio! Go girl!

Studio Paars said...

I am glad you are starting to feel better. You're right: there is so much more to depression than just feeling down. I love that last quote, it feels very accurate. Remember though that part of healing is also not overtaxing yourself. You have all year to do all that finishing :)

The Inside Stori said...

Hurrah! So happy to hear with the help of professionals, you recognized the need for some help……and that it’s there for you!
Merry Christmas and best wishes for a happy and healthy 2019! Do remember, your blog provides much inspiration and happiness for your readers….YOU did that!! Thank you!!

quilter mom said...

I am glad that you are doing better. Meno related everything is not fun!!
I hope that you don't get or feel overwhelmed by the projects you think you need to finish. That is defeating.
Merry Christmas to you and yours. Also remember that God loves you too!
Here's to a Creative New Year!
I do enjoy your blog and pop in every Friday to see what you are up too as well as the other great artist that link up. Lots of inspiration and encouragement.

Shannon said...

SO glad you're doing better and talked do your doctor! Here's to a creative (and finish-filled) 2019!

LA Paylor said...

by that definition I'm full on depressed. I'm not sure how to join you in this endeavor but I send good thoughts to you finding your footing again. I am off balance from too much change this year.

Vera Holmgren said...

Good to hear your doctor listened to you! Hope you and all of us will have a very creative 2019!

Nina Marie said...

You know sometimes I forget that people actually read my blog - grin!!! Thank you so much for the support and well wishes. LeAnn I totally thought of you when I've read some of your posts to the list and such. I would highly recommend you talk to your doctor. I am feeling so much better and I think once I start exercising it will be just that much better. Thanks again everyone!

Shelina (formerly known as Shasta) said...

I am so glad you are feeling better and are getting help! I know I started crying for minor frustrations when I was going through menopause.

Norma Schlager said...

I think that doctors are much more attuned to depression these days. I know that when I go for my annual checkup they ask questions or you fill out a questionnaire about whether you are feeling sad or depressed. Maybe it's my age, much older than you. Anyway I am glad that yours was diagnosed and that you are recovering. And, yes, we are all inspired by your wonderful blog each week, giving us a chance to share our work and see other blogs that we may have missed.
Merry Christmas!