Updates

Since writing this post in which I shared about an episode of panic resulting from poor self-care and hormone imbalance, people are still writing to check in on me and ask how I'm doing and I'm continually in awe of the kindness of people I've never met.

I came across the above photograph while searching through my "random" photo file looking for an image to piggyback on today's post (I love combining visual elements with my words which is how my art journaling was born).

I took this photo last June from a bridge overlooking a stream that runs along the campus of Gianluca's college. 

The second I saw it, I knew it was a perfect metaphor for where I am now - endeavoring to remain grounded, steady and unperterbed, while the current of life rushes all around me.

My self-care program is going well and I'm feeling better than I have in about a year which I owe to being diligent with my nutrition.  I am taking a pile of vitamins everyday including the amino acid 5htp which I think has been an enormous boost to my brain chemistry.   An added bonus to this healthy living is that I've dropped 8 pounds just from cutting out sugar, wheat gluten and caffeine.  That alone is giving me renewed energy.

Another sign that I'm back to my old self - or better - is the joy I felt in my heart when we took Gianluca to college last week.  No tears.  None.  He even asked why I wasn't crying!  I just felt so happy for him and knew that he was where we was supposed to be at this time in his life.

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I have a new goal.  I love to row and bought a Concept2 high-dollar rowing machine two years ago that has been terribly ignored for ages.  I dragged it out of its hiding place this week,  dusted it off and gave it a go.  It still works and so do I. 

I have decided to participate in a rowing competition that happens at Bucknell University every February called Erg Armageddon.   I'm waiting for the 2010 dates to come out, but it's usually around March 1st.   I've wanted to do this for several years but always thought of it too late to do any serious training.  I figure if I begin training now, six months should be enough time to get strong enough to tear up those young college students come spring!  

OptomisticPessimist will enjoy hearing this news.  She knows I've been wanting to train for an athletic competition and lovingly encouraged me to do the NYC Marathon with her.  I decided I'd rather live.

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Have I mentioned how amazing you all are my dear blogging friends?  Every one of you who make comments on my blog and send me personal email notes.  It warms my heart and makes me know that the Universe is indeed a safe and beautiful place if it brings people like each of you into my life.

Just yesterday I received these beautiful moo cards from Spudballoo along with a lovely "glad you're feeling better" note.  I mean, really, you just don't find that kind of humanity everyday.

 

So yes, I'm feeling better and back on my restless feet, ready to tackle new projects.  

I've even got another Fragrant Friday ready for this week!