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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 25 of 25. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by white rabbit on April 9, 2003, at 15:05:57
Was just sitting here sulking, wondering what the hell I'm going to do now. While my bipolar illness went untreated, I cut this huge destructive path through my life. I alienated my husband and most of my friends and family. I lost my job, I have no money, my husband wants me out of the house and out of his life. So I was feeling sorry for myself.
But my life doesn't suck, I mean, not really. If I want to get realistic about it, my life is actually pretty swell. Here are 10 things that I'm thankful for today:
* It's chilly outside, but I'm inside and warm.
* My son is at work and not fighting in Iraq.
* I'm not physically ill or handicapped.
* I do have a decent car and job skills.
* I'm not hungry.
* I'm not pregnant.
* I'm taking effective medication and feeling better all the time.
* I'm not drinking.
* I'm not hospitalized or jailed.
* I have a good mind when it's working properly.So, it's not that bad.
-Gracie
Posted by hollygirl on April 9, 2003, at 15:33:53
In reply to 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by white rabbit on April 9, 2003, at 15:05:57
Gracie,
Thank you for your uplifting post. I have a hard time being thankful for all the good things in my life and too often I focus on the negative. Your post was a good reminder to me that even when everything seems dark and gray, there is always a little sunshine somewhere :)> Was just sitting here sulking, wondering what the hell I'm going to do now. While my bipolar illness went untreated, I cut this huge destructive path through my life. I alienated my husband and most of my friends and family. I lost my job, I have no money, my husband wants me out of the house and out of his life. So I was feeling sorry for myself.
>
> But my life doesn't suck, I mean, not really. If I want to get realistic about it, my life is actually pretty swell. Here are 10 things that I'm thankful for today:
>
> * It's chilly outside, but I'm inside and warm.
> * My son is at work and not fighting in Iraq.
> * I'm not physically ill or handicapped.
> * I do have a decent car and job skills.
> * I'm not hungry.
> * I'm not pregnant.
> * I'm taking effective medication and feeling better all the time.
> * I'm not drinking.
> * I'm not hospitalized or jailed.
> * I have a good mind when it's working properly.
>
> So, it's not that bad.
> -Gracie
Posted by Greg on April 9, 2003, at 15:37:33
In reply to 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by white rabbit on April 9, 2003, at 15:05:57
Gracie,
I know we haven't spoken in a long time, but it dawns on me that you left one thing off your list.
You're one hell of a good person.
In my humble opinion of course.
Hang in there,
Greg
Posted by fi on April 9, 2003, at 16:21:01
In reply to 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by white rabbit on April 9, 2003, at 15:05:57
well done for being able to see that side of things too.
Anything that gets a sense of proportion is a good idea. Doesnt mean denying that it is tough having psychological symptoms, but at least there are some other things *dont* need to worry about!
Fi
Posted by noa on April 9, 2003, at 16:46:13
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today » white rabbit, posted by hollygirl on April 9, 2003, at 15:33:53
Yes, Gracie. You are right that it is important to stop and reflect like that once in a while.
One thing that I think of often is about running water, hot and cold. I think about how there are many places in the world where it is routine, especially for rural women, to have to trek to draw water every day. And the water may not be so clean and healthy.
I come home to my modest abode, but it is adequate, relatively affordable, and safe housing. I get in the shower, and amazingly, water comes out in abundance at more or less the temperature range I select. And yes, I am warm and dry and it is cold and wet outside.
I go to the market and before my eyes are rows and rows of beautiful, robust fruits and vegetables, with so much choice for me, and all manner of foods to suit my whims.
I have nearly instant access to a world of information at my fingertips, and acess to an amazing support group filled with inspiring people.
I have medications, though not perfect, and the insurance to cover the bulk of the cost. I have my fish oil!
I have my family, warts and all, but I have them and when push comes to shove we help each other out.
I have use of my legs and arms, and my brain is still functioning pretty well, despite what its been through.
I usually have a pretty handy parking space, unless I get home very late at night!!
I have some pretty terrific friends.
Posted by sienna on April 9, 2003, at 18:54:44
In reply to 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by white rabbit on April 9, 2003, at 15:05:57
1. i have 3 beyootiful kitty cats that purr and love me.
2. i have a job for the summer that is mostly no stressful and outside with kids an animals
3. i have doctors and threrrpists that are nice and helpful and trying makeing me better
4. my parents love me and help when they can
5. im havbe a good sense of humor and good outlook on life
6. im able to afford coffee every single mornign. ; )
7. there is theis board ia can meet ppeople aned write to them and theyre *rad.
8. i have a A in all my classes at school.
9. my best friend lives next door and shes beaudacious and sweet
10. there is cute boy.* = radical
love sienna
Posted by white rabbit on April 9, 2003, at 20:30:44
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today » white rabbit, posted by hollygirl on April 9, 2003, at 15:33:53
Posted by justyourlaugh on April 9, 2003, at 21:36:36
In reply to 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by white rabbit on April 9, 2003, at 15:05:57
1 my kids are happy
2 im not drunk today
3 im not pregnant(i like that one gracie)
4 my husband can still make me laugh
5 and he still tries
6 my family and i live in canada
7 the beatles
8 fresh clean 3 year old, in new feetie pajamais
9 the kids bedtime
10 fresh linins on my bed..
good night irean
Posted by Tabitha on April 10, 2003, at 4:57:25
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by justyourlaugh on April 9, 2003, at 21:36:36
1-coffee
2-coffee (2nd cup)
3-clean underwear
4-relatively calm workday
5-potato chips
6-wearing my birthday present
7-canceled plans to clear up weekend
8-frozen chicken patties
9-aspercreme
10-no major nagging worriessome things I could do without
1-forgot to watch the bachelor
2-worked too late
3-pile of unfinished paperwork
4-looming tax deadline
5-cat hair on favorite towel
Posted by WorryGirl on April 10, 2003, at 13:22:49
In reply to 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by white rabbit on April 9, 2003, at 15:05:57
> But my life doesn't suck, I mean, not really. If I want to get realistic about it, my life is actually pretty swell. Here are 10 things that I'm thankful for today:
Thanks Gracie, I needed to hear that!
* The Bradford pears and cherry trees are blooming
* I ran 3 miles yesterday
* My 19 month old didn't have a diarrhea blowout today (at least not yet)
* Unlike my mother at my age, I have a car
* Takeout taxi delivery has 10 restaurants to choose from
* I don't smoke (and my husband only smokes outside)
* I have a loving, non-abusive husband
* I'm not physically handicapped
* I don't live in Iraq
* I have a good mind when it's working properly (I like this one)
Posted by justyourlaugh on April 10, 2003, at 13:32:58
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today » white rabbit, posted by WorryGirl on April 10, 2003, at 13:22:49
how do i ask "bradford"
you mean home of the willy the carrot and the village inn
jyl
Posted by WorryGirl on April 10, 2003, at 13:50:43
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today » WorryGirl, posted by justyourlaugh on April 10, 2003, at 13:32:58
> how do i ask "bradford"
> you mean home of the willy the carrot and the village inn
> jylThey are a type of pear tree. I'm not sure of all the places they grow. I'm in Georgia.
Posted by noa on April 10, 2003, at 16:18:08
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by Tabitha on April 10, 2003, at 4:57:25
> 3-clean underwear
Absolutely!!!
Posted by noa on April 10, 2003, at 16:20:37
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today » white rabbit, posted by WorryGirl on April 10, 2003, at 13:22:49
> * I ran 3 miles yesterday
Holy Mama!! Amazing!! You've impressed me for life, girl! With all you're going through, how do you do it?
> * I don't smoke
Yes, I'm thankful for that, too. I have enough problems!
Posted by WorryGirl on April 10, 2003, at 18:16:49
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by noa on April 10, 2003, at 16:20:37
> > * I ran 3 miles yesterday
>
> Holy Mama!! Amazing!! You've impressed me for life, girl! With all you're going through, how do you do it?Thanks so much for your encouragement.
This is an accomplishment I'm proud of so far. I used to run track in high school, but it's been years since I did that. I hope I don't let myself down on this one. My babysitter found out she has breast cancer and will be starting chemo soon. To show my support I entered a 5K (sponsored by a breast cancer support group). My husband and family thought I was crazy to enter it but I thought why not? I know that exercise is supposed to help depression and mood swings, etc.
Well, a month and a half ago I got on my treadmill and since have worked my way to 3 miles (the 5K is around 3.1 miles). The last 2 weeks, though, I haven't exercised at all - I pulled a muscle and it was too painful. Plus, I was in a very low mood these past few weeks (pms).
Yesterday I ran outside instead of on my treadmill. It was grueling and I thought my chest would cave in. I was afraid I might be overdoing it but I somehow got through it. I knew I had to do it or I would be in no shape to run this thing in May. A million worrisome thoughts were racing through my mind; the running really gave me time to think - quite a release in a way.
If I can do this at least 2-3 times a week for the next few weeks I will be in pretty good shape for May 10th (when the race is scheduled). I don't expect to break any records, but at least my babysitter knows I'm supporting her, even if in a small way.
I really do feel better after I exercise. Getting motivated to do it is another story. I'm hoping to lose a few pounds of baby weight, too!
I don't know about you, but it's the small things that seem to help me along. Today, I was feeling pretty down in the dumps. I started my period and running was the last thing I wanted to do (and I won't today).
I really need more goals in my life. That's part of my problem I think. Being a stay at home mom doesn't really involve goals in a regular way. It's the same thing, day after day; house gets messed up, I clean it (or don't but should), it gets dirty again, etc. etc. etc. I change the diaper, the baby poops again. Small, mundane stuff that is necessary but boring.
Posted by noa on April 12, 2003, at 11:37:41
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today » noa, posted by WorryGirl on April 10, 2003, at 18:16:49
For today, April 12, 2003:
The sun is shinging and it is beautiful outside.
I am taking vacation time from work this week!!
The newspaper actually got delivered this morning without my having to call and complain.
I got plenty of sleep last night.
I managed to go a few hours without being tied up in knots about the job situation by just not thinking about it and distracting myself with other things.
Posted by justyourlaugh on April 12, 2003, at 11:51:04
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by noa on April 12, 2003, at 11:37:41
1. husband arrived home last night
2. kids can play outside
3. "a buck a beer"
4. potatoe chips
5. krissy is not in a coma
6. laundry is finished
7. buds on the trees
8. liona boyd
9. sun glasses
10. i cant hear the kids from in here!peace
jyl
Posted by Miller on April 12, 2003, at 13:16:23
In reply to 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by white rabbit on April 9, 2003, at 15:05:57
1. I still have a pulse
2. I have great internet friends on the Babble site
3. Hubby is out of town-as much ice cream as I can eat!!!
4. Finally found a Ccopy of "Waking up alive" that was recommended by someone here forever ago.
5. I am feeding my cat "treat food" while hubby is gone (another way to be defiant)
6. It feels like spring today so I may open the windows for some genuine air
7. I will change my sheets today and they won't be flannel
8. I see Phil and Lou are posting again. :)
9. I have an internet friend who makes me feel like I have a sister--Love that!! (Thanks Boo.)
10. I slept 12 hours last night.
Posted by justyourlaugh on April 12, 2003, at 13:33:16
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by Miller on April 12, 2003, at 13:16:23
that was a really nice one miller..
it made me smile:)
jyl
Posted by Miller on April 12, 2003, at 16:39:31
In reply to ty » Miller, posted by justyourlaugh on April 12, 2003, at 13:33:16
Boo,
You make me smile and feel as if I am not alone. If it wasn't for you in your caring and humor, who knows where I would be. :)
-Miller
Posted by leeran on April 12, 2003, at 18:47:15
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by Miller on April 12, 2003, at 13:16:23
1. My son made it safely to his destination (five states away) for spring break to see father (I get so nervous in the weeks leading up to his departure that I feel like a top ready to spin off the planet)
2. I’ve gone several hours without obsessing about my currently out-of-control acne
3. I found two items I thought I had lost (a little pillbox with my on the road supply of Xenical and Adderall, and a notebook I keep for scribbling down things before I forget them – AND both were retrieved from the floor in the backseat of the car without so much as an intervention from St. Anthony).
4. The shorts I wore ten years ago (and kept as a litmus test, or more accurately a cruel reminder of the 50 pounds I had gained) more or less fit today (although I wouldn’t dream of wearing them beyond the front door). Note, I have not lost fifty pounds, but that’s OH-kay.
5. The dog didn’t puke on the bed – or anywhere else for that matter.
6. The sunglasses I bought the other day for $9.99 really WERE $65.00 retail someplace else (a bargain can make my spirits soar).
7. It hasn’t rained yet – as predicted.
8. These stupid thongs I paid too much money for seem to be past the blister rubbing point (yikes, I just re-read this – I mean flip flop type thongs, not the other kind – ouch!).
9. My toes haven’t itched uncontrollably for 2+ weeks (this is a biggie).
10. We may go see a movie tonight and with any luck, we’ll get an aisle seat and I won’t have a panic attack (this is positive thinking in advance I suppose).
It’s not easy to think of ten things but by cracky, it IS cathartic.
Posted by noa on April 12, 2003, at 19:50:48
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by leeran on April 12, 2003, at 18:47:15
> 8. These stupid thongs I paid too much money for seem to be past the blister rubbing point (yikes, I just re-read this – I mean flip flop type thongs, not the other kind – ouch!).
I knew what you meant, but I was already laughing in anticipation of how this would be read!I'm not thrilled that a perfectly good word for footwear has been hijacked by the fashion industry for something so incredibly bizzare!
Posted by white rabbit on April 12, 2003, at 20:31:07
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by noa on April 12, 2003, at 19:50:48
1.) Starbucks chocolate-covered coffee beans
2.) Tickets for house tour tomorrow with a good friend
3.) Rogue tulip in front yard, came from nowhere
4.) My favorite pair of raggedy jeans, feel like jammies
5.) Burt's Bees Baby Bee Dusting Powder with puff, smells like babies and honey and clouds
6.) The T-top on my Nissan
7.) A good merlot (screw you doc, I'm going to find a psychiatrist who treats me like a person)
8.) Son kissed me on the cheek before he ran out the door
9.) Sat on the back steps in the sun and painted my toenails scarlet red
10.)Kept repeating to myself, "There IS life after divorce," until I almost sort of believed it.That's good enough.
-Gracie
Posted by WorryGirl on April 13, 2003, at 15:51:16
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by white rabbit on April 12, 2003, at 20:31:07
I'm really liking this...
1) Weather-wise couldn't have asked for a more perfect day - not a cloud in the sky.
2) Because of the weather the children are much less whiny.
3) Because of the weather I got some much-needed color on my face.
4) Planted some annuals.
5) My husband's going to throw some meat on the grill tonight, so no cooking for me - yippee!
6) I got 8 hours of sleep last night.
7) Talked to my mom last night and didn't argue or disagree about anything.
8) My period has officially stopped (it was a long, painful one, like usual).
9) Even if my legs look chunky, it was warm enough to wear shorts, and I did.
10) We had a lower phone bill than usual from switching our local service to AT&T (I hope this isn't considered advertising).
Posted by noa on April 14, 2003, at 18:33:57
In reply to Re: 10 things that I'm thankful for today, posted by WorryGirl on April 13, 2003, at 15:51:16
For Monday, April 14, 2003:
1. Another sunny, beautiful day--perfect weather.
2. I found my tax documents.
3. I made my bed today.*
4. I made progress cleaning the kitchen today.*
5. I'm stocked up on fish oil
5. I got more laundry done yesterday.*
6. The windows are open for fresh air, but the smell of new mulch that pervaded last week is gone!!
7. My plant on the windowsill is actually still alive!
8. I didn't have to go to work today.
9. I'm healthy today, and not depressed.
10. I don't have to go to work tomorrow or the next day or the day after that!
*when I read these items, it makes me sound like an old-fashioned housewife waiting for her turn on "Queen for a Day"!!
This is the end of the thread.
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