LIVING ROOM MEMORIES  125 

(December 23, 2007)

I’m still battling depression. Yesterday I had a great big list of things to do. Last chance to do laundry, clean, shop, and wrap. I didn’t know how I would get it all done. But my husband supported me wonderfully and helped throughout the day. There’s something about trying to do too much that deepens depression, though. By the time evening arrived I felt truly down.

What has upheld me over the past while is playing. Several weeks ago it was drawing and painting pictures for friends. Sudoku puzzles have also helped me feel content. And the game my husband and I play often, Ticket to Ride, has provided a good distraction. These activities have the added advantage of developing brain power.

I’ve had my Bible open to Philippians 4:6-8 a lot of the time: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. It’s when I thank God for my friends and all that is good in my life that my mood goes up. This has helped me tremendously over past weeks. Knowing that I’m loved by my friends – and by God – has brought brightness and peace.

The preparations are complete. I’m into the thick of Christmas now. Today we’ll celebrate with my husband’s family – eleven adults and five children. Tomorrow I’ll pick up my mom to stay with us for a couple of days. Christmas day my son and his wife are coming over. Boxing day we may also have a few people dropping in. Then I’ll prepare for Living Room, which will have its regular meeting this Friday.

It will be good to get back to normal, won’t it?

In the meantime, I do hope you will all have a happy time this Christmas. May God bless all of you.