New Year's Eve

December 31, 2016 ~ As we wind down 2016 and ramp up into 2017, it's time to talk. I'm hoping that as you start out your new year, you'll be able to let go of some of the ickiness of the last year and focus on the good things that were part of your lives.

A few for me:

~We added a new baby to the family.

~We put over 30,000 miles on the car traveling to the State Hospital and back, with not even one automobile failure or near accident. That seems to be something of a miracle, and I am incredibly grateful for it.

~We haven't won every battle with schizophrenia, but it feels like there's still hope for winning the war.

~I've met some amazing people - many of them mothers like me - who have given me courage to keep hoping for a bright future.

I'd love to hear the good things that have happened in your lives this year. Feel free to post below! We could all use hearing the good stuff.

I'm not much into resolutions. I think we ought to try to be a little better every day of the year, not just on New Year's Day. But if you're one who feels like a goal is necessary, I hope you'll cut yourself some slack and make it a goal you can obtain. Go easy on yourself. You're amazing, just like you are. Maybe a good resolution is to make a point to look around you and notice those who need a smile. Look for an opportunity to lift someone up. Take action if something more drastic is necessary. Keep the number to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline handy, and don't be afraid to use it, or to give it to someone who should (800-273-8255). And take care of yourself, too!

This is no easy thing we're asked to do.

Happy New Year - to you and yours!