I’ve read a number of bloggers who have chosen themes or goals for the year. These are usually personal improvement or character-building things like “grow closer to God” and “get more organized.” It became clear this winter, in the pit of depression, that I needed to take on a life-change project too: to fashion a…

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After I wrote last week’s post, Lift Up the Downcast, I thought of a few more things that are important to consider when trying to overcome a difficult time in your life. Go see your doctor. Get a physical to check for any physical problems, and talk to him or her about how you are…

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We’ve all seen the commercials: “Depression hurts.” “Do you have trouble concentrating or making decisions? ___ [drug] can help.” “Depression can make you feel like you have to wind yourself up to get through the day.” “Depression can take so much out of you.” Can I just say that all of that is true? I…

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Remembering is exhausting… and so is grieving. I noticed this in October, the one-year anniversary of our loss of Ellie. The whole month was weighed down by a thick heavy blanket. It hinders vision, movement, and joy. I had the foresight to take time off from work, to allow myself the extra time needed to…

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We’ve listened to Selah since a friend introduced us to their music just before Ellie was born. Ellie LOVED their music. I’ll never forget watching her “dance” in her wheelchair to their rousing renditions of old gospel favorites, or her ear-to-ear grin when Scott and I would sing their songs together. “Glory” (track 3 on…

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Next week would have been a milestone birthday for Ellie — ten years old. I share a birth month with her — we were born a week apart. For eight years we shared a birthday party, and I really enjoyed celebrating together with her. I’m at a bit of a loss as to how to…

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