This is my 600th post on Pines Lake Redhead. I started this blogging gig two and a half years ago when I decided to use this medium as a way to chronicle my spinal fusion surgery and recovery. I have since removed the posts containing personal medical information. So technically, I’ve written more than 600 posts but we’ll keep the official count where it is.
When I first titled my blog, I must have known in the back of my mind that I would continue blogging past my recovery. Good thing I selected the name “Pines Lake Redhead” instead of something like, “My XLIF Experience” so my blog could grow and evolve with me.
On the occasion of my 600th blog post, now is as good a time as any to pause and reflect a little bit. This has been a very bumpy year for me. For the past twelve months I’ve battled depression. Really bad depression that came with all sorts of labels: clinical depression, major depressive disorder, and treatment resistant depression. No matter what it’s called, it sucks. My back surgery was the worst thing I’ve even been through in my entire life. A year of depression is second. Oh, and let’s not forget the 10 weeks of Epstein-Barr virus this summer. Yea, that was fun.
But things are looking way up. I’m so pleased with how this year is rounding out. I really, truly feel better. I’m definitely on the mend. My family loves me. I’m grateful every day when I look at my husband’s sweet face. Our sons have grown into wonderful, young men. Mr. A achieved his multi-year goal with his appointment to the Naval Academy. G-Man has almost reached his goal of being taller than me. This Christmas season I’ve decorated the way I wished, I made cookies & fudge, and I haven’t had a meltdown. To top it all off, I have the best haircut ever.
Then there’s YOU. All of you. Family, friends near and far, friends old and new, friends in real life, and bloggy buddies. You’ve stuck with me through ups and downs. You lifted me up when I needed it. You listened (read) when I needed to share. You gave me glimpses into your lives when I felt trapped inside my own. There has been laughter and tears… but mostly laughter. For all these things I am truly grateful. For you I am truly grateful. I give you my 600 Thanks.
6 comments:
So glad things are looking up and you're feeling much better. Here's to a healthy and happy 2011!
Wow! What a accomplishment! Here's to the next 600!
Into the valley of depression rode the six hundred. I'm glad you made it out!
Glad I could be "here" in the bloggy world when you needed it. Glad things are looking up too.
Been depressed, so I have a glimpse into what you went through. Glad you made it out the other side.
So happy to read this post, to appreciate just how high you have climbed this past year. Thanks for sharing your road with all of us. It is a privilege.
Congratulations, girl! I'm so happy I have met you. I always enjoy your posts, and of course, when I get to see you in person. Looking forward to this Sunday. I hope you know you can always call me if there's anything you need. :)
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