Good morning ladies,

I haven't read Jane's blog yet, but definitely will as soon as I'm finished writing.

Guess what Eagle? My birthday is in July also. July 17, as a matter of fact. I say that I don't believe in astrology, but do seem to have met many women (in groups) etc. who are very sensitive, have depression challenges and are Cancers!

Eagle, you are very sensitive, you are very caring, and you've been caretaking someone for what sounds like two years. That's the same amount of time I spent caretaking my dad and then my very best, lifelong friend. I'm sure that you, just like I did, put your heart and most of your energy into these loving acts.

But, caretaking is draining and then there is the grief that follows. I think it's a very good idea for you to keep seeing that therapist, if you like her. (I'm still hunting for a long-term one.) If she seems too expensive, could you ask her if she goes by a sliding scale? My old therapist, who now wants to be my therapist again, does that for me because he doesn't take insurance.

Also, I went to a Hospice support group after my dad died. In our county, Hospice divides it's groups into the type of death and age of participant. In other words, I went to a group for Adult Children who have lost a parent. This was a very big help to me.

I'm wondering if Hospice operates in your neck of the woods. If so, I would urge you to participate in one of their support groups. You could make some friends there, too. Or does a nearby hospital have a support group for grieving people?

Well, I have to go see the "medicine doctor" so I have to get off of here.

Hang on Eagle, you've been through something like this before and come out of it. Write me anytime. At my e-mail address, if you like.

Much love goes to you from Maryland today and always.

Emily

Emily,

Your post has more 'energy' today...yeah!!!!! Hope it is a good day!

Yea, it does Jane! I'm taking it cautiously. Taking what I can get even if it's a quarter or half of a day. Looking for the good. Talking to myself a great deal, too. I'm telling myself that I've made it through depressions before and that I'll make it through, once again.

So, you are so right, Jane Carroll! I do feel much more like the old me. By the way, I love the hat you are wearing in your picture. I love hats. Also, they protect you from the sun, blocking the possibility of new and deeper wrinkles!

Love,
Emily

Emily,

Thanks on the hat...it's sort of a bright pink...the picture was taken on one of the most fun evenings of my life...we had a bridal shower for my youngest daughter that afternoon...so both the girls were in town...I think we knew that our lives were changing...so we savored every minute of it...we laughed and played...and took so many pictures...5 rolls I think...we all took turns wearing the hat...we took crazy pictures of my conservative daughter modeling her new lingere...over her jeans...no less...anyway...early the next morning we had triple prints made of everything...and then they were on their way...

I'm glad you're having some fun moments...
Jane