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It doesn't feel like the Christmas season to me. I think it is because of all the traveling I did this year... and that it sort of distorted time a bit for me... but I still feel like it ought to be autumn.
I don't dislike Christmas... but to be honest... it's never been my favorite holiday. When I was a kid... it seemed like it was an excuse for some people to behave rather badly... and it seemed to never end well. Perhaps it is just a distortion of my memories... but it's there none-the-less.
BAJ has certainly done his best to make the holidays nicer... and having the kids always made it certainly better... but I still tend to get "down" at this time of year.

I know that I am not alone. And while knowing that doesn't necessarily solve the problem... it does offer some reassurance. Plus... there are lots of helpful informational sites out there... with hints and helps such as:

1. Stay Active. Get enough exercise and fresh air. Eat healthy.
2. Start new traditions. Understand what works for you and what doesn't.
"Starting new traditions is a good way to lift your spirits and focus your energy outside yourself."
3. Be aware of your family's dynamics. If shopping with Uncle Fester always makes you sad... don't do it!
4. Don't swallow the hype. "Christmas isn’t about gorgeous decorations, unbelievably happy families, and expensive gifts. Don’t fall into the trap of trying to be perfect or feel ecstatically happy. The stores, commercials, malls, Martha Stewart shows and radio advertisements turn Christmas into a merchandising cash cow – they also make Christmas about being flawless and full of glitter. Don’t fall into that pit of despair, which will send you headlong into an even deeper Christmas depression."
5. Don't be afraid to seek professional help. If you or a loved one are suffering... get outside help.


*photo by Elaine A. Russell

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------> photo by Elaine A. Russell


Wednesday is a day I tend to indulge in some guilty pleasures. I usually do some errands and generally drive around the city... just checking things out.

I spent alot of time at La Montanita with my daughter... checking out all the yummy food, people watching... and generally loving the organic Guatemala coffee. Got a gorgeous rose for my hubby. Got burgers for dinner. And now, have settled in for a night of senseless TV watching. I know. Seems simple, somewhat stupid even, maybe.... but it is a nice break.
I've been having alot of trouble sleeping.... or rather, I can't sleep at night, and have been sleeping during the heat of the day instead. I feel mentally and physically exhausted... and I can only suppose that I am still trying to catch up with traveling back and forth to PA still.
I also have occasional issues with depression.... and seem to be in a "down" period right now. That said... at least I am aware of it... and am trying to overcome it by forcing myself to get out and about today.

About my photo for the day: the YODA dude is a little "toy" figurine of my husband's. I placed him on top of the wall that surrounds my yard so that he looks as if he is high on top of a mountain.... ready and able to conquer the world! From this vantage point... he makes me feel a little more optimistic... and hopefully people who see it will as well.

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*photos by Elaine A. Russell

"If the sight of the blue skies fills you with joy, if a blade of grass springing up in the fields has power to move you, if the simple things of nature have a message that you understand, rejoice, for your soul is alive..." ~Eleonora Duse (1859 - 1924)

I have been rather despondent as of late. Part of it is a change in my medications (*or more accurately, having been without them for several months.. and going back on them), feeling overweight and out of shape, and having been through the great turmoil of life that is my family...

I am trying very hard to change what I can and be as optimistic as possible.

Some days are easier than others.

However, today was my dear hubby's birthday. And after dinner we went on a drive... chasing the sunset as far west as it let us go before it faded into the hills. It was awesome.

I have no answers to the depression that fills some of my days... I have no words of wisdom. I only know that I must keep on doing what I love... and hope that everything works out in the best way possible. Art and the love of my family are what is currently keeping me going...

What do you do when despair knocks on your door?

Things are looking up ?

----------------------------------------photo by Elaine A. Russell

So (finally) my son's depression seems to be lifting a little. He is taking 2 different classes at CNM, and seems to be enjoying them both. AWESOME>

My family is riddled with alcoholics, drug users, compulsive personalities, and depression... I was just hoping it would skip a generation or two. That said, I can certainly give him examples of what not to do....myself included.

He is very much a perfectionist, and doesn't like change... although he is in a position where he WANTS change badly. So.. I am sure it is a very difficult time for him.

That said... I am very happy for him to be enjoying what he is doing again. It's like the sun peaking through the clouds on a stormy day.

mondays suck majorly

------------------------------------------photo by Elaine Russell

Photo of screaming BATBOY-- on the cover of one of my favorite books to browse through.
Mondays suck. In fact, they seem to suck worse than any other day of the week. I am not sure if it's simply because it's after a potentially fun weekend.. in which case, you'd think the fun would carry you through until at least wednesday...
My son has a problem with depression. It's only been for a few months, but some days it feels like an eternity. I try to talk to him, and usually all I get are shoulder shrugs and non-verbals. Or dirty looks for even daring to ask "how are you doing?"
When he was little, he adored bats. And so.. the pic reminds me of him when he was happier... and constantly goofing around. I hope he feels better soon.