In reference to my recent post on isolation, I wanted to write an update on my mindset.  The past two weeks have been mostly rainy and cold.  Couple that with 2 weeks of a slow schedule and you have a feeling of isolation.  I have prayed and prayed for God to help me through this and He has been faithful as always. 

I began to realize that this same time last year I was feeling the same way and even began contemplating putting my kids in a Christian school.   I feel like God allowed me to recognize the fact that this time of year has an effect on me.   So I called a friend of mine, who thinks much more creatively than me and sure enough, she filled in the gaps of my black and white mind. 

Her first suggestion was to take homeschooling out of the mix, as far as the isolation is concerned.  Any other time of the year, I am 100% sure that this is God's place for my children and my role in life - to teach my kids at home.   It's only this season that I began to question what we're doing.  Ok - so that is great advice.  I love having my kids at home with me.  I need to remove that from the equation.

Next she gave me some great ideas for getting out of the house at this time of the year and to focus more on finding a play group for my 8 year old (with moms for me) and not so much focus on my teen, who already has social activities and invitations galore!   That was an eye opener, because, most of our going seems to be about getting the teen to his next event!

Anyway, after more talk on what kind of field trips, activities, etc., I felt so much better and knew that in order to combat this time of the year blues, I will have to be creative and active.  I've tried it and amazingly, when I'm busy and occupied, I have less time to dwell on the isolated feelings.

I'm still praying daily (mostly Philippians 4:6-7) for God to calm my anxious heart and He is still faithfully working.  

I hope someone reads this who has had the same problem.  Be blessed. Joy comes in the morning!

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Posted by domesticangel

You commented on my blog speaking of depression and then I read this update. GOOD FOR YOU!!!! for finding a way thru with God's and others help. It truly is the ONLY way. I am the "Queen" of depression and it has taken me YEARS to recognize certain 'triggers' (I usually despise 'psychobabble' words, but this one fits better than most), how to recognize them, plan for them and the OVERCOME them. Good for you that you are well on your way! I have an article on depression (well, several, but the one I am referring to is "The Black Hole of Depression" or something like that) over at http://www.titus2menandwomen.org You will find it under "articles" and then under my name - Denise Lower - there are a few others there also....bear in mind that it has been years since I wrote those and since our lives are liquid, some things I wrote may have changed slightly, but all in all, the foundation is the same. Hope it helps, if you still need it. Just some practical advice from someone who's 'been there, done that, bought the t-shirt and then burned it!'
Denise aka The Domestic Angel
ps. you might like my Proverbs 31 reflection over at my other blog. http://www.homesteadblogger.com/domesticangel/

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Posted by domesticangel

I've tagged you with a book tag. Kind of fun. Not long.
http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/domesticangel/
Denise aka The Domestic Angel

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Posted by cahanbury

Knowing is half the battle, they say. I think it's normal, especially at this time of year, to get sort of burnt out and blah feeling. I think it is, anyway. I hope things are improving.

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