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I’ve been blessed to share my adoption journey with all of you for the last 21 months. You walked me through all the paperwork; helped me find productive things to do during the excruciating wait; went on a virtual trip with me to meet the kids; celebrated with me when the adoption was finalized; and helped me through the post-adoptive transition. You listened as I catalogued my day to day issues with PTSD the whole Pee Saga, behavioral and emotional issues. When my oldest was diagnosed with epilepsy, you supported me. When my mom passed away, you wrote me notes and posted your condolences.
This last year, with my son’s new diagnosis (though he is doing well now!), and being thrown without warning, into my mother’s diagnosis of terminal cancer, has taken its toll on this old bird. I need to be a mindful, in-the-moment parent – the whole reason we adopted in the first place. The stress of this last year has caught up with me, and I’m having headaches and migraines, often daily. My old friend, Clinical Depression, is knocking at my door, and often creeps in, like the uninvited guest she is.
Thus, I need to take care of myself. Rarely do I ever knit for myself; and generally spend my birthday and anniversary gifts shopping for the house, never me. I usually put my family first, and now, in order to do that, I’ve finally faced the fact, I need to put my own oxygen mask on first, and scale back on many of my outside commitments – writing for AdoptionBlogs being one.
I will miss you. I will miss your comments and support. I hope I’ve made some small impact here in this corner of cyber-space, as you have in my life. You can certainly keep up with me – look me up on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn. I’m there, though certainly not as often as I have been. But, if you need to know All Things Stro, you can get your dose of me there. I hope you will, and I hope you will keep me posted as to how you are faring on this journey of ours as well.
Photo Credit: Marie Stroughter
I’m so sad. I’m losing my two favorite bloggers in a month. I wish you and your family well. Thank you so much for being such a blessing. God’s peace and grace be with you always.
Awwwww! You are so sweet!!! I think I’m the blessed one because you’ve been such an encouragement! ((((hugs))))