Holidays are a tough time of year for most people, I am sorry you have been having to deal with a cold on top of everything else. Keep taking it a day at a time and you will eventually get through.

Best Wishes,

Kristen

PS I take Zicam at the onset of a cold and I literally have not had a full blown cold in probably 3 or 4 years due to it. It really does work! I know its a day late and a dollar short this time...

Leah

A cold can truly be miserable especially when it drags on and on. I am like Kristen in that I now take Zicam and it really seems to work.

It's okay to get emotional and show some feelings, and to cry, too. I cried one evening last week about my after stroke life and how much I miss just being able to walk. We went Christmas shopping yesterday and thank goodness for one of the store's baby strollers. I had to end up using it so I could walk and keep my balance. It slowed us down some but I did spend over four hours walking and shopping. I was so tired afterwards that it felt good to get home, turn on the gas fireplace, and relax.

It sounds like you have your holiday plans firmed up. That's super.

Take care.

Stessie

You have certainly had a rough few weeks. Funerals and anniversaries, birthdays etc of those we have loved who are no more can shake us emotionally. Even happy times can remind us of those who are gone. I guess that is one reason I like to review the year, say my goodbyes to those who have gone and see what joy I can find when I look to the future.

I am no Pollyanna so that attutude looks good but the practice is much harder. I have just lost my Unce Don in Canada last Thursday, he was the last of my Dad's family the youngest by ten years. I am awaiting news of a dear friend in her last days with cancer. To think of that at this time of the season of what is supposed to be "good news" can make me down but I try to think of the good times we shared and be thankful that I have had Uncle Don and my friend for so long and we have shared and enjoyed many good times together.

You mention that you need a therapist but maybe in the meantime you just need to sit down with old photo albums and enjoy the past for the happy times it contains. That old song about counting your bessings is one remedy for the "blues" that I use. And I read the blogs here and commisserate with others who are having a more difficult struggle than I am right now.

(((Hugs))) from Sue.

Leah,

You've had a rough go of it of late dear gal. I hope you're able to shake that cold/bronchitis once and for all. It's good that you did seek medical attention. For me, I've had ignored bronchitis turn into walking pnuemonia. Now I'm susceptible to walking pneumonia errrrrrrr.

Feel better and enjoy the holidays the best you can.

Leah:

I hate cold too. It can make you feel far worse off than things actually are. I am glad you are enjoying I will not be broken book by Jerry white. it's wonderful book. life is full of series of good days and bad days. trick is to remember all these days will pass too.

Asha

hi leah,

that cold has got to go! i am glad the new meds are working. i believe it is cool to blog when we are up or down. you know, i found talking to someone about my feelings post stroke really helped. talking to a family member/spouse can be hard on you both. just remember to go with your gut as far as the psycholgist being right for you. i tried two before i found a good fit.

your approach to christmas sounds so sane! good for you in taking care of yourself. now, stay out of the gym for a bit and get your strength back. cheers! :friends: kathy