I read a post somewhere about the person involved describing their depression as a form of hibernation and I though it was quite apt. I've been away from here for the longest time ever, sure I've taken a month off here and there but not nearly eight months! For the early part of the year I was busy finishing up my final piece for my red tent doula qualification, my piece was entitled "Unravelling birth stories using creative writing and art therapy." I had a final session with my doula mentor and my final piece was well received and a certificate was duly despatched.
Somewhere around the middle of February I noticed that things were slightly off and not only did I withdraw from various online connections (this place included) I was really having to force myself to get dressed, have a shower and do basic daily things each day. I had a lovely appointment with my GP and we both reached the same conclusion that I was suffering from mild depression. A plan of action was devised which included talking therapy and a series of online 'Zoom' sessions based on well being and gratitude. I'm pleased to report I've made it through the other side and back to my usual self :-)
Despite having some really tough days we have had a lot of good things happen in these intervening few months so I though I would share a small selection of photos capturing this time:
Eva and her family were in London for the third time and we finally got to meet them in person!
I was really proud of myself dealing with London traffic. We were staying in Guildford and since the A3 into London was closed due to a road traffic accident. I literally had to go around all the houses! Eva cooked some beautiful food that catered for all of our dietary requirements which is no mean feat for sure :-)
A Flying Visit from Sr Emma
Confirmation Weekend
Pip was confirmed on Pentecost Sunday (June 5th). She chose Chiara Badano as her confirmation saint. Dave's mum stopped for the weekend and our longstanding Little Flower's friend Kara was Pip's confirmation sponsor. Sadly photos were not allowed in the church but some official snaps were taken, we are just awaiting a copy. We did however have a really lovely day and that is all that matters.
Party Food
Pip and her friend Rosey (Kara's eldest daughter).
A post Pip hospital treat the following day and before Nanna returned home.
The Annual Fairy Day
Every year we celebrate a midsummer fairy day for Pip since her actual birthday is literally just before Christmas. Her best friend spends the day with us and they have a whole heap of fun :-) Once again ETSY came up trumps and they did a 'Night at The Museum' escape room which then earned them both a copy of the Hogwarts Baking Book. Their task was to make Hagrid's Rock Cakes for an after tea dessert and the kitchen survived two giggly teenage girls - thankfully not much mess amidst the mayhem!
