2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
It's been about 4 years since I posted to this journal. In that time, we had another baby boy (now 2.5), Chris graduated, got a job and then another job and he is finally happy in his career, at age 40. Chris was diagnosed with Bipolar and has worked really hard to become stable and figure out his meds. Chris and I have both had some therapy off and on and continued to work hard on our marriage. We are happy together. I've taken a low dose of Lexapro since my post-partum anxiety from Thomas became so intense and I'm so so thankful. I'm very stable these days and mostly happy and balanced. I became a partner in my company and have developed hundreds more apartments and homes in those years, still traveling to Chicago, Indianapolis, Columbus and Dayton about once a month - a mix that works for us to allow me such incredible flexibility when I'm home. My last living grandparent died. We bought a home. I had gastric bypass surgery and have lost 90 lbs. Oliver was diagnosed with ADD and Anxiety disorder, he's now thriving with some supports in 2nd grade. Thomas is the happiest manic 4 year old preschool kid ever. I've developed some very amazing friendships. My siblings are all pretty good, in their own spots. I ache for my brother to find a husband. My parents have had a rough couple of years. My dad has been in a recovery program and while it sucks that he needed it, I'm proud of him for working the steps. My mom has had a back surgery and both knees replaced and is working hard, but has been so weak and fragile for years. I am hopeful in the year ahead she can be strong enough to be my mom again and care for me. I'm not sure if I'll find the stamina to keep up with journaling again, but maybe. I've started attending Overeaters Anonymous meetings and find there is something really incredible for me in that possibility. I'm a sugar addict through and through, so maybe I need my own 12 steps. I'm 37 in a couple weeks.