December 29 – Describe a defining moment or series of events that has affected your life this year. (Author: Kathryn Fitzmaurice)
In 2010 i went an entire year without suffering any significant depression. For the first time since 2005 my mind felt almost normal. I experienced all the highs and lows, but none of them took me to any extremes. My grandmother passed away followed by my grandfather committing suicide – i was incredibly sad and traumatized, but i was okay. Shane and i battled through a very emotional reconciliation with tons of super highs and lows and i was okay. Life just happened and i lived it. And it was awesome.
December 30 – Gift Prompt: Gift. This month, gifts and gift-giving can seem inescapable. What’s the most memorable gift, tangible or emotional, you received this year? (Author: Holly Root)
This is hard. I got so much out of 2010. I’ve already told you about. Running, love, friendship, travel, hope, inspiration. I would have to say, my house. In August 2009, as a single mother, i purchased a home. Two weeks later it burnt down. The next six months i spent doing all those horribly stressful things that go on when you build a house and deal with insurance. It was difficult and i really mourned the loss of the little 100 year old house i bought. At the end of February 2010 i moved into my brand new house. It is completely me and perfectly reflects everything i love in a home. It is cozy and simple. It is kid-friendly and surrounded by amazing neighbours. And now it houses six of us. This house, the amazing insurance i had and the wonderful contractors who built it were an amazing gift.
December 31 – What central story is at the core of you, and how do you share it with the world?
Hope. I think it’s hope. I share it as best i can whenever i can. I smile. I laugh. I cry. I look forward to the future. I am vulnerable. I am strong.
Thank you 2010. You were amazing.
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I really enjoyed your go at reverb 10, Jess. Also, very refreshing to see 2010 being called amazing for once. You’ve really blossomed since I started reading your blog and I hope you and your family continue thriving and enjoying life. Happy new year.
Your life is an example of how rich the twists and turns of life can be : ) You DO tell a story of hope …. may all the people who need to see your example find your blog this year.