Thanks for all of the comments. Keep them coming. You guys are great!
I know from experience that we can learn a lot from each another. Many of the women in my eating disorder therapy group years ago were good role models for how to have fun. While I never quite jumped in back then, I did hold onto the inspiration they gave me. And now, I can truly say that fun is a regular and required part of my life. Over the weekend, I went out to eat with friends. (Yes, I consider this fun.) I went hiking. And --- since Ed and I are officially over --- I even had a real date. All fun!
I continue to be amazed by how much my life has changed with Ed no longer around. Don’t get me wrong. My life is not all fun and games, but today, I can deal with life on life’s terms. As a recovered person, I feel my feelings, and sometimes they don’t feel wonderful. But at least, I feel them. And that is wonderful. Another wonderful thing is that I don’t have to fear feelings and run to Ed for help. Feelings do pass in time --- if we experience them. (I used to not believe this, but it is true.)
Yesterday, I felt a little sad about normal thirty-something-single-woman stuff. So I felt it. And then I called a friend, and we went hiking. By the end of the hike, my spirits were lifted. Connecting with others is always helpful to me. That is one reason I love the idea of blogging. We can all stay connected. So let’s do just that!
Love ya,
Jenni
Thanks for the inspiration--I had a really bad day and after reading your blog I decided I should go hang out with a friend and "stay connected" with the real world and I felt so much better afterwards! Thanks for the never-ending inspiration and encouragement!
Posted by: Bambi413 | January 26, 2009 at 07:18 PM
You're so right! It's so easy when you're having a "bad food day" to decide to hibernate and isolate yourself and resist interacting with anyone until you feel "cleansed" and renewed and "allowed" to re-enter into the world. I'm going to try really hard to keep remembering the importance of staying connected!
Posted by: Laura | January 26, 2009 at 09:50 PM
Thanks for your great comments. I love hearing from you!
Jenni
Posted by: Jenni Schaefer | January 27, 2009 at 07:18 AM
This site discusses the importance of staying in the moment and living in the present while addressing eating disorder recovery, www.mindfullness.com I hope some of you find it helpful!
Posted by: Sara | January 28, 2009 at 08:30 AM