Cake Waffles, Croquet, Legwarmers, and Poetry

I had a really hard time on Saturday night. I felt so bad physically and emotionally after I binged. I felt depressed and lonely and hurt and angry. Really angry. I know I share a lot on this blog, but I'm not even going to rehash the reasons why I felt all those feelings. It's very personal and I just don't feel like sharing every single aspect of my life. The feelings have carried over throughout the weekend and are trying to cling to me. I feel like Satan really wants me to keep feeling this way and keep me from progressing. I'm not going to give him the satisfaction! 

Here are some things that have helped me feel better:

1.  My friend wrote this on my facebook wall. It's one of the nicest compliments I've ever gotten. For reals."Every time I talk to you I feel better about life. Every time. I think you just radiate hope and a love for life."      

 It hit me really hard when I read this just because when you are feeling depressed you can't feel any hope. And it reminded me that even though I've been feeling depressed this weekend, it's not a permanent thing like it used to be. And it reminded me that I do feel hope and other people can see that in me. It made me feel hopeful again, ironically enough! :)

and my other friend wrote this:  "I love your laugh, I love that you are always there for me, I love your empathy and compassion, I love that you always validate me when I need it. I love that you are a good listener, I love that you were always up for my crazy adventures, I love that I'm lucky enough that not only do you call me your friend, but we really are going to be friends forever. It's awesome. Once again: Love ya!!!"


I know gifts are my love language but words of affirmation is almost tied for first. :) I love hearing this stuff about myself because otherwise I honestly don't think people care or even notice, or it's stuff that I don't think is even true. But I need to hear it. 

2. My friend Ruth wrote me this poem: 

ODE TO MARY

Mary the merry, she is full of warmth and joy
Oh Mary Cherry, she'll find a lucky boy 
A real man he will be and he will see
her humor, pizazz, and loyalty
Her charms include her freckles and smile 
And oh, how I adore her lovely style!
Her bravery and strength truly inspire
Her kindness lifts everyone higher
Her presence exudes peace and serenity
I am blessed by our friendship now and eternally! 

3. This picture:

4. Cake waffles (from funfetti cake mix) with ice cream on top and croquet from my roommates who gave me a "birthday do-over" yesterday after church.

Me and the ladies playing croquet. Just ignore the fact that this is a hideous photo of me and admire all my lovely friends instead. This is one side of our yard (we have a lot of grass to mow!) 

5. I bought tickets with some friends and roommates to go see the musical "Beauty and the Beast" at the national theater. And we're also going to see a  Legwarmers concert (an 80's band) and rock out to 80's music!

6. The grace I've received from the Lord helping me feel more positive and strong. Giving me hope and strength that I can make it through! 

P.S. I'm starting the couch to 5K running program today. Yikes! Wish me luck! And thanks for all the birthday wishes and love everyone!!!! "I'm gonna make it after all!!!"