Inked By God

I had an awesome experience volunteering with Samaritan's Purse in Costa Rica. I was able to experience handing out the Christmas shoeboxes first hand. The excitement and gratefulness the children had was such a blessing to witness.

Depression and anxiety is not a gift you want. Self care is the perfect gift to yourself this season.

Honouring yourself con't.... * Don't get trapped. When you go to holiday events, drive yourself so you can leave if it gets to be too much. *Remember that crying is okay. The holidays are everywhere and who knows what may trigger a cry-fest. *Listen to yourself. Don't worry what people say of what you should and shouldn't do. *Ask for help. Say yes to help. ... *Be careful with food and alcohol. Both can make us feel better in the short run, but later not so good. *Prioritize and don't over commit. When the holidays are filled with parties, dinners, and events, save your energy for those that are most important. *Enjoy yourself! The holidays will be taught, but there will also be love and joy. It is okay to be happy. Being happy doesn't diminish how much you love and miss the person who isn't there this holiday. Don't feel guilty for the joy you do find in the holiday season. **Many tips include Don't feel guilty. Only you really knows how you are feeling. Seeking counselling is a healthy way to help navigate through the holidays. I am here to help. Hugs. See more

Honouring During The Holidays: Honouring yourself: *Acknowledge the the holidays will be different and they will be tough. *Remember that not everyone will be grieving the same way you. And that is ok! *Be honest. Tell people what you do want to do for the holiday and what you don't want to do. ... *See a counsellor. The holiday are tough, this may be the time to talk to someone. Or go to a grief group. *Visit your loved ones graveside and leave a wreath, poinsettia, or other meaningful holiday items. *Skip holiday event if you are in holiday overload. Don't feel guilty! *Skip or minimize the decorations if they are too much this year. Don't feel guilty! See more

Most are in full swing of the holiday season. A season that is intended to be wrapped in love and joy. A time to be with family and friends. However, this is not the case for some. I know people personally and I am sure you do to, that have lost a loved one in the last year. The season becomes new, a time that has to be navigated carefully and a time that can bring up many emotions. Christmas is a time that has many triggers. Walking down the isle at a store and seeing a gift... you would have bought your loved one, knowing that there will be an empty seat at the table this year, hearing their favourite Christmas song, and perhaps not having them join you for that special Christmas service at church. Give yourself some grace and space this holiday season. Over the next few days I will post some tips on how to survive the holidays and take care of yourself after the loss of a loved one. You are not alone! Hugs. See more