Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Nickie Things

I am one of the many who lives with General Anxiety Disorder, and Depression. Thanks to the nature of my brain, my challenge has always been to find the positive in things, as I can be the one that sees the glass half empty, or even more accurately, sees the glass falling off the table and smashing into a million tiny pieces!

It seems that these days we are ALL inundated with negativity. Between the world news, social media, or even conversations at the grocery store, these are definitely challenging times. 

Of course, like everyone else, my life has its share of ups and downs. Along with the highs (and there have been lots of those), we have had some lows. We have had our share of losses of friends and family members. Our family has dealt with some pretty serious health challenges .There is never a dull moment at my house, I always say! 

To keep myself mentally healthy, I have to do what I call "the work". This is what I call, the "Nickie Things". These are the things that re-charge my batteries. The things that fill my soul. The time I spend with pens, paints, crochet hooks, and knitting needles. The time spent hugging my grandbabies, or spending time with my friends that support me. The time I spend with my dogs. The time I spend writing the stories of my heart. 


When I stop doing "Nickie Things", it is a pretty strong indication that I am heading towards trouble.

Without doing the work, my brain can start to lie to me. The imagination that is my gift as a creative, is my curse that can turn on me in an instant. I start worrying about everything, envisioning the worst case scenarios. Catastrophizing becomes my jam. It is not good.

Which brings me to this blog, dear reader. I want to try to promote positivity as much as I can. I would like to hi-light the joy in simple things. I want to show how one can connect with one's self, and connect with others through creativity, and with community. I want to share the "Nickie Things" that keep me in the light.  I want to help you, dear reader to see the magic and the blessings in every day life. I know that I am not alone in having these challenges, and maybe what I share, may spark something in you, like it does me. 



3 comments:

Pat Winter said...

Nickie, you express things oh so accurately.
It’s one thing to understand what we go through but being able to explain it so clearly is a positive thing in itself.

I’m very glad you are doing this❣️

Just knowing some one else has the same consistent turmoil and struggle helps.
Your being able to share what you do ( your work) and why, gives one pause for thought.
This is a wonderful, encouraging blog.
Thank you🤗

Crystald said...

I love the way you can put words to the thoughts that so many of us have. I always look to you for a ray of sunshine and happiness when I feel a bit anxious myself, so never discount what you mean to so many and how much joy you bring simply by being you.

Dawn said...

You are such a shining light, Nicolette. I loved reading your blog entry and the reminders you shared are much needed for me and many others, too. We're similar in a lot of ways, and I'm grateful to you for your friendship, creative inspiration, positivity, and smile. You always have a smile on your face no matter the season or situation — don't ever change! xoxo