Friday, November 4, 2022

How carers or friends can help - Part 1

Marja is sharing about "A lonely Place" in depression. The loneliness and disconnectedness we, who are prone to depression or bipolar depression, can feel at times when we go through depression, is possibly the worst part of the whole experience of depression.

I can identify with Marja's feeling as I often felt that way too whenever I go through depression. I am not able to feel love in any way. And that is extremely painful as I am someone who feel very deeply and love deeply whenever I am well. How I long to love and be loved though I can't feel it because during depression the chemical in our brain has become unbalanced and not able to send the right messages to our brain. So I can't think and feel aright.

Marja wrote on her Blog "Roller Coaster":

I need a friend who will listen to me and just be with me for a while, without making me feel bad about being the way I am. I need a friend who will not tire of sticking with me as I work my way out of the hole I'm in. I need a friend who will love me, no matter how ugly I feel. I need someone I can count on. I need someone who will remind me that God is there. Read more of Marja's sharing....


No man is an island. We all need family and friends in our life to make us a complete person and for us to live a meaningful life. Recently, I shared about my struggles with the issue of "What is the meaning of Life" whenever I go through severe depression. The lack of ability to know and feel the love of God, the love of my family, church brethren and friends, makes me feel life is so meaningless and it is so difficult to go on day by day. I felt as if I am left on a obscure island, isolated from the world and living a life that is utterly useless, and there is no way out of it at all. I am doomed to face the extreme loneliness and helplessness every day. I yearned for human contact but there is none because no one knows how to get onto that island. If someone tried hard enough, maybe they can come on a boat and they might find me. But no one seems to be trying. In my own distorted mind and inability to feel, even God seems so far away. I know He is there and I longed for someone to just give me that assurance again. The loneliness, pain and hopelessness one can feel during a severe depressive episode is beyond description. And another very difficult part of it is that it goes on for days, weeks, months and for some people even years. Day in day out, night in night out, week in week out, etc. You have to go through it yourself to know how it is like. But I sincerely pray that my family and friends will not need to go through these experiences themselves in order to pray and encourage me.

Many times it was the thought of God and my aged mother which prevented me from ending my own life. Note: If you are reading this article and you undergoing severe depression with suicidal thoughts or tendency, please stop reading and seek help immediately! There is help for depression. It can be treated. Don't suffer alone. Reach out and call someone! If you are in Singapore, you can contact these people in Singapore.

During severe depression, I often wonder how to carry on in such a utter pain, misery and loneliness? Who will understand and who will help? Thank God that He is with me and Marja, and all of His other precious children whenever we have to go through severe depression. No matter how we are not able to feel God's love and presence during that time, He never leave us nor forsake us. He is very near to us and it is He who is sustaining us. For underneath us is His everlasting arms. True, during depression I just couldn't feel anything of God's love or presence with me, but that is only because at such a time the chemical in my brain has become distorted. When I am better or well, I will know once again His everlasting love and mercies, which has been unchanging.


Marja's sharing reminded me of a question a dear church friend, Wee Chin, who just asked me yesterday on how she can help me if she notices that I am either a little manic or depressed besides praying. I thank God for her willingness not only to pray for me but also to help in some ways. Several months ago, my brother-in-Christ, Chee Yean, asked me the same question after I shared with him about my experiences with bipolar disorder especially my severe depressive episodes which often lasted for 3 to 6 months or longer.

DBSA and other mental/psychological health sites have many useful articles for sufferers and carers/friends of person with bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness) or depression, etc. As these articles are on public domain and meant to help us, I will try and post some of these articles on my blog by and by, for our prayers and help.

The following is taken from the website of Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) :

Family and Friends' Guide to Recovery From Depression and Bipolar Disorder

When a friend or family member has an episode of depression or bipolar disorder (manic depression), you might be unsure about what you can do to help. You might wonder how you should treat the person. You may be hesitant to talk about the person’s illness, or feel guilty, angry, or confused. All of these things are normal.

There are ways you can help friends or family members throughout their recovery while empowering them to make their own choices.

The Five Stages of Recovery

It can be helpful to view recovery as a process with five stages. People go through these stages at different speeds. Recovery from an illness like depression or bipolar disorder, like the illness itself, has ups and downs. Friends and family who are supportive and dependable can make a big difference in a person’s ability to cope within each of these stages.

1. Handling the Impact of the Illness
Being overwhelmed and confused by the illness.

An episode of mania or depression, especially one that causes major problems with relationships, money, employment or other areas of life, can be devastating for everyone involved. A person who needs to be hospitalized may leave the hospital feeling confused, ashamed, overwhelmed, and unsure about what to do next.

What friends and family can do:

  • Offer emotional support and understanding.
  • Help with health care and other responsibilities.
  • Offer to help them talk with or find health care providers.
  • Keep brief notes of symptoms, treatment, progress, side effects and setbacks in a journal or personal calendar.
  • Be patient and accepting.

Your loved one’s illness is not your fault or theirs. It is a real illness that can be successfully treated. Resist the urge to try to fix everything all at once. Be supportive, but know that your loved one is ultimately responsible for his or her own treatment and lifestyle choices.

2. Feeling Like Life is Limited
Believing life will never be the same.

At this stage, people take a hard look at the ways their illness has affected their lives. They may not believe their lives can ever change or improve. It is important that friends, families, and health care providers instill hope and rebuild a positive self-image.

What friends and family can do:

  • Believe in the person’s ability to get well.
  • Tell them they have the ability to get well with time and patience. Instill hope by focusing on their strengths.
  • Work to separate the symptoms of the illness from the person’s true personality. Help the person rebuild a positive self-image.
  • Recognize when your loved one is having symptoms and realize that communication may be more difficult during these times. Know that symptoms such as social withdrawal come from the illness and are probably not a reaction to you.
  • Do your best not to rush, pressure, hover or nag.

A mood disorder affects a person’s attitude and beliefs. Hopelessness, lack of interest, anger, anxiety, and impatience can all be symptoms of the illness. Treatment helps people recognize and work to correct these types of distorted thoughts and feelings. Your support and acceptance are essential during this stage.

3. Realizing and Believing Change is Possible
Questioning the disabling power of the illness and believing life can be different.

Hope is a powerful motivator in recovery. Plans, goals, and belief in a better future can motivate people to work on day-to-day wellness. At this stage people begin to believe that life can be better and change is possible.

What friends and family can do:

  • Empower your loved on to participate in wellness by taking small steps toward a healthier lifestyle. This may include:
    • Sticking with the same sleep and wake times
    • Consistently getting good nutrition
    • Doing some sort of physical activity or exercise
    • Avoiding alcohol and substances
    • Finding a DBSA support group
    • Keeping health care appointments and staying with treatment
  • Offer reassurance that the future can and will be different and better. Remind them they have the power to change.
  • Help them identify things they want to change and things they want to accomplish.

Symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder may cause a hopeless, “what’s the point?” attitude. This is also a symptom of the illness. With treatment, people can and will improve. To help loved ones move forward in recovery, help them identify negative things they are dissatisfied with and want to change, or positive things they would like to do. Help them work toward achieving these things.

4. Commitment to Change
Exploring possibilities and challenging the disabling power of the illness.

Depression and bipolar disorder are powerful illnesses, but they do not have to keep people from living fulfilling lives. At this stage, people experience a change in attitude. They become more aware of the possibilities in their lives and the choices that are open to them. They work to avoid feeling held back or defined by their illness. They actively work on the strategies they have identified to keep themselves well. It is helpful to focus on their strengths and the skills, resources and support they need.

What friends and family can do:

  • Help people identify:
    • Things they enjoy or feel passionate about
    • Ways they can bring those things into their lives
    • Things they are dissatisfied with and want to change
    • Ways they can change those things
    • Skills, strengths and ideas that can help them reach their goals.
    • Resources that can help build additional skills
  • Help them figure out what keeps them well.
  • Encourage and support their efforts.

The key is to take small steps. Many small steps will add up to big positive changes. Find small ways for them to get involved in things they care about. These can be activities they enjoy, or things they want to change, in their own lives or in the world.

5. Actions for Change
Moving beyond the disabling power of the illness.

At this stage, people turn words into actions by taking steps toward their goals. For some people, this may mean seeking full-time, part-time or volunteer work, for others it may mean changing a living situation or working in mental health advocacy.

What friends and family can do:

  • Help your friends or family members to use the strengths and skills they have.
  • Keep their expectations reachable and realistic without holding them back.
  • Help them find additional resources and supports to help them reach their goals step-by-step.
  • Continue to support them as they set new goals and focus on life beyond their illness.
  • Help them identify and overcome negative or defeatist thinking.
  • Encourage them to take it easy on themselves and enjoy the journey.

People with depression or bipolar disorder have the power to create the lives they want for themselves. When they look beyond their illness, the possibilities are limitless.

What you can say that helps:

  • You are not alone in this. I’m here for you.
  • I understand you have a real illness and that’s what causes these thoughts and feelings.
  • You many not believe it now, but the way you’re feeling will change.
  • I may not be able to understand exactly how you feel but I care about you and want to help.
  • When you want to give up, tell yourself you will hold of for just one more day, hour, minute - whatever you can manage.
  • You are important to me. Your life is important to me.
  • Tell me what I can do now to help you.
  • I am here for you. We will get through this together.

Avoid saying:

  • It’s all in your head.
  • We all go through times like this.
  • You’ll be fine. Stop worrying.
  • Look on the bright side.
  • You have so much to live for why do you want to die?
  • I can’t do anything about your situation.
  • Just snap out of it.
  • Stop acting crazy.
  • What’s wrong with you?
  • Shouldn’t you be better by now?

What to find out:

Contact information (including emergency numbers) for your loved one’s doctor, therapist, and psychiatrist, your local hospital, and trusted friends and family members who can help in a crisis

Whether you have permission to discuss your love one’s treatment with his or her doctors, and if not, what you need to do to get that permission.

The treatments and medications your loved one is receiving, any special dosage instructions and any needed changes in diet or activity.

The most likely warning signs of a worsening manic or depressive episode (words and behaviors) and what you can do to help.

What kind of day-to-day help you can offer, such as doing housework or grocery shopping.

When talking with your love one’s health care providers, be patient, polite and assertive. Ask for clarification of things you do not understand. Write things down that you need to remember.

Helping and getting help

As a friend or family member you can provide the best support when you’re taking care of yourself. It helps to talk to people who know how it feels to be in your situation. Talk with understanding friends or relatives, look for therapy of your own, or find a DBSA support group.

DBSA support groups are run by people, families and friends affected by depression or bipolar disorder. They are safe, confidential, free meetings where people can learn more about depression, bipolar disorder, and how to live with the illnesses.

One father of a daughter with bipolar disorder says, “DBSA support groups help take a lot of stress out of your life. As a family member, you have to be as prepared as possible, and accept that things will still happen that you aren’t totally prepared for. DO all the research you can. Build a long list of dependable resources and support people, so when a situation arises, you know where to turn and how to take the next step. This really helped my family when we needed it.”

A mother of a son with depression says, “When you are in the middle of a situation, it’s hard to see what’s happening, but when you sit in a support group meeting across from someone who is going through the same things, it gives you perspective.”

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) has a complete section with information for family and friends to help a loved one on their recovery to wellness.


Thank God for Marja's "Living Room" ministry which is a Support Group for people with mood disorders.

Regards,|
Nancie
March 2008



Thursday, November 3, 2022

Helping someone with mood disorder

(taken from the website of Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)

Mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder (also known as manic-depression) affect millions of people. Their family members and friends are affected too. If someone you love has a mood disorder, you may be feeling helpless, overwhelmed, confused and hopeless, or you may feel hurt, angry, frustrated and resentful. You may also have feelings of guilt, shame and isolation, or feelings of sadness, exhaustion and fear. All of these feelings are normal.

What you need to know:

  • Your loved one’s illness is not your fault (or your loved one’s fault).
  • You can’t make your loved one well, but you can offer support, understanding and hope.
  • Each person experiences a mood disorder differently, with different symptoms.
  • The best way to find out what your loved one needs from you is by asking direct questions.

What you need to find out:

  • Contact information (including emergency numbers) for your loved one's doctor, therapist, and psychiatrist, your local hospital, and trusted friends and family members who can help in a crisis.
  • Whether you have permission to discuss your loved one's treatment with his or her doctors, and if not, what you need to do to get permission.
  • The treatments and medications your loved one is receiving, any special dosage instructions and any needed changes in diet or activity.
  • The most likely warning signs of a worsening manic or depressive episode (words and behaviors) and what you can do to help.
  • What kind of day-to-day help you can offer, such as doing housework or grocery shopping.

When talking with your loved one's health care providers, be patient, polite and assertive. Ask for clarification of things you do not understand. Write down things you need to remember.

What you can say that helps:

  • You are not alone in this. I’m here for you.
  • I understand you have a real illness and that’s what causes these thoughts and feelings.
  • You may not believe it now, but the way you’re feeling will change.
  • I may not be able to understand exactly how you feel, but I care about you and want to help.
  • When you want to give up, tell yourself you will hold on for just one more day, hour, minute - whatever you can manage.
  • You are important to me. Your life is important to me.
  • Tell me what I can do now to help you.
  • I am here for you. We will get through this together.

What you should avoid saying:

  • It’s all in your head.
  • We all go through times like this.
  • You’ll be fine. Stop worrying.
  • Look on the bright side.
  • You have so much to live for; why do you want to die?
  • I can’t do anything about your situation.
  • Just snap out of it.
  • Stop acting crazy.
  • What’s wrong with you?
  • Shouldn’t you be better by now?

Download a quick guide to "What Helps and What Hurts" here.

Some people are able to stabilize quickly after starting treatment; others take longer and need to try several treatments, medications or medication combinations before they feel better. Talk therapy can be helpful for managing symptoms during this time.

If your friend or family member is facing treatment challenges, the person needs your support and patience more than ever. Education can help you both find out all the options that are available and decide whether a second opinion is needed. Help your loved one to take medication as prescribed, and don’t assume the person isn’t following the treatment plan just because he or she isn’t feeling 100% better.

There is hope:

As a friend or family member of someone who is coping with bipolar disorder or depression, your support is an important part of working toward wellness. Don’t give up hope. Treatment for mood disorders does work, and the majority of people with mood disorders can return to stable and productive lives. Keep working with your loved one and his or her health care providers to find treatments that work, and keep reminding your loved one that you are there for support.

page created: May 3, 2006
page updated: November 2, 2006
(First posted here on 12 Feb 2008)

Detox and Rejuvenate Program (Part 1)



Dear Reader,

Thank you for stopping by! 

Thank God for His mercies and grace.

As I shared in my previous post, for the last 2 year, my health has not been good nor stable. My Doctor is in the midst of finding the right combinations of new medicines and the optimal dosages for my bipolar to stabilise. Aging, menopause and other changes in my body, brain, etc have caused some instability which require changes to my management of my health so that I can be more functional.

I have 8 chronic illnesses which are mostly hereditary. 
1. Bipolar Disorder 
2. Sleep Apnea
3. Asthma
4. High Blood Pressure 
5. High Cholesterol 
6. Borderline Diabetes 
7. Osteoarthritis of my knees and fingers
8. Irritable Bowel Syndrome

I am on long term medication for some of these medical conditions plus using various means to control them. I have been praying for much grace to cope because my health has not been good and stable for 2 years now. Thank God for linking me up with sister Deborah Wang on Facebook and she is concerned when she knows about my conditions. 

Deborah is a Nutritionist cum Health Consultant. She is teaching me a Detox and Rejuvenate Program as she believes there are a lot of toxin in my body due to prolonged medication and my meals. These toxins are affecting my body and brain in various negative ways. 

Sis Deborah has advised me to use the products from NewLife International for best results. Now I am starting slowly to detox and change my diet, as our Lord enables me, using the items I have at home first. Once my own items finished, I will buy the products from NewLife for the best results. See my next upcoming post for more details about sis Deborah, the Program and the products from NewLife.

Thanks again, Deborah, for your kind help and also for linking me up with Lydia. God bless yours and Lydia's kindness in helping me. I am looking to our Lord and waiting upon Him as I seek to make use of the resources He has provided.

Started the partial Detox and Rejuvenate Program today, Day 1, 2 November 2022, using my own resources first and my preference for healthy meals and healthy snacks:
1. Take Probiotics on empty stomach upon waking up.
2. Drink Apple Cider Vinegar with Raw Honey after that.
3. For Breakfast, I am eating Oat with Honey and Nuts or soft/hard boiled eggs.
4. For snacks, I am eating Fruits, Nuts and Seeds or Yoghurt with Honey and Nuts.


Deborah is a Nutritionist, a Certified Holistic Health Coach, Speaker and Trainer. She organises Wellness Parties, Health Retreats (Local & Overseas), Health & Wellness Talks & Workshops, Detox & Rejuvenate Challenge, Juice Cleanse Challenge, Fit & Fabulous Challenge, Weight Loss Made Easy Challenge. 

Deborah's goals are to impart Holistic Health Knowledge and share Practical Health & Fitness Tips. She said everyone should Detox Once in Awhile, Nourish our body All the Time & Exercise Regularly.

Deborah has her own company "Wellness Inc". To find out more about her services, see:


and




Thank God for grace and strength daily as I wait upon Him for restoration. 

Thanks again for stopping by. I hope some posts or resources I shared on this blog will glorify God and benefit you and others in need

By God's grace
Nancie
2 & 3 November 2022

Friday, October 28, 2022

Prolonged Recurrent Depression

Dear Reader,

Thank you for stopping by! 

I have experienced many episodes of extreme mood swings since 30 years ago. Sometimes I am well and energetic with increased creativity. Sometimes I am very unwell and clinically depressed with extreme exhaustion and unable to function. As the years went by, the episodes of my clinical depression kept increasing and worsening.

I sought medical treatment and I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder in March 2007. Since then I have been under medical treatment and using suitable management plans ie managing stress and stress, try to eat healthy meals, exercise, supplements, etc etc whenever I can.

For the first 13 years the medicine and treatment plans worked well. My health still alternating between hypomania (well) and severe clinical depression (very unwell), these being the characteristics of Bipolar. Thank God I was able to recover from the clinical depression within 2 weeks to a month after my Doctor increased the dosage of my anti-depressant whenever I have relapses. Once I was well, the dosages are lowered back to my regular dosage.

But over the last 2 year, 2 of the 4 medicines I have been taking, didn't work any more despite increased in dosages. It seems that my body has got used to them after taking them for 13 years. So I began to feel unwell. I realized that due to aging and menopause, my body is also undergoing some changes which also affect my whole body.

My Doctor is making some changes in my medicine as well as finding new treatment plans. For 2 years now, she has been trying me out with combinations of some new medicines and trying to find optimal dosages for my health to get better and stabilise.

So far, she has not found the right combinations of new medicines and the optimal dosages yet. It generally takes around 6 months for old medicines to leave my body system. So it also takes that long for the new replacement medicine to work.

Thank God for linking me up with sister Deborah Wang through Facebook. Deborah is a Nutritionist cum Health Consultant. She is teaching me a Detox and Rejuvenate Program as she believes there are a lot of toxin in my body due to prolonged medication and my meals. These toxins are affecting my body and brain in various negative ways. See my next post on Detox and Rejuvenate Program (Part 1) for details.

Thank God for grace and strength daily as I wait upon Him for restoration. God reminds me daily that He will give me sufficient grace and strength as I need. He has been comforting and encouraging me with Deuteronomy 33:25b "... as thy days, so shall thy strength be."


Thank you for stopping by. I hope some posts or resources I shared on this blog will benefit you and others in need.

By God's grace
Nancie
28 October 2022

Saturday, August 20, 2022

My bipolar disorder blog featured in a newspaper in Singapore

(This post was first posted on 25 January 2011)

Dear Friends,

Thanks for stopping by! Thank God for seeing us through almost a month in this new year.

Several months ago a reporter from a local newspaper here in Singapore, the Straits Times,  approached me for an interview regarding this blog on Bipolar Disorder - More Than Conquerors: (http://www.mylifewithbipolardisorder.com/). She was writing on how blogging help people cope with chronic illnesses and asked if I could share my story so that it can help others.

This interview was published a few days ago in The Sunday Times, 23 January 2011, Lifestyle section, page 9, and thank God for several readers in Singapore who wrote to let me know they appreciate my sharing of my own experiences plus the resources available. They themselves or their loved ones too suffer from bipolar disorder.

♥  I thank God that I can testified of His goodness and mercies to me through this blog. He is the One Who sustains me daily and enable me to cope and live a useful life for Him. Thank God that He is with us through all the changing scenes in life and He is working all things for His glory and our good. He promised that His grace is sufficient for us. He is my greatest comfort, peace and strength daily.

♥  I thank God for my family, my Church brethren and friends who love and accept me, pray for me and support me in my time of need. I am thankful to God for the joy and privilege of being acquainted with several people who are also suffering from bipolar, depression and other chronic illnesses and to be able to pray, support, encourage and learn from one another. I thank God for everyone of you, my dear blogging friends, and for your prayers and encouragements. They mean a lot to me. You have made a great difference in my life and used by God to encourage me and show me His love by your friendship and encouraging notes. You are in my thoughts and prayers too.

I thank God that I am in a community of people who love God and love me, who accepts me in my illness and weaknesses, and continue to extend their love and friendship to me. To the Lord and to all of you I owe a debt I cannot repay.

Thank you once again for all your prayers as I seek to walk with our Lord and serve Him within these limitations. Through your support, prayers and encouragements, God makes blogging therapeutic to me. It not only allows me to share my thoughts and feelings, and journal them as a form of reminder of God's goodness, it also encourages me through your friendships, prayers and encouragements. I am encouraged whenever I remember that there are people who care and are praying for me, and I am not alone.

♥  I am thankful to God that besides my personal sanctification and leading me to know more of His love, grace and mercies daily, He has opened a door of usefulness for me even through this condition and this blog. Since this blog was started in 2008, several readers from different parts of the world have also written to me to share their experiences and to let me know how the resources shared on my blog have helped them.

♥  May God be glorified through this blog. May He continue to use it to help others and their loved ones who are suffering in these ways and in need. Hope our Lord will lead some to come to find peace and comfort in the Lord too.

To God be the glory. Take care.

In His blessed care,
Nancie
25 January 2011

COMMENTS

1 Wendy, January 25, 2011 at 9:59 PM

Nancie,
Wow! That is so exciting that you and your blog were featured in the newspaper! Praise the Lord! May the article be used to glorify the Name of the Lord Jesus and to help others with bipolar to see that they, too, can live productive lives, to the glory of God. You are an awesome example to me of faith, consistency (your blog posts reflect a consistent theme of gratefulness, and praise to our Almighty God!), gratefulness, hopefulness, and perseverance. I love you, my sister in the Lord, and am so grateful to God that I have been able to meet you through blogging, and to call you my friend! It is very fun to see a picture of you, for I have often wondered if I would ever "meet" you in person, and what you would look like. I look forward to seeing you someday, whether here on earth or in heaven! I am very happy for you on this event!
Greatest blessings,
Wendy Gunn

REPLY
Nancie, January 26, 2011 at 6:18 PM

Hi Wendy,

Thank you for sharing the encouraging article on praying. It is a mercy that we can call upon God and offer our praise and thanksgiving to Him for His goodness to us and also to commit our loved ones and all things to Him in prayers. Thank God that our Lord Jesus Christ has opened that way by the sacrifice He made for us upon the cross. And He is our greatest Intercessor and Advocate daily always waiting to present the prayers of those who come to God through Him. This is such an encouragement! Thank and praise our Lord!

Many thanks for your visits, prayers and encouragements. Thanks for your very heart-warming and encouraging comment! It is always so good to hear from you and your comment always make my day :) I thank God that we can "meet" through blogging. You are also a shining example to me of a person who loves the Lord and lives for His glory. I look forward to meet you one day too in person whether here on earth or in heaven! May God continue to shower His love and many blessings upon you. Take care.

Warm regards,
Nancie

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2 Unknown, January 26, 2011 at 12:21 AM

I spent alot of time talking today about bipolar disorder and the help that is available....when accepted.

Blessings to you,
Happy WFW

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3 Joan Hall, January 26, 2011 at 4:21 AM

Nancie:

It certainly is exciting to know of your blog being featured in the newspaper. I thank God for women like you, who are not afraid to share their problems, needs, situations...and through it all you glorify God! I pray that not only many who also face bi-polar will be helped and encouraged, but also that many will come to know the hope we have in Christ.

Blessings to you,

Joan

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4 Donna, January 26, 2011 at 5:25 AM

First congratulations that your blog was featured in the newspaper! And thank you for sharing your verses and graphics today. I am thankful that we have a God who is always there for us, no matter what and His grace is sufficient. Thank you for sharing your journey with all of us. I believe it is helping many people who have the same journey as you.

Blessings to you this WFW!

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5 Mary, January 26, 2011 at 5:29 AM

Praise God that you are able to help others Nancie. Thank you for sharing. And am thankful with you that you are an overcomer!! Blessings to you dear girl.

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6 ozjane, January 26, 2011 at 5:34 AM

Blessings to you.
I am divorced because my ex left me as he spiraled into breakdown.
And I could do nothing but walk through it with God's grace.
He let his intellect guide him as he turned from faith to self help.

Keep looking to Jesus

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7 Spin, January 26, 2011 at 6:54 AM

CONGRATULATIONS!!

Love to you!

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8 Michelle-ozark crafter, January 26, 2011 at 7:43 AM

Hello sweet sister friend! I am glad to see you were featured in the paper. More people need to be aware of what it is like to live as we do. Love and huggles.

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9 marja, January 26, 2011 at 8:12 AM

So neat, Nancie. This is so exciting, isn't it? I hope lots more people find your blog as a result and that they will be helped.

May God bless you.
Love,
marja

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10 lori, January 26, 2011 at 8:18 AM

Wow Nancie....
Just another testimony to how what the enemy intends to use to destroy God uses for GOOD...and your article will touch lives you are never aware of...what a ministry.

Thank you for sharing this...
peace to you on the journey!
lori

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11 Heather Hart, January 26, 2011 at 9:01 AM

How wonderful that your blog was featured! That's awesome!

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12 Alida Sharp, January 26, 2011 at 10:31 AM

Congratulations on your blog being featured in the paper!

And I love the photos with the verses... thank you!

Happy WFW!

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13 Peggy, January 26, 2011 at 2:18 PM

Blessings Nancie and congratulations!

WOW! that is exciting and a great way to share on this to many and also a wonderful photo of you! You are an exemplary blogger of faith and trust and this honors God greatly! You are definitely MORE THAN A CONQUEROR! I know that this will bring glory to God! Your beautiful grateful heart and creative work is a blessing to many!

Your beautiful words to me were such a bright light to my day! Just to see you functioning always blesses me and you are clearly doing much better!

Your photos and scripture verses
truly exalt God at work in you and through you as we pass through the waters, we can rely that He is there...or the fire or the storm or the empty moments... whatever! It is because of your grateful heart that you continue to move two steps forward and hopefully no more backward ones. But I'm thankful that His grace is sufficient for you and me!

You have such a personal witness of God in your triumphs and also in your defeats you hold on to His Word and your heart is ever towards Him! I consider this an honor to know you and love you as my little sister! Your thankfulness is always so beautiful and how evident His Holy Spirit lifts you beyond the weight of bipolar. Your words glorify God as He strengthens you and holds you close! You bring great JOY to my heart and life!

Blogging is therapeutic for all of us, not just people with mental health issues. I accept you and your wise words because of who you are in Christ Jesus! I give Him thanks and praise for defeating and giving you strength to battle the highs and the lows. He is our balance! His Word is our daily medicine and there is healing in His wings! You share much wisdom and knowledge here that many can
receive and use! Not enough people visit and take the time to read, but I have and you know that you are such an enrichment and blessing to me! You encourage me in how you press on and persevere! May God continue to reward you! May this be just the beginning! May all surround you and support you as God continues His good work in us both!
May His blessings reign over you and stir you to continue with passion your artistic and ministry for His Namesake!

Indeed to God be the glory!!!

Love you so much and rejoicing with you,
Peggy
*sending a BIG hug and WOO HOO! Filled with love, peace, and JOY!
Great is Our Lord and greatly to be praised now and forever. Bless you for your beautiful message to me!
I treasure every word!

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14 Georgia, January 26, 2011 at 6:02 PM

wow! i am so proud of you for making this blog and getting published. you do have so much to be thankful for!

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Nancie, January 26, 2011 at 6:28 PM

Hi Lois,

Thanks for sharing about the transforming work of God in our lives. It is such an encouragement and blessed hope that our Lord Jesus Christ not only transformed us into a new person when we trusted in Him but is continuing to transform us daily to be more and more like Him and there is a future transformation when finally we see Him in Heaven one day. We shall enjoy His love and worship together with all His people without hindrances of sin and remaining corruptions. What a blessed hope!

Thank you for stopping by my blog. May God bless your week!

Warm regards,
Nancie

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Nancie, January 26, 2011 at 6:33 PM

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Hi Joan,

I am praying for you and your husband. Thank God for giving you peace. Thank God that He is with us and He gives us peace through all the changing scenes in life. Thanks for your visit and kind encouragements! May God continue to keep you close to Him and fill you with His peace and many blessings. Take care.

Warm regards,
Nancie

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Nancie, January 26, 2011 at 6:39 PM

Hi Donna,

Thank God that we have a God who hears our prayers and answer them in His own time and in His own wonderful ways. Truly our soul can never stop longing for our Lord to fill us with Himself and His love. Our soul is restless until we find our rest in Him. Like you, I too desire a closer walk with the Lord daily. Thank you for sharing with us. Thanks for your visit and encouragements. May God continue to draw you closer to Him and answer your prayers in His wonderful ways. Take care!

Warm regards,
Nancie

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Nancie January 26, 2011 at 6:43 PM

Hi Mary,

Thank our Lord Jesus Christ that we have true freedom in Him! Lovely picture and verse. Thanks for sharing with us. Thanks for your visit and encouragement. It's nice to hear from you. Take care and may God shower His many blessings on you.

Warm regards,
Nancie

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Nancie January 26, 2011 at 6:53 PM

Hi Ozjane,

Truly God is faithful. He hears our prayers and knows what is best. He answers them in His timing and according to His wills. Thanks for your visit and sharing. Take care!

Warm regards,
Nancie

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Nancie January 26, 2011 at 6:57 PM

Hi Spin,

I am praying for you. May God continue to heal you and fill you with His love and grace. Don't give up. Hang in there! He is faithful and He promised His grace is sufficient for us. Thanks for your visit and and encouragement. Take care!

Love to you too,
Nancie

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Nancie January 26, 2011 at 7:00 PM

Hi Michelle,

Slyvia is so cute! Thanks for sharing this sweet picture. It brings a smile to me :) Keep up your good work on the wolf! Glad you are enjoying it. It takes a lot of patience.

Love and huggles to you too,
Nancie

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Nancie January 26, 2011 at 7:04 PM

Marja,

I thank God that He led me to your blog. The Canadian lady mentioned in the newspaper clip was referring to you :) I am so thankful we met through blogging and I have been so blessed by your sharing. Your love for our Lord and His grace in enabling you to live a useful live for Him, is a constant encouragement to me. Your giving of yourself selflessly in helping others at Living Room gives me the motivation to reach out and help others too.

Thank God that He is the One Who sustains us and gives both of us grace to live for Him. May others too come to know the peace and comfort in Him.

Thanks again for all your prayers and encouragements. May God continue to keep you near to Him, bless your walk with Him and make you a blessing to others.

Love to you too,
Nancie

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Nancie January 26, 2011 at 7:08 PM

Hi Lori,

Thanks for sharing the lovely picture and all the encouraging verses. They are such precious reminders of what we are in Christ. May He enable us to live for His glory by His grace. Thanks for your visit and encouragements. Take care.

Warm regards,
Nancie

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Nancie January 26, 2011 at 7:13 PM

Hi Harter,

I am praying for you. Glad you are feeling better. May God continue to restore you. I am so thankful too for the many wonderful people I have met through blogging and all their encouragements. It's such a great blessing that you have the encouragement of the homeschooling mums. Thanks for your visit and encouragement. Take care!

Warm regards,
Nancie

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Nancie January 26, 2011 at 7:16 PM

Hi Alida,

Thank God that He is our Teacher and Guide, and we can look to Him and rest in Him daily! Thanks for your visit and encouragement! Take care.

Warm regards,
Nancie

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Nancie January 26, 2011 at 7:20 PM

Hi Peggy,

Thanks for your visit and encouragements! It is always so nice to hear from you :) Thank you for your many kind words of encouragements! Truly Great is Our Lord and greatly to be praised now and forever!

The verses you shared from James are so encouraging. They are such precious reminders when we go through difficult times. It is a comfort that God is with us through all the changing scenes in life and we can rest in Him and rejoice in Him no matter what we go through. He enables us to grow in Him through the trials in our life and He gives us wisdom and grace to go through them. I thank God for His many goodness and mercies to me as I battle with bipolar and other challenges in my life.

I am so thankful to God that through blogging I have "met" you and many wonderful friends. Thank God for all of you. Thank you so much for all your prayers and encouragements. May God continue to make you a blessing to many.

Take care and blessed New Year to you in 2011!

Love to you too,
Nancie

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Nancie January 26, 2011 at 7:31 PM

Hi Georgia,

Thank God for protecting your husband. I am too for the other families. May they know His mercies and comfort. We may not understand at times why God allows certain things in our life but if we belong to Him, we can have the firm assurance that He loves us and is in total control. When we leave this world we enter into our eternal rest yo enjoy His love and worship Him without hindrance.

Thank God for blessing you with a husband who isn't afraid to serve and protect his community. May God continue to protect him and use him as a good witness for Him. May God keep your family close to Him and bless your family with many blessings. Thanks for your visit and encouragement. Take care!

with Warm regards and prayers,
Nancie

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Comments
14 Pia January 27, 2011 at 12:26 AM

nancie, this is so wonderful! you are able to help believers and non believers alike and you are bringing glory to our Lord. i'm so sure that you brought a smile to His face. I am so happy for you. continue what you are doing because you are honoring God and surely you will be blessed.

praising God along with you!

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Comment
15 Nana Jul, January 27, 2011 at 3:58 AM

I think it's amazing that God uses our trials and weaknesses to minister to others! What a great ministry! God bless you HUGE.
Happy TT
Love,
Julie

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16 Kathryn, January 27, 2011 at 5:29 AM

Amen!! So glad that you are able to share your journey and your faith via your blog! Praise God!

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17 becky aka theRAV, January 27, 2011 at 10:19 AM

WOW! That is so cool Nancie! Now you are a celb. LOL Loved the picture. I had sort of pictured you like that in my mind's eye. You look like a professional writer. I doubt I could top everyone else comments that I have read here. They have said it all. I am thankful for crossing paths with your blog; for being your blogging friend as you are mine. It was great to "hear" your voice in your post again. I have missed you. I will try to catch up on older posts. Keep up the good work. You are certainly earning your crown in heaven by doing this blog. Thanks for being such an encourager for me and others. Many, many blessings to you.

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18 Jessica Kramasz, January 27, 2011 at 11:32 AM

Wow! What a wonderful opportunity - Praise the Lord.

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Nancie, January 27, 2011 at 7:02 PM

Hi Pia,

Thank God for providing for your needs. I am so thankful that He provides for me too. Truly He is our Shepherd and we will not lack anything. This is such an encouragement.

Thanks for your visit and many kind words of encouragements! It is so good to hear from you. Thank God that He is the One Who enables me to serve Him in little ways.

Take care and God bless you!

Warm regards,
Nancie

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Reply
Nancie January 27, 2011 at 7:07 PM

Hi Julie,

Thank God for blessing you as you seek to serve Him in your various callings! May God continue to use you as an instruments of blessing to many people.

Thanks for your visit and encouragements! It is always so good to hear from you. All praise and glory be to God. Take care. HUGS.

Happy TT

Love,
Nancie

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Comment
19 Grantham Lynn January 27, 2011 at 7:11 PM

Oh what a great post. I am so thankful for blogging too. Isn't it amazing that your blog made the news. Some people have talked about how all this internet stuff is kind of evil. But I see over and over how God is using this amazing medium for us to meet and connect and share Him. I think I met you a year or so ago. Did you make book marks? I think you sent me some! It is great to find you again. Thanks for sharing have a Great Friday.

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NancieJanuary 27, 2011 at 7:12 PM

Hi Kathryn,

It is so wonderful of God to use little Joshua. He is such a sweetie :) Indeed God works in many wonderful ways for us daily. It is encouraging to read of how He leads you and work things out for you. Praise God! Thanks for your visit and encouragements. To God be the glory!

Warm regards,
Nancie

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NancieJanuary 27, 2011 at 7:21 PM

Hi Becky,

Thank God for helping you through the week and sending friends to encourage you! These are such precious tokens of love from Him.

Thanks for your visit and many kind words of encouragements! It is always a joy to hear from you and you are truly a Super Encourager! I am so thankful to God that I "met" you through blogging. Isn't He so wonderful to connect us through the internet though we may be separated by seas and mountains? It will be so nice if we can meet in person :) whether here on earth or in heaven one day :)

Take care and many thanks again for your friendship and encouragement. God bless!

Warm regards,
Nancie

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NancieJanuary 27, 2011 at 7:25 PM

Hi Redeemed1,

Amen! It's such a great comfort that God is in control and He is unchanging. So thankful to know that He has seen you through a difficult year. He is faithful and His mercies endures forever. Though we may not always understand why He allows us to go through certain difficulties, but we have no doubt at all of His love, sovereignty and that He is working all things for His glory and our good. Yes, it is awesome to serve our Sovereign, Omnipotent, Immutable God!

Thanks for your visit and encouragements. Take care and God bless you and family.

Warm regards,
Nancie

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NancieJanuary 27, 2011 at 7:33 PM

Hi Sherry (MyJourneyBack),

Thanks for stopping by my blog! Yes, I do know you and it is indeed so good to be in touch again. I have not been blogging regularly and have lost touch with quite a number of bloggers. Thanks for your visit and words of encouragements.

I am so glad you are serving God in such a wonderful ministry to needy. Keep up your good work for our Lord! May God continue to bless you and the team that is doing this great work. Take care and have a blessed weekend!

Warm regards,
Nancie

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Comment
20 LS and Happy (Serendipity), January 27, 2011 at 11:33 PM

Hi Nancie!

PTL and congrats! It's amazing what God can do in our lives, isn't it? :-) You certainly have been such a blessing to all of us. I've always been very encouraged and uplifted by your posts as your faith is just like Peter walking on water.

Happy barks her congrats to you too and extra wags ;-)

Have a blessed weekend!

P/s: Love the picture of you in the papers. It certainly captures the very mood!

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Nancie January 28, 2011 at 5:04 PM

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Hi LS and Happy (Serendipity),

Thank you for you encouragements! You are a Super Encourager too! Thank God for His many mercies. He is the One Who gives me grace and strength to live for Him each day, and also peace and joy in simple ways.

You have been a great blessing to me too and I am so thankful to God that we can meet through blogging. Every visit to your blog brings a smile to me. Hugs to you and Happy :)

Blessed weekend to you too!

PS: I am just a very ordinary person. Any average lady is more beautiful than me :)

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Comment
21 Lynn, February 2, 2011 at 1:45 PM

Wow Nancie,

I'm just getting over here to read this now and I'm so glad I did. I just see the Lord all over your life and your strong witness to His grace and mercy in your heart.

You are an amazing woman and I long to meet you one day face-to-face. Thank you for your vulnerability and your grace. Hugging you tight. Lynn

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Comment
22 Qing, February 7, 2011 at 11:14 PM

Many years back a church friend told me he was suffering from depression but I could not understand what that was. Then it hit me months back and thank God I manage to overcome it quite fast. It seemed to come with a sudden drop in my health.

Then I understood why some depressed people would even seek death to escape from it. I heard that HK celebrity Sammy Cheng suffered fro