1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?
Being committed to a mental hospital after a suicide attempt. It truly was a humbling experience. The doctors were able to find the right combination of anti-depression medication. I also discovered the pleasures of sleep! The first night home I sleep for 13 hours!2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?
Learning to like the new calm, not depressed, not anxious Rona. It was difficult as I had to relearn how to carry daily duties, relationships and work as a mellow person. I now embrace this new me. 3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?
Kiana, our "adopted" teen daughter, coming into our lives! Her mother kicked her out, she's a friend of our son and needed a place to live. Charles and I gave her a room, bought a bed, bedding, clothes, ect. We also gave her displine and love. Everyday is truly a blessing. Thank you Heavenly Father.4. What was an unexpected obstacle?
My husband's second lay off after just 4 months of working. The money was fantastic and for the first time we were really able to have breathing room.5. Pick three words to describe 2010.
hectic, surprising, fun6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2010 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you).
loving, tired, nurturing7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2010 (again, without asking).
disappointing, challenging, exhausting8. What were the best books you read this year?
A Short Guide to a Happy Life by Anna Quindlen is a terrific read. Our son received as a high school graduation gift. One day I wasn't feeling well and thought I would give it a try. "Living your life deeply is the best gift God has given us". I loved it!9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?
Kiana, Marcus, Charles and the Heavenly Father10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?
Dealing with my husband's second layoff after just 4 months of working a full time living wage job. Then our teenage son was laid off from his part time job. That left just my income which isn't much. I found myself angry, confused and drained. I really need to focus on my relationship with the Heavenly Father to resolve my feelings.11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?
After finding the right anti-depression medication I found I wasn't so hard on myself and my family. I learned to really appreciate the day and whatever it brought me.12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?
I was truly humbled while I was in the mental hospital. I was surrounded by dangerous people, drug addicts and realized this was my moment on my knees, wearing a hospital gown with no pants and unkept hair. I gave up control and let the Heavenly Father take over. It was truly a growing spirtual experience.13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?
I started challenging myself when we moved to an apartment complex that had a gym. I do cardio and work on various weight machines. Recently I started doing situps. This is something I never thought I would do as a chronic pain sufferer.14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?
In my professional life, I find that I don't let customer frustration affect me in a negative way. I also made an extra effort to speak with people that I deal with in my day, like cashiers, receptionist, customer service reps and let them know that their efforts are appreciated. 15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)?
Being surprised with a Christmas bonus! I was able to treat Kiana to a hair color and trim before she left for her Christmas vacation.16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)?
My pain level became unmanageable which made it difficult to focus and multi-task effectively. I found I needed to take time off from work. My husband, pain management doctor and I came to the conclusion to change my pain medication. 17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?
Worry, it's constructive. Turning my worries over to the Heavenly Father is always the best answer.18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?
Stopping what I was doing and joining my hubby for relaxation. In the past, I just physically 'turn myself off'.19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?
Even in the most difficult times one does find rewards from their family. We're broke but happy! 20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2010 for you.
What an interesting rollercoaster ride!
