Thank you all

[BooChocoBoom]

Yes, I am starting a new thread just to say thank you. Ok, a little bit more than that - an explanation as well. First, I want to thank Remy and RMDC for your very, very kind PMs. I did get them and I want you to know that my non-answers were just another unfortunate side-effect of what just about everyone on here also seems to be going through. They really did have an effect on me - they helped tremendously. To everyone else on here that has been posting about their depression - I FEEL YOU. Completely. I've been a major depressive since about junior high (I'm 32 - it's been a long time) and there are times when it is tough to just get out of bed for the day. I'll tell you one of the biggest things that gets me out of it - Spritestitch. Even if I don't post for months and months I visit this page first thing in the morning EVERY DAY (serial lurker, that's me). It's not just the amazing talent and geekery that blows my mind, it's the people. What other forums/groups do I know that would send X-mas gifts to one of their number in need? What other group would spend months on 2 humongous projects every year and expect no reward (the Child's Play quilts)? What other place would be so supportive to those down in the dumps? On what other site would complete strangers bother to send you a quick message of cheer? Not many - probably one in a million.

To the mods/admins/founder - Johloh, BMH, Servo, Starrley and anyone else I know works behind the scenes - thank you from the bottom of my heart for this wonderful gift you've given all of us.

Besides my previous woes, the holidays were a bit rough and I've been struggling to drag myself out of the depression and ennui bogging me down for what seems like months now. I am hopeful because I started stitching again last night and it felt like a dam broke. It felt great. I am planning on finding a therapist this year and getting some real help so that my ups and downs aren't quite so drastic. So here's to starting again and hopefully to healing.

Much love,

Laura AKA BooChocoBoom

[RMDC]

I know that "a dam broke" feeling. I'm really glad to hear you're feeling hopeful and that you checked in with us; you've been in my thoughts. SS really is the tightest forum I've ever had the privilege of joining. I know the people here have made some of my rough times easier.

[blackmageheart]

I'm so glad to hear that you may be taking those first steps to recovery. Many of us here are on that same path so always remember you're not alone.

About Sprite Stitch...we're not just a community, we're a family. An extended, scattered, nerdy and rather dysfunctional one, but a family nonetheless! When one of us hurts, we all hurt. When one of us has joy, we share that too. We help each other, because that helps ourselves. And we forge stronger bonds through that process. We may not be nearby, but we are linked. And that's what makes us awesome!

I am hopeful because I started stitching again last night and it felt like a dam broke.

I can really relate to this, as I recently started stitching again (as part of my therapy) and I feel a little better when I do it. So keep it up, you're doing good.

[kuja.girl]

Welcome back!I'm really glad you are feeling better - being down sucks.
(I just realized I was in a bit of a slump myself. Just SAD I think. I miss the sun!)

[MeiTow]

SS needs a "like" button so I could like this so many times! I feel the same way a lot of times about getting a little pickmeup by coming here and reading what others are talking about. This place really got me back into stitching and I love everyone here for that.

I'm sorry you've been in a bad way lately and I'm glad you are seeking help. I believe that even just talking about things (specially when you don't want to talk about it) can really help lift the burden on your shoulders.

Kuja -> I think I'm getting SAD too. So much snow and cold. I have only stepped foot outside to take the dog out and right back inside after. I don't have a license so I don't get out much anyway but no way in heck I'm going to go for a walk in this weather. Hopefully we'll have a mild spring/summer so I can get back out and walking with the pooch...we're both getting flabby (and a flabby greyhound is just a damn shame, imo)!