How I did it: I felt this way for about 2 years before I decided to take action and do something that would bring some joy back into my life.  Im not saying this was the end all be all cure for my depression but it was a step in the right direction.  I bought a puppy.  I loved dogs and they always make me happy, Ive always had one growing up...and at age 15 in 2007 she was put to sleep due to mammary cancer.  My parents always said after that hard experience they never wanted another dog again.  I just couldnt accept that, so I found a Boston Terrier that I have been eyeing for a while.  I brought him home November 3 2008 and ,since that day my life was def changed for the better.  Having him gave me a sense of purpose and responsibility again. 

Lessons & tips: Focusing my energy on him and his needs def helped keep my mind off of negative thoughts about myself and my life.  Instead of concentrating on how much of a "loser" I was, I found myself feeling more proud day after day of what I have accomplished with my dog.  I thought him tricks, and how to obey, and he is the most loyal dog to me and it just made me feel respected and loved.  I havent felt like that in a while and it was amazing that such a small creature could make such a dramatic impact on my life.  Socially he helped alot, because I wanted to bring him to dog parks and go for walks which would also help me socialize with people again.  He brought my family closer together because now we had something to talk about.  He just made me happy again and felt love.  A feeling I hadnt felt in a long time.  He also made me freel more confident so that I was open to finding love again...and sure enough a few months later when I least expected it - I met a wonderful guy and have been dating him ever since.  My life has made a complete 1180...and even though I dont have that dream job, or have that college degree I have found that I am here for a reason, and my life is not as hopeless as I once thought.  Even when I get sad or down I remind myself that it isnt all blue skies and rainbows, I just have to take the good with the bad and Ill get where Im supposed to be in time.  Having my two guys helps a lot :) <3

Aug 13, 11:43AM PDT | 1 comment | 3 cheers