A Reblog: The Great Search to Maintain My Mental Health During Perimenopause

I am always grateful to Kathy, the host of Navigating the Change, for publishing my work. It reminds me that I am not alone in describing the various changes we may endure as we age. It reminds me that I still have a voice and others want to hear (read) it, too. Here is a snippet from the article, but to read it in its entirety and comment, please proceed to the actual published article on the site. Thank you in advance. Peace and blessings.

Three years ago, I was diagnosed with chronic adjustment disorder with intermittent anxiety and depression. And now I’m facing the ultimate test. My therapist has announced that she will be retiring.

Though my therapist and I have worked through strategies on how to live with this diagnosis, she did not prepare me for what I am supposed to do if she should announce her retirement during my fourth year of perimenopause.

My initial response was one of happiness; I was and am happy for her. I celebrated the reality of this new venture with her during our last session. I told her I was proud of her. A leap like this is monumental.

We chatted about it a bit before the end of our last session, and she communicated that she would help me to compile a list of recommendations.

But it is scary.Tremaine L. Loadholt, Navigating the Change

flowing

Pictured Poetry created by Tremaine L. Loadholt

I’m dealing with my therapist’s retirement announcement in my own way. I’m happy. I’m sad. I’m so hopeful for her future. I wish her well, too.

But I am not looking forward to the search that is before me for a new one.

And so, I’m writing poetry about it. Of course, I am. Of course, I am.


Originally shared via Instagram.

Black History Facts You Didn’t Learn In School

Yecheilyah Ysrayl of The PBS Blog has launched a new work of art. Black History Facts You Didn’t Learn In School is available on all purchasing platforms!

She has spent years researching the history facts she shares in this book, including traveling to several places to dig deeper into some of the things she discusses within it.

I’ve just carted my copy on Amazon, and I cannot wait until it’s in my hands.

Black History is America’s History! Sadly, much of it is being buried or lied about or banned, and this disgusts me, but the work must be done.

Happy Saturday, beautiful people!

A Creative’s Workspace

We all need somewhere to be creative

Small creative workspace #1. Photo Credit: Tremaine L. Loadholt

I have a workspace for my job; it’s in my bedroom. But as a writer, as a creative, I needed a small workspace not linked to my professional life.

It didn’t take much time to put this simple yet efficient (foldable) desk together, and the chair, although it looks plain & possibly unappealing (to you), it is serving its purpose. It was also quite pricey for that top-notch comfy cushion you see.

There is just something about having a place in which one’s creative thought-processes can flourish and produce digestible fruit. There is a peace in it that I cannot describe.

I’ll just have to show you.

And what workspace is complete without a candle to lend a light, inviting fragrance to the room, huh? Not one. Not one at all.

Small creative workspace #2. Photo Credit: Tremaine L. Loadholt

I’d forgotten the importance of lingering in a space for the express purpose of writing and creating and being at peace with how my mind works and operates as I am creating.

This space is surrounded by natural light and everything I need to bring soothing comfort to me regularly.

I do not think I could ask for anything more. I am prayerful it will fulfill its duties as time presses on. I have this feeling it will. My gut is telling me so. And, I trust my gut.

I reached out to a fellow friend and creative to see how he feels about collaborating. My idea is to write a poem and have him create art around that poem or have him create his own art piece and I write a poem enveloping his creative output. I am waiting for his response. If I know this person like I know this person, he’s going to be down for it, and before year’s end, I should have something to share here from our labor.

Now that you have been introduced to my new workspace, how about sharing your own? Tag this post or my blog in response by posting a picture and a snippet on your own blog about where you are most creative. It could be anywhere, of course.

Where do you get creative, beautiful people?