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i've been away from DS for a month. the whole holiday season i was trying to focus on life beyond my computer. don't know how well i did. i missed the community here a lot. i managed to stay busy and keep my mood up. i also decided to try something new...truly getting over my last relationship means opening myself up to a new experience. i haven't been able to clearly envision a life beyond what i'd lost, but i'm going to try.  so i placed a personals ad. i got a few replies and i've been chatting with someone who responded for the last week or so. it's weird, different, a bit terrifying actually. we met for coffee which was nice, and we have a date on saturday to go to the cinema. so...we'll see??? it's all pretty nerve-wracking. another key issue is school (again). i'm set to start the semester. i feel i'm ready. still anxious and there are a few things i still need to get in place. like my new therapist. i'm really bummed that my fantastic therapist has moved away, but she recommends this new guy so we'll see how it goes on friday.  i know one thing i have to do in order to keep on track is journal every single day. so i thought i'd start today and go from there. i read a fantastic article in the new york times, "the americanization of mental illness" it's about gloablisation and exporting psychology and cultural structures, but there's quite an argument there too about integrated communities and the impact on people with mental illnesses.  being in touch with my feelings and being part of a larger community is very important. i haven't done well with the one and anxiety has kept me from much of the other. i'm definitely going to try to get down to the UU and just be more active in community stuff in general. if i'm journalling, i'm in touch with where i am mood wise and can be more aware of dangerous situations before they go critical (hopefully). so here's to a new year and new goals and strategies and building the skills to see me through 'til next year.