- I haven't kept track of the exact number of days, but it's been weeks since I've done one of my hours-long hand washing rituals. While I have, probably 3-4 times, washed my hands for longer than a normal person would, the longest I've done that is less than 10 minutes.
- I've been putting all the groceries away as they come home. Nothing has stayed on the floor for a very long time.
- I've been having a healthy breakfast and taking a multivitamin every day for a while now, and I'm feeling better.
- I'm exercising much more regularly.
- I'm doing more things I enjoy.
- I finally got that blanket out I was working on for my daughter, the one I was afraid to touch because it was "contaminated". I'll continue working on it now.
- I've allowed a visitor to stop by twice now. That's huge, and a first since 2009.
- I finally got the living room arranged just the way I want it! That's also been on hold since 2009.
- I've been asking for less reassurance, and almost never asking for a "spotter" to watch me do things. Major improvements on that front.
- I'm cooking more! And eating healthier in general.
My fingernails are growing - not just back, but kind of long! I have not had any length to my nails in years. Kinda makes me want to paint them. I just might.
My mantra, as I press on through this week, this journey, this fight, is: be afraid, and do it anyway.
DO IT ANYWAY.
"Courage is simply the willingness to be afraid and act anyway."
That is so awesome. I haven't commented in awhile, I have had so much to do around the house/yard and my comments have been few and far between BUT I have been reading posts to catch up on people. I am a hand washer too, and it is one of my hardest things to stop, which means I am not doing too well with that one. Other OCD stuff seems to be getting better but hand washing and long showers, not so good. I am glad your making so much progress!
ReplyDeleteYay!!! I'm so happy for you! The steps you've made are huge! I really hope your husband is pleased with your progress. I know it's been rough for y'all. The conversation you had with him when he was telling you to just stop talking is one that my husband and I have frequently. My husband gets the same way. He says all I do is talk. I know he's tired of my OCD and that he's just as frustrated as I am. But still. It hurts. But again I'm so proud of you. Keep up the good work. I know your daughter is gonna be happy when you're done with the blanket! :)
ReplyDeleteOf all the books I have read, this blog has helped me to feel more "normal" than I have in years. Thank you for being so honest and so brave. Feel free to not approve any of the comments I have let along the way, I will not be offended. I understand how personal this blog is for you and I am commenting more for my benefit than yours. Thank you!
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