It’s not raining outside, but I am having a “jumping in puddles” kind of day. For me that’s when it feels like a switch has turned on and I find myself actively moving through my day with sheer happiness. I am jumping from one activity to another, from sweeping, to folding clothes, to making art, to anxiously awaiting a package of yarn at my door so that I can crochet – not because I am good at it but because I find it so relaxing. We shall see how that goes, as I am not in the mood for sitting still.

I always love these kind of days. Because I take my medicine, I am fairly confident that it will not turn into mania, and I am pleased just to keep a look out for any red flags that would lead down that road. It is a little sad that I must be cautious at the same time as I am happy, but I see these little bursts of energy as companions that come for a brief visit. They will go within a matter of days, and so will the energy and love of life. So for now, I enjoy it.

I went to a party on New Year’s Eve. I cried on New Year’s Day. I was struck by how much I bury my true self when I go to a party, how much I struggle with introversion, and how desperately I prefer deeper conversation, yet don’t want to reveal my emotions. Then I realized many people experience the same thing, and the positive aspects of introversion are worth it to me. I am an observer of the world, and it spills out into my art, so for that I am appreciative.

The turning on and off of the light switch provides a certain rhythm to life that is just a part of the journey. I am puddle jumping my way from one mood to the next, reminding myself that those days of happiness are something to cherish. I don’t want to present bipolar as if it is easy to manage, it most certainly is not. I am one of the lucky ones who has been relatively stable for some time. I wish for all those who struggle with mental health issues that they have some puddle jumping days.