After my son was born and he began his full throttle, headlong journey into babyhood, toddlerhood and boyhood I had more than a handful of parents nod knowingly and recommend I read a book called Raisint Your Spirited Child.

Dutifully I read it. But as I did, I realized, this isn’t my son… but it sure is me!

Since this realization I’ve learned how to deal with my spirited behaviour: when it helps a situation and when it hinders it. Sometimes I find myself screaming into pillows, hiding under the blankets and biting my tongue to stop myself from telling my children what I’m really thinking.

I was diagnosed with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) last year and it’s actually been a blessing. For years I thought that perhaps I just wasn’t a stable person all the time. Then, gee, these mood swings started to have a pattern. With the help of a doctor and some great vitamins, an understanding (second) husband… I have a new outlook on life: If God can bring me to it, He can bring me through it.