Hi! My name is Marilyn, I am a writer, and I’m thrilled to share my life with you.

Since my first diagnosis of bipolar disorder at age thirty-five, I’ve learned more through the twists and turns of my mental health experience than any textbook. Shame and stigma no longer keep me from sharing my identity as someone with mental illness like it used to earlier in life. I’m passionate about helping others who may have been diagnosed with a mental illness or who may struggle with mental health issues.

Knowing Jesus is the greatest passion in my life. As a matter of fact, I’m relieved to know that His grace sets me free from any standard of perfection. Confession: I’m a recovering perfectionist.

My family is a huge source of blessing and joy in my life. When I’m not spending time with my three children, their spouses, and four grandchildren, you might find me at a local coffee shop or catching the latest box office hit with my husband, Dwight. Walking in nature in central Texas gives me a boost, and sunshiny days are the best. Some other fun facts: I reach for a piece of dark chocolate from the pantry every single day—my not-so-guilty pleasure. Listening to music ranks up there as one of my most enjoyable experiences, and I can hardly get a meal prepared without tunes playing in the background. And, my nose is in a book almost every day; I especially love reading fiction for entertainment.

I’m excited for you to join me in my journey to explore and understand this mixed-up world filled with beautiful but imperfect people (like I am) who have been “punched in the face” more than once with often-overwhelming obstacles from a life with mental illness. I also want you to know that the purpose of this blog is to focus more on your journey than mine. YOU matter.