As I mentioned in September, I’ve been dealing with a lot of school-related stress. I promised to provide updates, so that’s what this post is all about.

I know a lot of people think that college students “have it easy” (and I will admit that I have a pretty sweet schedule), but I’ve been immersed in an extra busy semester.

I’m taking some tough courses–senior research project and mass media law are especially challenging–and also balancing the position of editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, working, planning mine and Jimmy’s wedding, and keeping up with life in general. It’s a lot, and sometimes I feel really overwhelmed, but I’m also enjoying all the different activities I’ve been involved in.

I’d like to say that I’m feeling much less stressed, but I’m not. I’m still overwhelmed and busy, but I’m learning to deal with it and maintain balance in my life.

Of course, Jimmy has been so good to me. He had flowers delivered to my door yesterday.

The note card that came with the flowers said sweet things like “I’ve been praying for you daily,” and “I know you think you don’t like flowers, but I think you secretly do because I saw you looking at them in Wal-Mart this weekend!!” That definitely made me smile. He is such a blessing in my life!

The good thing about being so busy is that the semester is flying by. I’m currently finishing up week 10 out of 15. Yahoo!

Something that’s been helping me deal with stress is taking time to do things I love. I recently bought a sketch book, and while I’m no artist, I truly enjoy drawing and coloring.

Drawing makes me “zone out” and forget about everything. It’s so relaxing. I’m also making sure to stay extra close with God. And drinking a lot of coffee 🙂

So, that’s my update. I’m still feeling stressed out, but I’m also loving pretty much everything in my life at the same time! I’m incredibly blessed, and so thankful for all the opportunities and loving people in my life.

I will probably post another update on this topic in late November/early December because I think it’s important to address personal issues and not make it seem as though my life is perfect, or that I handle everything easily. I’m all about honesty and sharing, as I think it opens the door for others to share and support each other, and that’s something I absolutely adore about the blogging community!

What relaxes you when you’re stressed out?