This time of year takes me back to memories of Alaska. As soon as it started to get colder and darker, many people would venture inside and seemingly not emerge until spring. For some, it was a cozy season and, for many, a lonely one.

  

At PEPS, we know about the harmful effects that loneliness has on our health, particularly in the weeks and months following the arrival of a new baby. I recently had a chance to talk about post-partum loneliness with Seattle Mama Doc, Dr. Swanson, on KUOW. Sometimes when we are with our new baby, we don't realize what we're feeling is loneliness. We can feel lonely when suddenly it's the least alone that we've ever been - this tiny baby is with you all the time.

  

Regardless of stage of life, when you don't feel like yourself, when you feel low on energy, when you experience a hard time, or have only spoken to your child(ren) for days, I'm giving you a gentle push to pick up the phone and call - or even better - get some facetime with a friend. We need each other, and sometimes that is easy to forget.

  

We have a great newsletter for you this month. If something inspires you, share it with a friend you haven't heard from in a while. Thank you for reading and for being a part of our community.

  

Warm wishes of connection,