A few months ago, I started watching my baby grandson a couple of days a week.

As he grew, I wanted him to explore his world. I’d spread out a quilt, and lay him on it, then I would get down on the floor with him, so we could interact.

Though I’m young at heart and appearance, I’m not as young as I used to be. While I got down there easily enough, getting back up was, well, a challenge.

The knee that has never been the same since a fall at work joins the back and joints that are not as flexible and nimble, and have slowed my ascent.

I walk regularly. I do yoga and tai chi. I’m not overweight…I’m just older!

The more important thing for me is getting down there on baby level. Now he crawls, so I crawl around with him.

Today I was with my 22 month old twin sons. As I have since I’ve been here the last couple of weeks, I get down on their level. We play. Wrestle. Laugh!!

Nana just doesn’t jump right back up like she used to.

I always get back up, though.

There are times life has brought me low- either by my poor choices, or just the path I was on.

I’ve struggled with major depressive disorder for almost thirty years.

There are down days – but I know I’ve got to keep moving. Get back up!!

November is the most loaded month of the year for me.

I’m exercising more regularly now, and have started my half marathon training again. Diabetes knocked me down – but I’m getting back up.

I’ll be as prepared as I can be for next month. Praying. Going to church. Loving my family. Being healthy.

I know I may still get down…but I’m not afraid to ask for a hand if I need it, to get back up again, and move forward, one step at a time.

So, friends, I’m up. But there is a perspective and depth to my life I can only get when I’m down.

I just refuse to stay there.