Leah,

I never paid much thought to it before but I think you are on to something - the importance of taking the time to get additional sunlight.  I have started eating my lunches outside recently in part just to escape the sounds of the telephones ringing at the desk or the sounds of TV's playing while in the lunchroom.  The other big advantage is that I can escape a sea of ultraviolet lights and get some fresh air and "escape" (if only for a half hour) . 

I never really paid attention to the difference the sun might also play in my desire to leave the office.  When it's sunny I am out there like a moth to the flame - too bad I get burned so easily!!  For me small doses of sun while outside with friends can really change my mental outlook on life.  I will have to try to compare and contrast the effect the sunny days have from the cloudy ones. 

Just remember that each day ...even the gloomiest one... has a bright spot somewhere...it might be elusive but if you search hard enough...you will find it...too bad it might not have the added bonus of Vitamin D however .       

Thanks so much for your post Leah - you sounds great!  And this is a super topic.  I even notice it whenmy kids have not been outside in the sunlight.  Of course they just want to run and swim and play.  But it really does change their disposition.  And mine.

Anyway - good luck with your experiment.  Let us know what the blood tests look like.

All the best, sue

Here are a few other posts/articles on lighting.

Lighting May Increase Quality of Life for People With Alzheimer’s

Study Highlights Influence of Light Levels and Melatonin for Alzheimer's

Lighting Up Alzheimer's - Video