Hello,

Here is an update of what I've been doing- volunteering with an HIV/AIDS non-profit, creating a new website, and dating; and spending time with family. I have been volunteering for about a month. Already, I feel empowered by the projects I've been working on- marketing materials, such as public service announcements and brochures. I even received business cards, which makes me feel good and a part of the staff.

Also, I have created a new website that includes a forum for people with mental illness, caregivers, family, and friends. The website just went live a week ago and I am so excited to have the resources to further mental illness advocacy. I encourage everyone to check out the website, sign the guestbook, and join the forum at Embracing My Mind (EMM), http://embracingmymind.org.

I started dating again. We have been dating for about two months now, and things are going well. I have not told him about my schizophrenia, yet, because I am not that comfortable yet. Is it even necessary to tell someone who you are dating that you have a mental illness? I don't think he knows much about schizophrenia.

Latley, my family has been hosting a lot of barbaques, which are a lot of fun. It allows me to socialize more, which is great!

Thank you for listening!

Take care,

Ashley