The past year of 2015 will go down in my books as the toughest time period of my life. It was especially challenging to get through those early dark days of trauma. Fortunately, I landed on some blogs and websites that helped me get through sleepless nights and anxiety-filled days. I could create an endless list but here are some of my favorites.

BLOGS

• When I need some hope and encouragement in the way of simple and meaningful messages, I go to the Rose and Daisy blog. One of my favorite posts called Morning Glory/Recovery Dailies is a beautiful garden analogy about daily habits that lead to recovery. This blog also has an excellent example of boundaries.
• Write Forest Write is a blog written by therapist, Forest Benedict. He has some great advice about educating teens to understand the pitfalls of viewing pornography. He also uses great resources from the Christian community. My favorite post: Called into Uncertainty.
• For a unique perspective and hopeful outlook, I read Bra Badges: because having a porn-addicted husband isn’t something you wear on your sleeve.  The clever title demonstrates the creative focus of this blogger. My favorite post, With What Is, reminds me to find joy in the present.
• In the early days of trauma, I was desperately seeking something that would describe what addict recovery looks like. I Would Rather Not Be Here has a post that gave me exactly the information that I needed: What Recovery Looks Like in My Home.
• The Dear Addi blog gives excellent advice to sex addict husbands.  A Wife in Mourning describes perfectly some of my feelings. It outlines specific losses that an LDS wife experiences when her husband is a sex addict.

WEBSITES

• The Hope and Healing Blog and Forum is one of my life-lines. I love being able to ask questions and get advice from other brave women on the forum who have already walked this path. This site also has countless resources for women affected by a loved one’s sexual addiction. This site was created as a pure act of love to serve women who often feel alone in this trial.
• I was a bit cynical about trying self-compassion meditations but I am now convinced that this stuff works. Self Compassion by Dr. Kristen Nef has guided audio self-compassion exercises that are easy to follow and very relaxing.
• During a desperate moment, I tried this fun science-based site called Happify. There are inspiring stories, memes, and articles. It’s just full of happy things!

• Brene Brown is one of my favorite writers right now. Her website, Courage Works, offers online classes and inspiring stories. I recommend her free online course The Anatomy of Trust.
• The very first site I encountered while researching LDS sex addiction was Rowboat and Marbles. This is a must-read site for any LDS member dealing with sexual addiction issues. I keep extra copies of the book Sitting in a Rowboat Throwing Marbles at a Battleship at home and have already shared it with family and friends who are struggling. I’ve also given copies to some of my Priesthood leaders. Thank you, author Andrew Pipanne, for your courage and forthright discussions.