SRL,
Prior to the "dark times" with difficult child - fall of 2003 into spring of 2004 - I used to do tons of stuff outside my "mother and wife" responsibilities. I used to substitute teach, I used to kindergarten aide, I used to direct children's dramas at school and church, I used to lead the children's choir at my church, I was the assistance financial director at church, yada, yada, yada......
When difficult child began having tough issues, it affected me in two ways. Health-wise, I didn't sleep well at all and I found myself (sorta like your peanut butter jar) comforting with food without consciously being aware of it. That's when I began packing on the additional 75 pounds on top of my already overwieght self.
The second area was in my volunteer and special interest stuff. Not only did I not have the energy anymore, but I felt like I had to always be within phone and "rush to school" contact. I could no longer take difficult child along to rehearsals and such because I couldn't trust him and was embarrassed by his behavior and it just exhausted me.
I began slowly giving up the things that made me happy. But the second part of the equation is that I did need to give up some things because difficult child needed the calm, quiet time to get himself "back in order". He needed to come home from school and do nothing.
The change in activity and structure was telling in the activity level. I was eating more and moving less. Never a good combo!
I've slowly begun to gather up myself again. I now am very, very, very aware of the time I give of myself to others. My priority is myself and my children. I will not do for others if it sacrifices my energy or needs of the kids. I first look at my needs before going outside myself. Then, I look at the needs within my church before going out in the community - priorities.
I've also found, that since becomming a home mom, that maintaining a schedule really helps. I make that list every Sunday night and have specific days I do certain chores. It keeps me on task.
I think that any change in our lives throws other areas out of wack. As long as we recognize it, that's half the battle. Your medications are definately a weight adder. I remember when easy child was on the pred I tried my darnest to have healthy food within her grasp! On the counters, right in the front of the fridge, etc.
Trinity, I agree with your doctor. You had such a busy summer, you could use this down time for a little while. Use it to accomplish some things around the house that went neglected while you were away so much. Use it to contact old friends. Hand write notes in your Christmas cards. Clean out closets and drawers for old winter clothes, coats, hats and gloves to give to a shelter. And, for sure just take a nap on the couch!!!!!!!!!!
I am most imporessed that you still have Halloween candy left!
Sharon
Maybe you will be able to keep up with those dance lessons. 
