Oh-I can relate all too much. I had a manic episode in 2010that lasted from April to dec. 5th. Not enough time to tell you all the things and people I thought I was!
I have felt like a negative copy of myself since then. It's been horrible and I have to deal with all the terrible stuff I did. I started seroquel in jan. and that's been helpful.
I wish it was like on tv where the crazy person takes meds and is better in 3 days. It is taking awhile to get the right meds-like years.
I'm glad you're "back" even though being Santa sounds like a cool job : )