Hi everyone.  Sorry for being absent over the past couple of weeks (not that anyone noticed), but a lot has happened.  Not too much I want to share openly at this point in time, but suffice to say that people in your life can truly surprise you at times in how understanding and wonderful they are.  And I just wanted to share the thought that although this process might be full of self-doubt, insurmountable obstacles, and some extreme lows, there are times when someone you never expected shows you that life can be truly amazing.

Avatar changed to reflect this!  Gone is the old sad face.  I hope it stays away too.

Didn't mean to ramble, but I really wanted to let anyone out there who is not feeling too great right now know that things really do get better.  And thanks to you all for being so supportive, because this community does mean a lot.

Hi baby! I am so glad things are going well and the sad face is gone. Mine is to, I have gone part time, but it will not last too long because it is too depressing and stifling to go back to "him". Full time Feb 1st. I am glad you are happy and living how you need to. Congrats baby!

Hi Michele,
What a joy it is to see that avatar smile!!!!
Well I'm really glad to see that things are picking up for you. God knows, you have gone through some difficult times. There were times that I thought she would never smile. You are right, this is a difficult road we travel but there are times that life can be truly amazing and wonderful. It is at those times we realise that everything we do in life is worthwhile and it is also at those times that our self doubt is overcome by the love of who we are and who our true friends are.
Keep smiling.............it was worth the wait.
Ciara.

I'm glad to see some smiling on your avatar!

Life has it's ups and downs.  When we are facing the downs, it's easy to forget about all the ups and the potential future ones.  Then you get shocked and pleasantly surprised when it hits you!

That's great news, hope the sad face avatar stays away too. But where'd your name go?

I am happy for you.

I like the happy face.

Very happy to hear that I hope it continues.

Emily.T xx