An update

[Associate of Daniel]

When I look back on the AOD of my original posts on this forum of so many year ago, I see a struggling middle aged woman who had no dreams and no thought of life looking any different from what it was at that time.

But, here's where I'm at now:

Ds has "aged out".  He's now 19, finished school and is a wonderful, personable, responsible young man.  We have a beautiful relationship, although, as he now finds his way in the big wide world, I'm seeing less of him and he is developing interests and opinions different from my own.

I'm debt free, including the mortgage.  I'm investing for retirement, despite being on a low income.

I'm studying a diploma of counselling.I don't know if that will lead to further qualifications or working in the field but it is helpful in every day life anyway.

I created and regularly post on my website and it is receiving positive feedback. (I even received a gift from a reader the other day!)

I have no contact with my uNPD exH and his uNPD wife.

I have not found myself a second husband, despite the divorce being more than 12 years ago.  I am open to some attention though. (although scared)

I do sometimes struggle with memories of the pd stuff but I'm far healthier mentally and emotionally than I was.

So, there is hope, everyone.  I only have one child so my journey and struggles have been shorter than many other people's.

Looking back, there are times I cannot fathom how I got through.  I'm reminded of the "Footprints" poem.  The only explanation is that God carried me.  I could not have arrived here without Him.

AOD

[Pinkos]

Thank you for this uplifting message, AOD! I sometimes despair and feel like nothing good will happen especially coming out of the holidays. Whew!

[1footouttadefog]

My kids are adults now.  My youngest is in her last semester at Uni, and will likely hire on with the company she has an extended internship with.  Basically working 10-15 hours w week during the semester.
My oldest is three years into a career job and recently got a promotion and pay raise. Soon they will both be making mod 70's or higher which is not bad at all for our region. 

I am soon am empty nester and am trying to put the house in order and complete a backlog of unfinished maintenance and other projects. 

All this and I am still not quite on the other side.  My PDH is declining.  He is currently in the phyche hospital.  I wonder at times when will it be time to find him another arrangement.  It seems like the physical and mental decline is linen two horses running neck and neck only it's not fast. 

Having the kids up and out of huge.  I always felt like just let me raise the kids and all else will be a bonus. 

It's bonus time now.   

[SeaBreeze]

Thank you for this inspiring update, AoD! Here's to coming out in one piece (or should I say peace) on the other side.

[MaxedOut]

What a great update, AOD. Happy for you!