Thank you so much. I had a long, difficult, and involved day yesterday, so I wasn't able to post. I'll reply here to your comments and hopefully not lock up the thread. I'll also put some updates in this as well. So, it may be long, but I've got a bit to say, I guess...:)
Kalni: I'm glad you did check in before bed as it was wonderful to hear from you. I am taking the gloves off a bit after meeting w/ the L (more on that below) and I'm saddened by it, but I have no real choice as this is the path W chose to put us on. My L also believes the letters will end up being worthless as they are mostly hearsay.
Jeff: Yes, she has made a huge jump into the deepest of the deep ends it seems. I am documenting everything I can and saving all relevant texts and e-mail, so I should be able to state a good case.
Bizarre: I agree that it is time to step up the case on my side, although I am doing it w/ a heavy heart. The problem w/ ending this now is she will want and get full custody of D and I'll only get her 2 weekends a month. If I quit, I lose D. So, I'm prepared to have my name smeared if it means I'll get my fair time w/ my D. I'll fill you all in on the specifics of my visit w/ L in a bit.
Kerry: I can only hope the courts and the evaluator will see this for the garbage it truly is. I also LOVED your comment on the BRATZ doll. That is one I'd love to fire out against her, but I really can't do that as it woudl be counter-productive. Tempting, but counter-productive.
ND: I'm so sorry you are in this place as well. It really sucks. I'm glad to know it will get better, but I hate that others are here with me as I know how awful this whole thing is. The allegations do hurt, but they are just allegations and I know the truth. Those who know me, know the truth. W knows the truth as well. The patience and time waiting is so difficult. I hate it and I want to give in, but I know I can't and won't. It just consumes you so much you want it all to stop.
SBX: I'm glad you decided to join in. Thanks for your feedback. I also love the story about your brother and his tough, bad a** father-in-law. Nice guys did finish 1st in this case and I can only hope for a repeat in my case. I hope you'll continue to come back and check in.
Nut: Nice to hear from you again. I'm sure you are getting ready for your AP test that is quickly coming at us. I'm going to play hard ball, but I don't like it. However, you are right, if I don't show strength, then I'll be crushed. I like the fact we let them fire 1st, so now we know their game plan as well as how to defend our position. I'll stay strong, but it does still sting. However, the important thing is my D. She is the focus and always will be.
SPM: I'm so glad to have you back. I've missed your words of wisdom and support. I'm also so sickened that you are in this place as well. It should be criminal. I'm serious too. Like you, I'm guilty until proven innocent in the eyes of society and W gets to say and do whatever she wants w/ out consequences. I'm hoping that will turn around. We are similar in another aspect, my man, as I too was beginning to "believe the hype" from W that I was a bad husband, person, and father. I know too well how easy it is to begin to believe if you hear it enough. I'm much better at tuning it out now, but it still bothers me. The pain and sting is real from reading W's words as well as the words of those who I thought knew and loved me. They were like family to me and it really hurts as I've known them for the past 12 years. They should know better. When do you actually become a real part of a family? How much time should it take?
Ali: Hey there! I'm behind on your sitch again because of my past few days, so I'll try to catch up with you today. Anyway, thanks for your support and friendship, as usual. I can hope that things will balance out and I will prevail, but yes, it does hurt. I think you can imagine how it would feel. I don't want to get tougher w/ W, but this is the path she's chosen, so I'm left w/ the choice of fight on or give in to her. Giving in to her is not an option, so I have to put a bit of fire on the fire.
I have to run and interview a potential teacher for next year, but I'll come back and update you on yesterday's event later today.
