sounds like you are doing great Lucas! it is great you've found yourself and have become closer to her kids.

I agree with you, MLC should not be an excuse but it fits your W to a T. Hope you've learned by now to not drown her with gifts \:\) just keep it simple or she'll think you are trying to buy her love (mother's day is coming up)

I've also been M 13yrs and have 2 kids. Again, you sound like you are doing good, do expect a rollercoaster (well, you've seen that happening here) when there are days you just dont think you can make it. Know it is a long road but you are already on the right path. A great book about separated couples is "getting back together", perhaps it might help you.

Be not afraid...I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten Joel2

30something
2kids
survivor of S, MLC, A, D
I have peace in my heart, at last.