Another one joins the flock (Part II)

[Mike85]

Wife brought the kids back last night, along with their laundry.

Usual routine - about 15 minutes of chit-chat, a hug and a kiss, and off she went.

It was obvious that my sons missed me. They wanted to watch a particular episode of "Mystery Science Theater 3000" (Pod People) with me, have popcorn, and curl up next to me. Oldest son said that he and his brother were quoting lines all weekend from the episode we were watching and that wife's bf was getting annoyed with them because of it. Maybe he didn't like the "in" jokes. Older son also said that bf got snarky when they were fishing, snapping at him and his brother when they did something wrong, didn't follow his instructions, etc. I'm keeping an ear open for any hint of bf saying or doing anything out of line with regard to the kids. I don't want be overprotective because of jealousy, but they're the ones over whom I have the greatest duty, and the guy is an alcoholic with no experience with kids.

Late last night, old friend of mine, Kris, called. We met way back in my sophomore year of college ('85), and I became a big brother to her and her roommate Cindy. We've been good friends ever since. I left her a voicemail about the jobhunt and an update on my sitch. We talked for at least an hour. It's amazing how discussing the situation with the right people can help clarify things so much. I realized how screwed up my wife is and conversely, how much stronger I've become. Yeah, I still have my moments of sadness and depression (lately right after I wake up), but I'm getting on with my life. It doesn't seem so utterly hopeless for us or for me anymore. I -and we- have a hell of a lot further to go, but overall, it's getting a little better day by day. I think the new job will help.

Well, it's supposed to hit 90°F today, so if the weather holds, the kids & I will play in the pool, grill up some hot dogs, and have some fun.