Cinders: The gift really isn't all that exciting - just a very big itunes gift certificate so he can get stuff for his appletv. The reasons why are complicated, which is why I didn't mention it. Plus, I feel like I chronicle WAY too much about what goes on with H. Been practicing leaving the little details out to focus more on the big picture, but not having much success!
OC: Yeah, I do see some positives in what's going on with H and how he's opening up. But like you said, I can usually expect him to retreat as soon as he moves forward, so I do my best to not make anything out of his actions. I just want to be consistent with mine.
Upside: As you of all people know, it's so hard to not have expectations when they make the smallest step in the right direction. I'm conditioning myself to take the word and meaning of expectations out of my vocabulary and my mind so there is less room for disappointment. I think it may require shock treatment.
