Mixed Signals or Just My Imagination ?

[native]

So, Chrismas is fast approaching, we have be physically seperated almost three months, and there is no OM in the pic.

W is experiencing panic attacks in addition to the depression, so in some way, things are not getting better for her. Her anger phase seems to have passed.

She feels ok about her financial situation for the moment, but I think she feels regret about impulse buying a junker BMW without really checking it out ahead of time. Heat is almost non-functioning and it has no airbags....oh well, its her decision.

Since it is very clear that my W's love language is gifts, and that is something I really did not do on a regular basis, causing some doubt in her as to the validity of my love ( I am an acts of service person), I am thinking about a gift for her.

After 'going dark' for about 2 mos. I have seen her start to soften and the anger dissappear. No dates yet, but she has initiated 'family time' which is a new development. I think she is also shaken by the recent panic attacks.

But back to the gift. Since I was not a great gift giver in the past, and that was one of the things that really hurt her, and since she told her cousin she is 'thinking' of 'taking me back', I am thinking of gifts this Christmas.

I am seriously considering jewelry and went looking last night at Macy's. I don't think I will spend over $200, but I think it will be a good move.

I am sure that she would reconcile if I make a successfull career change as well, but in this economy, after 18 yrs of owning my own business ( which is paying the bills right now), it is not, and hasn't been, an easy transition.

Also, I am looking at a part time job at a wine bar, to make some extra cash, get out of the house and do something fun.

W thought it was a good idea. I have a lot more time on my hands now that she is actually helping with the childcare.

Any thoughts ? I'm really thinking the gift idea is a good one at this time.