Yup, I am also very familiar with the MLC running away! My H was so good at that, and fortunately it is getting a lot less noticeable. Anytime he spent any time with the family or did anything that might be perceived as "nice" he would "disappear" for a couple of days. He doesn't seem to do that so much now at all. He is still away from home more than is good for the kids but that is his problem and his loss.
Christmas Eve here we did our usual family traditions which focus on the religious aspect and then the kids were sitting on the couch cuddling with me and H was sitting in a different chair. My D looks over at him and said, "Daddy, you should be sitting over here, too." Truer words were never spoken! He didn't say anything and didn't come over, but the kids and I just playing and talking and laughing together. He kept getting up and leaving the room and then coming back in, sitting down, leaving again. It was almost like he wasn't sure how he belonged anymore.
I am glad you made plans for NYE and didn't wait on your H. I'm also glad he was home with you on Christmas. It is hard to remain patient when they seem so much more like themselves isn't it? I am seeing so much more of the man my H used to be these days that it is hard not to want to push. In my mind though I know there are no guarantees and I want him to work through his issues.
I am with you on putting 2009 to bed. It has truly been the worst year of my life and I am ready for a clean slate so to speak. I am planning on making my 2010 the best it can be and looking forward to it!
