*) do something ANYTHING different immediately to catch W off guard. what is this - I don't know. Maybe take boys to parents tonight and have a nice dinner, come home tomorrow.
1) Relax. Give up the need to feel like I have control over the situation. Let little setbacks and whatever W says bounce off. don't take the bait.
2) Do not hang around W, or hover nearby in house. Walk around with something to do - a book to read, a movie to watch, etc. Say little but be positive when we talk. Or find somewhere else to be.
3) Do not get moody or pissy. Forgive W for her part. Forgive myself for mine. Stay optimistic and confident. Help others - don't focus so much on myself.
4) Encourage W to do what it takes to get herself together. Take boys to give her space and time. Hey, if this EA/PA is going to happen me hovering around isn't going to stop it.
5) Exercise. Not like usual. Find a goal. Maybe a half-marathon - there's one in May nearby. Something that requires committment and will feel like an accomplishment.
5) Hang out with positive people. but do not share this with them - I want these people to be potential friends of W later on.
6) Stay busy. Very busy. Insanely busy.
7) Help oldest son with his challenges in middleschool - he is facing some of the same things I did. Make sure he doesn't have to overcome what I do down the road.
8) read, read, read some of these recommended books. listen to ipod, play with dog.
9) watch Raiders and the Dirty Dozen - my chill out and relax movies.
