Kimmerz, An excellent subject line and thread! You've come a long way and yes, through the pain we experience, we learn and grow.
Christmas will be very different this year for you and your girls. New traditions and new friends along the way. Wrap yourself up in the love of family and friends so that it will keep you warm during those times of backsliding.
You are doing great!
Sit quietly, the answers will reveal themselves when you least expect them to. The past is gone, the present is a gift and you need to focus on today, allow the future to reveal itself when it is ready.