As for the pics, W often avoided being in pics pre crises. Never liked attention being drawn to her because she never really liked herself. But now she is opening up and coming out of her shell... something I always hoped she could do. (without bailing on me of course!)

It's her new life outside the M where she is beginning to like herself, and considers it pic worthy. My question is why is she going out of her way to show me these pics? I'm thinking this is a good thing, no? Allowing me to be part of her new life?

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Today W and I were talking about the party we went to yesterday. She lamented the fact that the hostesses Dad, a lovable guy who was at the party, has serious health problems related to lifestyle choices that he just refuses to change. W then went on to say "but at least he's a happy person", and how one can do everything right health wise, but still not "be happy".

(gosh I'm beginning to hate this silly idea of "being happy", like you either always are or always aren't...) :rolls eyes:

So... figuring this is an open door, I say...

Do you consider yourself a happy person?

W: At times. I know I have some issues and things I need to work on/figure out. I figure something's gotta give soon.

I could hardly believe my ears!

Me, In a very matter of fact manner: "That's what I figure."

Then after a short pause, I went on to say that I believe everyone needs to figure out their own happiness.

I didn't want to press the subject any more, so we soon moved on. And no, she never asked me if I considered myself a "happy" person!

M: A really long time.
Crisis: 5 years.
She's still worth it.

Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose. -Viktor Frankl