hi slowly--
i love reading the posts that people have written to you about the differences you've made in their lives!

i wanted to share with you a baby step i've made, because your help has really given my a lot of comfort and encouragement during this time....and i think you and all of our friends on this site should "share credit".

on friday i met with my W so that i could pick up my mail and the house keys. i am moving back in next week and she has found a place of her own. (not sure if she's moving with the OM or not...didn't ask). well when we met she gave me a big hug and as we sat down for dinner she held my hand. (i was very surprised.) we had a very pleasant conversation and it was very apparent that there was an emotional connection that has been missing for awhile. i complemented her on her appearance and she blushed and smiled! she did the same for me and i think i did the same thing.

as we reached her car, we both had the feeling that this is a "goodbye" of sorts, as she is moving out of the apartment. i said something to the effect of "i guess there won't be many times when we 'have' to see each other anymore"....and she replied, "i hope we still choose to". i replied that i would like that. then we hugged and as we hugged she started to cry. i mean really, really cry! she whispered "I'm sorry" in my ear as we embraced. i didn't say anything at that point...i thought it best to just continue to hold her. i then told her that i just wanted her to be happy...and she told me the same thing. then he stopped hugging and her eyes were red and full of tears. i grabbed her hand and said some nice things and then we kissed....for an extended period....not one of those 'bedroom' kisses but very loving just the same.

as i turned to walk away i made sure to smile at her (she said the first thing she noticed about me was my smile) and she smiled back, through the tears.

now, i know that our separation continues....and i know that she is still with the OM....but i also feel this was a really positive baby step for us to take. and i also really feel that it wouldn't be possible without the help of friends like YOU!!! you have made a difference in my life and i want to be here for you too!!

it sounds like you are on the right path with your goals and all of us here are with you!!

hugs and kisses
ranacan