Hi Mleigh, it sounds like you are doing well, and hats off to you with the MIL dealings. I agree with the expectations of yourself. This is how I try to operate nowadays. Before I was often motivated by, what do I think they expect of me? Which I realise now is giving my power away - it's a work in progress, but I always try and take it back now. I had an example recently where my Dad was lecturing giving me some unwanted advice. I came away really annoyed about that. Next time I saw him I kindly told him I'm able to take care of that myself and I know he always means well and I'll ask him if I do want some advice.
Your trip plans sound lovely. Beach front house in Malibu?? I'm in!! Good luck with the counselling. I hope your H attends and participates constructively.
Take care xx
T 13 M 7 Me 48 H 46 SS 15 BD 7.14 PA D final 5.16 (H filed)
We receive & we lose, and must try to achieve gratitude & embrace with whole hearts whatever of life that remains after the losses - Dubus