Hi Rob, Good to read your long post and to see you integrating what changes and growth and goals are needed for YOU. I see progress here, in many ways.

Good that you caught yourself, re: passive-aggressive doesn't work.

Good that you realize that it is human to be upset when a gossippy vindictive meddler tries to interfere in your life, but even better to realize it is a choice how you react to that person, and you do not need to let her run your life or day.

Good that you are sensitive and compassionate regarding your wife's health, needs, etc.

Good that you have set some wonderful goals for yourself, and for time with your family. Especially your health goals - "CA chick" here wants to see everyone quit smoking and exercise - so you have big support from me on that, and you will feel so much better too, just from doing that! As well as role model health for your kids. And be around for them longer.

A mountain of goods piling up there - good for you!

I know it is hard sometimes to keep the PMA going, especially when the progress seems so slow on the R front... I think the GAL activities will help you so much with the patience factor. Rob, you are a great husband and a great father. I see so much progress here in your sitch. Keep it going

- your PMA cheerleader

PositivelyListening
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When one door of happiness closes, another one opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us. - Helen Keller