Hey Pal,
I am glad I picked today to see how things were going with you and yours.

first - a side bar to Matilda. I used to work in the disability field, and Iearned that everything you are saying about your BIL and his need to be independent from his parents is critical and so true. They really do need to dump the martyr attitude. However they are from another time when children who were viewed as different were not "allowed" to blossom in any way. But stick to your guns on this one Mattie, and perhaps things may change.

Andy... ebb and flow for sure.... I wouldn't give up on your dreams... not at all. It just might have to happen in a dfferent way. As your other children finish school and college and move on with their lives you might be surprised how they will want to help you both... but it won't be for a while yet. Who knows how things will unfold.

Blood tests.. and fatigue... might also be a case of low iron levels. Just as bombed dropped for me, and I got the 'never enough sex" speech (mostly true) I learned that I was border line anaemic. Have been on high doses of iron and LOTS of red meat and it has made a difference. I am fortunate however to not have to work all day with a special needs kid. That would be exhausting.

Andy, does W still feel resentment, do you know, at the fact that you are the one leaving home everyday? I m sure that intellectually she understands someone has to bring home the bacon but is this a "thing" for her?

My H too, makes disparaging comments about our neighbours who've deep 6'ed their marriages. If it wasn't so bizarre, his comments would be funny given what we are living. Your gotta shake your head. It might just lead me into serreptious OR talks [Eek!]

And hey... fireworks once in a while... as long as it is sincere... that's gotta be a step in the right direction.

take care & HUGS

tree