Wow! I can't believe it's been since April since I last posted. As I have entered year 3 since BD, things have just settled into the new normal with the occasional craziness from my XW.
My oldest D16 just got her license and we got her a call for her birthday. She is so responsible and it has been great to see her mature as she has gotten part-time job at a fast food place and has focused on her studies. I couldn't be more proud and life has really stabilized for her.
My youngest D14 (turns 14 tomorrow) is still busy with dance and school. She has really good chance of being a professional dancer so I continue to support her on her journey. We went to Orlando this summer for a dance competition and then met my family in Florida for a beach vacation. It was the best trip that I have had since BD.
As for XW, she has been slowly doing more for our kids which I am grateful for. She still isn't stable, often forgets things, and needs my help with the kids more when she has them (we split custody 50/50). Funny story. Probably the craziest thing is she called me from the ER to help come get her and take her home when she extreme back pain. While I picked her up, she had to have a virtual call with her counselor as she would charged if she cancelled last minute. I literally went to pick up her medicine for her while she sat in the parking lot talking to her counselor.
For those that haven't followed my story, my XW almost died over 10 years ago and spent over 3 months in the hospital. I was her caregiver throughout her marriage as she dealt with a chronic GI condition. I honestly felt conflicted when she asked for me help, but I finally decided I would do the minimum to help her in need while my kids still live with her full time. Things will change later when the kids are in college but I don't want my kids to remember that I ever abandoned their mother. Now, I do it for them and not for my XW.
Most importantly is that my life has been really settling down. My work was really crazy at the beginning of the year but the recent months have been really positive. I feel back to my normal self which really feels wonderful. I am also excited to go spend time with my Dad and two brothers at my brother's cottage in PA later this month.
Lastly I have really come to peace with the D and accepted my XW's current journey. I am lonely at times but also know that my focus needs to be on me and my kids right now. It would be nice to find someone someday but it will come in the right time.
Appreciate everyone's stories as I still read often and will continue to post from time-to-time when I have interesting things to share.
HF