I’ve been so conditioned to believe that you MUST be there for you family, no matter what. In the end, it’s resulted in more heartbreak than anyone should have to go through. I deserve more and dont owe anyone anything. No more putting my life and feelings on hold.

You are very right. If a friend did this to me, chances are we wouldn’t be friends anymore. Yet, with family I just kept letting it happen.

Happy to share the funny image with ya.

I just imagined a mini pig and Gizmo packing a suitcase for a crazy adventure and it was amazing.

I hope the kid does too.

This is fantastic. I don’t know your arsenal, but your pics never disappoint and are always perfect.

I agree, there are some things that cannot be fixed. I just have to be strong as I accept that and step away from the situation.

Your comments are always awesome and this time is no different.

Youre comment came off just fine. Actually, better than fine. Thank you for being honest.

I’m really excited about planning my escape and look forward to seeing where things go. I’m also happy about taking my life back.

It’s hard to see this as a trauma, but it’s the best word describe all of it. You’re right, I do need time and SPACE to heal. I haven’t really given myself to grieve my loss, because I went straight to fixing things. Everything just plopped on top of that and it’s become this suffocating pain, I’ve just had to deal…

I agree with it all. Nephew has to start figuring stuff out himself. If he needs help, he can go to his dad.

I’ve been saying the same thing about the teen and the response hasn’t been great. But it’s good to know I’m not the only one that thinks it won’t end well if he doesn’t take control and responsibility of his life.

I’ve laid it bare, so there’s no barging here at all.

As I’m writing this, I’m getting a bit teary.

Yeah, it’s what’s best. We can’t keep going on like this. It’s not healthy.

“Boundaries & self-preservation,” were things I didn’t really think applied to me, because everyone else’s needs came first. Then everything came to a head and I couldn’t ignore just how bad things were any longer. I’ve neglected myself for too long and not really sure where I begin. Thankfully I’m surrounded by…

Thank you for your words. I can’t say how much it means to lay out this raw situation I’m in and be met with kindness. Thank you for not judging me.

My Christmas prank? I’m running away from my family. No, I really am and please try not to judge me for it too harshly. I’ll explain as best as I can, but only so much can be relayed without parts missing and my fingers getting cramped from typing.

Never heard about this, but now I’m pulled in. I will admit, I clicked at first because the person on the left bears a striking resemblance(to me at least) to Blair from “The Facts of Life.” Sometimes I don’t look at the title that closely(or at all of I’m in a rush). Now down this rabbit hole with Google I go.