I had this really, really long (boring) post typed because if I didn’t record the events of the last 20 months somewhere, no one would believe me if I told them in 10 years time. I’ve decided to keep it to myself but just let you know that if I’d been a bit vague or made a promise I didn’t keep in the last 20 months, I’m sorry. It’s because I was waiting for a lot of stuff to happen.
Having my marriage end in January last year and my Mother pass away 2 months later in March was a very difficult time and I suffered psychologically, mentally, physically and emotionally. The only thing that kept me going was my spiritual beliefs and my children.
After a
very long and intense time with property settlement, child custody arrangements, home loan applications etc, I’m now the proud owner of my children’s family home and have the huge task of renovating and putting my own personal touch on it after 13 years. I can’t wait to get started. We’re less than 5 minutes from the children’s schools, shops, doctors, parks, close to the hospital and the beach. I’m at a new stage in my life but it really is the opportunity to get back to the person I used to be.
So, to anyone who I’ve met in the last 20 months, whether it be online or in person, and you’ve been waiting for an answer or response to something from me and I never answered, I’m sorry.
To my children’s school and group organisers who were wanting volunteers to help with various things and I said I would but didn’t, I’m sorry. Most often than not, I’d be off crying behind my sunglasses but keeping up appearances.To my sisters, my other family members, neighbours who only got the shell of a version of me, I’m sorry.
To my special, special friends from near and far, who phoned me, popped around, asked me out for coffee and listened, thank you, with all my heart!
To my precious, gorgeous, patient children, I’m sorry. I’m sorry for all the times Mummy had to have a lie down in the afternoon because it was just too hard to cope. I’m sorry we didn’t go for as many walks or drives to the beach as I would’ve liked. I’m sorry that you missed out on me buying you things you really wanted. One thing is for sure. You are the reason I’m still here today. The times I crept into your room and saw you sleeping, the hugs you gave me, your little faces full of excitement when it was your birthday or Christmas. You gave me the will to live.
My lovely little doggies, you are my saving grace. You watched every tear fall to the floor and looked at me with compassion in your eyes. I couldn’t have done it without you.
Don’t feel sorry for me but be excited. I’m back baby!
Tough times give way to better times.
God bless you!
Angie
godsgrowinggarden.com
Whew! What courage you have to have written that post! I'm so happy so much of the burden has been lifted…when one chapter is closed another begins. Make this chapter a great one!
Christine
You've come through a terrible storm Anne. I'm very proud to know you as a friend.
I'm one of your newer blog friends and was pretty much unaware of all of this, but I am excited for you and I'm glad you are looking at a new beginning! I've been there myself and it is a long road, but it sounds like you have arrived!
Anne I'm so happy for you! What doesn't kill us makes us stronger.
Oh my sweet Anne, tears of joy for you my love. I know the last 20 months haven't been easy for you. Despite it all and watching from cyber sidelines you have done remarkably well. Through any life changing times in life there is that time (like your last twenty months) that just has to happen for you to walk through as hard as it is at times. But when you arrive at the other side it's a reminder and inspiration for chasing greatness in your life now the path and your head is clearer.
I'm most super excited for you baby you're back, it's going to be great. All my love. X
Oh Anne I have tears in my eyes now! Stay strong Girl…sending Love and Hugs your way…and Happy Renovating! yOU GO GIRL xoxxo
Yes Anne, what everybody else has said. I too had a similar experience with a long term relationship some 10 years ago and although I hated it at the time, I learned to rely on myself, trust my gut feeling about things and people and allowed me to figure out what I did and didn't want. So, take a deep breath and dive right in.
Barb XO
Well done Anne.
I am so glad you feel back on an even keel. Life gets complicated sometimes.
Take care.
xx
This blog post makes me so happy! You've really done an amazing job over the past couple of years and you deserve ALL THE GOOD THINGS. xx
Onward and upward lovely lady!!!
It is pretty hard to be this honest on the internet. You are amazing, I started following your blog just as everything hit the fan last January. Although I understood I was disappointed when you said the blog had to stop for a while. I was thrilled when that while was waaaaayyyyy shorter than you intended. Love what you do. You must be an amazing mum. Well done.
So proud of you Anne you deserve nothing but happiness xx
I dont think you need to be sorry for anything. Youve been through a really rough trot hun.
So happy to see that things are on the up and up! xo
Wow, Anne, I am so incredibly moved! First off, please don't be sorry. I feel as though, through your amazing post, that you've been in your cacoon prepare for your next chapter and you've now emerged….a strong, beautiful, amazing woman who is a wonderful mother, a magnificent chef, beautiful blogger, and oh so much more! I am so excited for your new life and new home!
Anne, the whole time I was planning and making your pouch for the swap I was thinkin' about your struggles….I went through something similar about 30 years ago…and then again about 20 years ago….rough times mold tough people…I hope your package arrives soon…it should…mailed it out on August 23….had to put it on the slow boat to get there….{{hugs}}
You are amazing Anne! What a tough time you've had & soldiered through. Well done to you – don't ever apologise for just trying to cope! Whatever the struggle – so glad to hear you are on the up side again, you deserve to feel good & be the best you can be! With your kids by your side I am sure the best is yet to come to you all. 🙂
Congratulations and hugs from Minnesota! I am so happy for you!
Don't be sorry for needing you time. Anne you are such an awesome woman and you will be amazed at how life will change for the better. I'm so sorry about your Mum but starting over is exciting enjoy it. Rediscover who you are and your passions, all the very best to you my friend xoxox PS congrats on the house if you want help with any cheap ideas I might have some.