Thats the problem for me. Between work and raising my two sons I find very little time for myself. I feel that If I have any time I need to spend it with my kids doing things for them or with them. I know that can be unhealthy for me but I have to make sure they are all right with our new situation!

Shawn

It is good to put your children first but only to a point. You will be a better parent for taking some time for yourself. Kids pick up on stress and by taking time for yourself, even in small ways will help all of you.

Decide what you like to do that is calming and then integrate into your life. If it is something that is a few hours then do it weekly, if it is something that is an hour or less a few days a week. We all get so caught up we forget ourselves; further you want to teach your kids to also take care of themselves. Sending positive thoughts your way to de-stress your life. Good luck.

I started taking Yoga classes, dropped a ton of weight and have recommitted myself to a more regular exerise program. I have also taken part in a few bicycle tours which I have never done before as well as getting messages (a very new thing for me).

I have also been seeing a counselor.

In the very near future I want to get some additional technical training/eduation as well as get back to attending church on a regular basis.

That is about it for me. It has been working so far but when I can't do these things I have mentioned above I do seem to be a bit of a basketcase so I know there is more work to be done.

I'm reconnecting with my sister, listening to MY favorite music, seeing a therapist(my first session is Oct.2), buying "fun" clothes rather than practical ones, and making new friends. I'm also re-evaluating my views on sex and dating. I'm learning to voice what I want, and actually go for it rather than settle for "good enough." Aside from that, I cry a lot, get angry a lot, and wonder when it's going to level.

Yoga is great! I took Isha yoga "inner engineering" class which was fantastic. I am now looking into belly dancing lessons. Congrats on the weight loss, that is great!!!

I am sorry that you are still crying, it does take time to get past all the sadness and grief. Seeing a counselor will help put your life in order. Sounds to me you are learning to put yourself first; that is most important.

Thanks! Yes, putting myself first is very unnatural for me. I'm finding, though, that it feels pretty good to do something just because I want to and not because it fits in between what everyone else needs/wants. The crying is less each day, the anger is more sporadic, and I know things will get better with the passage of time (and good friends here on TBD!) :o)