The Next Chapter Begins ...

Well folks, I believe I set a record for the number of likes on my Facebook status on Tuesday ... 43. Needless to say, I have a lot of friends and family that have been there for me over the most terrible ... and most incredible ... five months of my life. Many of these people came into my life only recently, after realizing that we have unfortunate common circumstances in my life. It's an unfortunate bond that ties us together.

I'm officially a single running mommy of two munchkins and couldn't be more excited about my future with the kids. There may be some debate about how I can be happy about my children coming from a broken home. But, I am happy that they will have two newly happy parents who both still love them very much. I am confident that Little Diva and Little Dude will have TWO homes filled with love. Whether my home is big or small or whether I am with them half of their waking hours or away, they will know that I love them and that I am truly happy.

So last evening, over three fun hours at a local pub, I celebrated with over 50 friends and family members ... and their spouses and children. The place was packed with familiar faces ... old and new ... little kids and baby carriers ...and smiles and hugs all around. This was not a divorce party. It was a celebration of my new beginning. A fresh start. A path to true happiness.

The celebration wouldn't be complete
without an
animal print cake!!
(the entire cake consumed!)

I wasn't sure how I would feel last night. I kept referring to it to a reverse-wedding. So many close family and friends from all areas of my life ... coming together to celebrate me and the next chapter. I thought I would be all emotional and would be sobbing as I hugged and greeted everyone. But, I didn't. I never shed a tear. I was truly just happy to see everyone that I cared for .... that cared for me and the kids. I wore a smile the entire night. It wasn't about the struggle I had. Nor the drama. It was about happiness. :)


I was ecstatic to see Chelsea (HERE) from Early Runner and her husband join me for the evening. Some of the other local bloggers were unable to make it. The blogging community has been a tremendous support system for me. Some people may think that "virtual friends" aren't "true friends". But, I find it extremely amazing that complete strangers can be so supportive to someone that they barely know, other than through their words and photos. Getting my words out there, realizing that they are read, your comments and encouragement have been my therapy. Several of you have joined me for runs, helping me reach my goal of running a half marathon every month. Some of you have sent cards or gifts over the past five months. A quick email or Facebook post to let me know that I was on your mind. It's all meant soooo much. I thank you for helping me move on and push forward and strive to continue to reach my goals.

THANK YOU!

I also would like to take this post as a public opportunity to thank my immediately family - my mom, dad and sister - for all of their support in every single way you can possibly imagine. They have continued to go above and beyond to help me and the kids out.

Sometimes you don't realize what you have until you are in your most difficult moments. When you need someone to lean on. I've learned that I NEED to lean on someone sometimes. It doesn't make me weak. It's only makes me stronger.


The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance;
the wise grows it under his feet.
~James Openheim

A truly happy person is one who
can enjoy the scenery while on a detour.
~Author Unknown

Some pursue happiness,
others create it.
~Author Unknown