A post for a Friend. And maybe you, too.

As I was filling out my holiday cards last weekend, I was reminded again about how much life has changed in the last twelve months. (And, it was twelve months exactly.) Last year's holiday cards featured photos of two happy kids, signed off by a holiday greeting from four names. The year's card was filled with twenty happy photos of the kids and myself and only three of us are listed. And, you know what ... the kids are just as happy ... if not happier.

The last twelve months has been a huge struggle for all of us, we've all learned so much, and Little Diva and Little Dude have become mature beyond their years. I've personally learned so much about myself and what the kids and I want and need in life. And what their father needs in life, too. We've all come out of this much happier in the end. Talking about my divorce doesn't imply that I'm bitter or mean that I'm looking back. It just means that it is apart of me, and apart of my journey. I really think that I needed to go through what I went through to learn many, many things about myself and to appreciate the things that I want and need out of a partner in life, when I find those qualities in someone someday.

As I was filling out my holiday cards, I sadly took people off of my distribution list. But, I also added many, many more friends that I've met throughout the journey (some of you here). It's amazing how something so difficult can bring so many wonderful blessings along with it. I'm grateful for the many people who have entered our lives in one way or another this year. I will be forever grateful for the support, encouragement, advice, tools and resources you have provided me. Many of you can relate to our situation, which makes me sad, but we would not have found eachother otherwise.

I, personally, have now become a resource for many friends and acquaintances who are also encountering life's changes. There is something about this time of year that seems to really brings out both the best ... and worst ... in relationships. And, many relationships struggle and fail during this holiday season. I have had a few friends reach out to me recently, as they struggle with lifelong decisions. I would never want to lead anyone in any direction ... only to true happiness. One way or another. Because, truly ... life is way to short to be anything but happy.

So, my dear friend that is tossing and turning at night ... please know that you are on my mind ... and I want you to be happy. If YOU are tossing and turning at night, too ... please choose happiness. I want you to wake up with a smile on your face tomorrow .........