Hi Lynn, it’s Maura.

Last we exchanged notes we both were going through a tough time. My marriage was over and your old dog had passed away. Those scant three years ago feel like an eternity, don’t they?

Three years hence and I am no longer in Reston, no longer have my old lady dog, and am no longer with Mission BBQ…

I now own my own townhouse, have a brand new 10 month old crazy pup and a fledgling career in communications.

Lucy left yesterday for her senior year in college and Annie Rose began her last year of high school last Thursday. Both girls are doing very well. We’ve all worked really hard at forgiveness. I think our bond is stronger than ever.

Jace and I are still battling one another in court. The next appearance is Sept 14. He emailed me tonight to see if we could settle and then in true narcissist form, scoffed at my boundaries (to see his tax return). I am no longer victim to his bullying. I will not yield just because he tells me to.

I have found my voice. I have found my sense of purpose. On good days I am productive and happy. On others I take deep breaths, and strive to do the next right thing.

I am a work in progress. And that’s ok. I’ve got the rest of my lifetime to learn how to do and be me.

I’m getting there, one day at a time.