The Power of a Year

 When I logged in to write my blog last night, I found this unfinished draft from July 31st:

One year ago today, I left England.  I came back to the American life.  I was once again separated from the love of my life and forced to start over.  But I had a new focus:  start the rebuilding process so that Phil and I could start planning our future.
The big D was priority #1.  I filed for divorce from my now ex-husband almost immediately.  Describing that as a trying time would be an understatement....not emotionally; I mean, I was completely over him.  Trust me.  I didn't know how the process worked, how long it would take, how he (the ex) would react...and I had NO money for a lawyer, so I had to wing it.  I do have to say that the entire process was probably the biggest test of strength and courage I've ever endured.  I discovered more about myself in those 2 months than I had my entire life.
Goal #2: Get a good job.  I thought I had that with Avis, until I started to dig beneath the surface.  Never would I have imagined being trapped...hook, line, and sinker, the way I was with that company.  It smothered me in lies and empty promises, and I got to a point where I couldn't take any more.  There's only so much strength one can muster each day in such a horrible work environment.
Hurdle #3:  Immigration.  We are on our way to apply for Phil to get his visa to come stay with me forever and ever and ever.  This, perhaps, will be the single most difficult test of my life.

In just the few short months since I wrote this, I have accomplished 2 out of the 3, and we are mid-way through the 3rd. The title, "The Power of a Year" is the original title, but it really doesn't capture the scope of it all. It's been less than 3 months, and I've had some major accomplishments. When I really look back to where I was almost 3 years ago, and I see where I am now, I can't help but to feel proud of myself. I am able to make car and insurance payments -- by myself. That is a hugely personal victory, and it's something I am very proud of now, given that I lost my car to repossession in January 2011.
Today, I was able to kind of pick myself up after last night's bout of melancholy. I woke up to a text from my friend Ashley that she had a new Tastefully Simple customer for me. I spent lunch with my good friend Rachel, spent some time with my dad after that, and spent the evening with my brother and his girls. Today was the sunshine after last night's rain.
So, anyway, this ends my ramble.  I'm starting to feel like Holden Caufield.....but at least I feel better. Until we meet again.........