After over two years of legal battles and negotiations (and years longer than that for when he emotionally left me), I finally got divorced on March 27th. It's not "officially official" and legalized until the 90-day waiting period is done, which will be June 25th, but for all intents and purposes, it's done. What a relief! 😌 I was so worried that this would go to trial, or take several more months of negotiating, which would have been absolutely ridiculous, not to mention soul-sucking (and bank account-sucking; you don't even want to know what this cost us financially 😬). I did what I had to do to bring it to a close, made some concessions in order to accomplish the greater good for me and the kids and our well-being, and I have no regrets. The feeling of liberation since then has been wonderful, and a huge load has been lifted from my shoulders.
About a month after the divorce was granted, I got together with four of my best friends to celebrate. I had thought about doing some kind of open house type of party to thank my many friends and family who have been so supportive of me during this difficult time, but I found that I wasn't in a celebratory mood and didn't want to do anything big. Divorce at its root is a tragedy, especially when you've been married in the temple and thought you'd be together forever, and especially when children are involved. But I have chosen to see it as a springboard to better things, particularly since I didn't choose it, he did. I'm doing well on my own and am excited for my future, and that is something to celebrate.
We got together for a potluck dinner and talked for hours. Very low-key and relaxed, just like I wanted. I wish I'd taken more pictures, particularly of my friends (Sara, Sharalyn, Meredith, and Shelly) and us using the funny props that Sharalyn had bought, which we didn't use at all! (I attempted some selfies with the props the next day and it did not go well, as you will see. 😂) I'm so thankful for my friends and for all of their support and encouragement. They've been a true blessing to me in my time of need, and I love them dearly.
And I'm so thankful to finally be divorced! I'll be officially single in about four more weeks, for the first time in 23 years.
