I Did A Thing Today...

 

I did a thing today. I made my homemade Dulce de Leche Cookie Cups. The last time I made these, I was 31 years old. Living in New York. Working in city group homes as a residential counselor. In a relationship with someone who had a very heavy hand. Heavy. Heavy. Heavy. It wasn't my first Christmas with her. But, it was my last.

That particular December was the worst. Lots of untreated injuries.  A few of which included a minor TBI, fractured tailbone, and stuff that didn't heal that still affects me to this day. 

Amid the shitstorm, I was still expected to bake gourmet goodies and meals for her family and friends. 

Buy gifts. 

Wrap presents.

Have parties.

Impress those in her life. 

I did it. 

For survival. 

TODAY, I'm 47. I still walk with a limp, I have chronic pain, and repeat myself a lot. 

Today, I'm living my best life. 

I'm married to my best friend. 

We have the greatest kids. 

We bought a house in February. 

Our tribe has gotten smaller and altered a bit, but...  

We have some rather incredible people in our life in the here and now. 

Family. 

Friends. 

New neighbors. 

Blessed. 

Humbled. 

Grateful.