Yesterday, I was telling my husband about some of the funny stories I have read on this site… And we were having a great laugh over them... This led to a brief mention of his ex-wife and her craziness, and when I was finished talking I realized this: I didn't have the shakes, my heart rate didn't go up, I didn't get cold inside, I just had a good laugh comparing her to the stories.

I thought to myself that it was a nice change, and maybe I really am finding the peace I need...

A few days before it was just me and my stepson in the house for a little while after school, and because I have sworn to myself that I will not discuss school etc. with him, I didn't have anything to say after "How was your day?" (His response, typical for 15-year-old boy, is always simply "good.") So, I just continued preparing dinner while he stood in the kitchen silently. Eventually, he started talking about the work he's doing on his racing bicycle - and funnily enough, I actually had to tell myself that I could respond with more than an "Uhhuh" or "is that right?" He was trying to engage me in a conversation LOL, and it was a topic that wasn't emotionally off-limits for me.

And, someone very kindly posted on one of my blogs about the difficulties I'm facing in the relationship with my stepdaughter, and I really appreciated the insight. There is much to be gained by asking for assistance from those who have been in our shoes... I appreciate the wisdom of others who want the best for other stepmoms and dads.

None of my "successes" have happened overnight; it has taken me two years from the time that I first understood the concept of disengaging and what I needed to do to be successful. From time to time I have seen a glimmer of my future after disengagement, but in this past week I have actually felt the difference in my world.

It's really beginning to feel quite wonderful.