Welcome to my Blog: Surviving an Abuser

My answer: I would have to say yes and no. One year ago, my father-in-law passed away. We had just moved them into our home 2 months prior. I could tell my father-in-law was relaxed, happy and simply ready to move on whenever the moment happened. He had spent his life taking care of his family. Having lived 3 hours from us meant he was the sole caretaker for my mother-in-law.

She never learned to drive, and she had not worked a job in 56 years. He was tired, sore and weak. They fought moving until he knew it was time. He simply said: “Shirley, it’s time to leave our home.” So, we planned, packed and moved them in.

My mother-in-law is lonely and somewhat healthy, but continuing daily as she did back home. She adores our little dog and the evening visits with her son. We have grandchildren that visit with her and more commotion than she’s ever lived with. She is happy.

One year has passed, but I have to say I did not picture it being any different. I was not sure if she would still be alive in one year, that would have been the only thing I’d of pictured possibly happening. But everything else is as I thought it would be.

For me personally, I pictured things a little differently. My best friend from my neighborhood ended up moving back to her home state. Luckily I am able to drive to visit her for a weekend.

My home life with my husband has gone from stagnant to exciting, and I am looking forward to the oncoming year.

My family has reached many happy goals over the past year and looks like the new year will be bringing many happy new beginnings.

So, for now, I have a ‘picture’ in my head of this next year. I am looking forward to this time next year when I can say: “yes” my outlook was as I hoped.

Elizabeth Damons, December 19th 2022