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My oldest turned 14 and she wanted a family party. So I invited the exAH and his enabling parents over for dinner. My exFIL helped me cook in the kitchen which is normal and nice, while cooking he was asking me questions that I was uncomfortable answering, so I gently answered vaguely. My exMIL showed up and my 3 1/2 year old started acting up immediatly which is normal when her Nana is around. My exAH showed up and took me aside to say something about my taxes which is none of his business, then doesn't let me respond, walks away saying I don't want to talk about this any further. (No wonder I don't do this to myself often!) Then we all sit to eat and my oldest and her best friend look so nice I took a few pictures. My exMIL starts asking me about me eating gluten free and I didn't want to explain to her why and what it entails so I just gave her a quick explanation and moved on. My exAH put my lil one into time out which was needed and exMIL wanted to go with her, hmmm kind of defeats the purpose of that. The ex said a few things I ignored and I was short with his Mom once. The exAH barely ate which I expected he needed to get home and drink. For the most part it went better than I expected. I was worn out the whole next day and realized these people are not used to me having boundaries and I had to be on high alert. It was exhausting, all the questions and interactions with these sick people. Glad it went okay and now it's over! Thanks for listening.
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Sending you love and support on your journey always! BreakingFree
Al-Anon/Alateen Family Group Headquarters, Inc. 800-344-2666
" Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional."
"Serenity is when your body and mind are in the same place."
Wow, you are so much stronger than I am - I wouldn't even be able to handle the thought of that much assault on my boundaries or putting myself in that situation - what a brave soul you are! Glad you got through it, is it Calgon time now? You deserve it. Cheers!
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I am strong in the broken places. ~ Unknown
All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another! ~ Anatole France
Sounds like you did a good job staying on your side of the street and helped your daughter have a happy birthday. They'll get use to your boundaries over time if you stay consistent. You have a right to your privacy, to say no and be gluten free too Hugs. TT
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Surround yourself with people and elements that support your destiny, not just your history.
You worked your program sister friend!!! WTG, .. sending you lots of love and support!!
Hugs P "_
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Stepping onto a brand-new path is difficult, but not more difficult than remaining in a situation, which is not nurturing to the whole woman.- Maya Angelo
Hugs. TT