On Thurs. Guard & I went out of town for an overnight work function for him. The best news is the co-worker *former* OW was not there...and I had the best time with my husband. I completely kicked back and fully took on my role for the evening as a sparkly "arm ornament" and my H was 100% charm. Guard said the next morning that I probably hadn't needed to give the Chief of Staff such a ribbing, but... the gentleman in question could easily have left the chair beside me to go circulate, so I don't think I was over the line.<P>But it is funny, the impression we give people. At dinner, I was already seated when Guard joined me and when he sat down, he kissed me and put his hand on my leg. Neither of us knew the man (a former police chief) who was sitting next to Guard, but he says, "How long have you 2 lovebirds been married?" 17 years. "Do you have any kids?" 2--13 & 15. He says "Most people married that long with kids aren't that affectionate. You 2 keep it up, and kiss in front of the kids, it is important that have that sort of example."<P>Guard and I look at each other and grin with absolutely no intention to enlighten the guy on why we might at this point in our lives be so affectionate. We just agree with him and silently pray that this is the side of us that the kids will remember, not the battling.<P>I honestly think this is the most fun we've had since Mexico in July. The dark mood I've been in since pre-Xmas holidays seems to be lifting, or maybe we're just getting out of the heavily-laden-trigger-anniversaries. It seems like so many times we set out to have a good time, but the memories are so very difficult. This was a type of something new that neither of us have ever attended.<P>So, 3 years after the troubles began, 9 months after our last reconciliation, that rough, rocky road might be smoothing out.<p>[This message has been edited by Lor (Lor) (edited February 17, 2001).]

Wow. Great. I loved reading it, especially the police chief's comments. It is like they say the best gift you can give your children is 2 parents who love each other.<P><BR>Glad you are out of the trigger dates, hope the next time they come around they don't bother you so much.<P>Thanks for the good news.

Lor,<P>This is wonderful!<P>Your posts give me hope that maybe one day h and I can make it to the place where you and gaurd are. <P>Keep posting the good things!<P>Hoping

Lor,<BR>Boy, do I know what your going through, think I am just about there myself. Just wish my H and I had time to travel and go some place special! Anyhow, wanted to say congrats and you deserve the best! God Bless! Bren

<BR><P>------------------<BR>terri<BR><B>Courage</B><P>Whatever course you decide upon,<BR>there is always someone to tell you<BR>that you are wrong.<P>There are always difficulties arising<BR>which tempt you to believe that your <BR>critics are right.<P>To map out a course of action <BR>and follow it to an end <BR>requires courage.<P><I>Ralph Waldo Emerson</I>

Lor,<P>I LOVE GOOD NEWS!<P> Peppermint<P> (this one is firestorm!)

Wonderful, Lor. Really wonderful!!!

Lor,<P>This is great! I am so happy for you. <P>And if your children do remember the conflicts in their home, it will always be linked with the memories of how you both overcame them and what you made of your family through it all. Many, many children see homes in conflict. Sadly, not many see their parents resolve it. Yea for you!

A big from me, too!!!

HI Lor,<BR> Great news!! Ah, to be seen as newlyweds!! That's AWESOME!! I just wanted to say that you are teaching your children a great lesson "Love is Eternal" and till death do us part. Not what the "world" teaches.... Hey, second and third marriages are best!! GOOD LUCK & PRAYERS FRANK<BR> <P>------------------<BR>desperate<BR>"If yesterday didn't stop today, Why should TODAY stop tomorrow??" <BR>"Wisdom and PRAYER is why!!"