A Year of Transition Transitions Again

In May 2007, my daughter's "other mom" moved back to California and re-entered Annie's every day life. What has, in the past, been a very toxic relationship between us and her is now actually pretty darned good one. Annie comes and goes between our two households and is the happiest I have ever known her to be. Amanda and I have actually had a number of lengthy, heartfelt telephone conversations about various things, and much more email correspondence over the past 16 months. I can honestly say that I think of her as a friend. Those of you who have been with me through the past five years know what a huge statement that is!

Amanda has married a man that I actually like and has a stable job that she actually likes. She has been here for Annie's school activities and events: talent shows, awards ceremonies, open houses, and the like. She has begun attending church again, albeit irregularly, and has seemingly reconnected with Christ. I pray that this process continues steadily.

It is with confusion that I report that Amanda is now moving to Oregon on a temporary placement concerning her job. She has to relocate for two years in order to make a significant advancement professionally and financially, and will then return to this area. She has arranged with her employer that she MUST have time to visit Annie regularly and attend major school functions. We will allow Annie to go up to Oregon for visits during school breaks, of course.

I understand why Amanda is going, and yet part of me wonders if it's a good idea to re-open old separation-wounds where Annie is concerned. It took us a while to get used to living in the same area, and now we will go back to the way it was before. I know we'll be okay, we did it for a long time before this most recent togetherness, but I just hope Annie doesn't resent her other mom for this decision. The two years between ten and twelve are big years, and Amanda won't be around for them.

On the other hand, I'll have my daughter around full time again!

We are supportive of Amanda's decision and will make sure Annie sees that. I'll keep you posted.

Pray for our family's mental health! This is emotionally confusing.