It's now 3 years since my ex left and I'm doing OK, though I accept that I will always have some sadness and anger about the way my ex left the marriage and his ongoing reluctance to spend one on one time with his own children. But he does see them and support them, so it could be a lot worse. Initially I was annoyed that I even remembered the date this year, but it came to a head around my birthday, so I don't think I'll ever forget it. I've read it's very common for spouses to make these announcements on or close to a birthday or Christmas...so thoughtful! Instead I've decided to

S. Some milestones have been hit recently - we split up three years ago; he started his new relationship almost immediately with my old friend; my father died three years ago unexpectedly and my eldest daughter went to university. Thus in 2013 I had to bear grief for my father, my mother's grief, the end of my marriage, betrayal, empty nest syndrome without one daughter and husband; begin the fight for survival through the divorce courts and try and earn more money. People often tell me how strong I was but to be quite honest this cap does not fit as I could not see any any other way.

This isn't really about divorce, more the after effects. I feel exusted tonight... My 13 year old daughter has brought home a letter asking if she wants to go on a school trip next year when she will be 15 to Africa, yes you heard correctly Africa! Gone are the days of school trips to the local church yard to do brass rubbings or the nearest beach to do orienteering now the most beautiful, and precious person in your life can go on an expedition to help Africans in a project that will (supposedly) help people in their lives whilst experiencing a different culture at the same time. Her