I have some crocus blooming. Earliest ever, for me. And the snowdrops are every where the snow has melted.

I agree, Phil! I think it's a terrorist plot to keep us always wanting more!! The same with computors, cameras etc.! The more we have the more we want and just about the time you think you have the "best" of "whatever"--there are more "alluring" ones being introduced for us to drool over and go on the mad "hunt" to obtain! Last year, and again this year, I had a moment (very short) where I said, "okay, it's enough!" Then, thanks to the "professional enablers" on this forum, I see a pic. or discussion about one I don't have, and my list just gets longer while square footage diminishes! Oh, the "temptations"!!!! janice (from the "light" side)

Thanks, all! Man, this unpacking business is just about to kill me. LOL I took tonight off just to lounge and be lazy! Paula, thanks -- I'd love another start of the 'chokes. Boy, I could just kick myself for that. Glenda, we're up in northeastern Missouri now, around Monroe City. We're absolutely loving it up here. Feels like winter is here already, though! Dawn, we only brought the two dogs, four kittens, and about a dozen chickens. We sold and gave away the goats and rest of the chickens (and the hogs a while back). I'm going to have the blog on a new domain soon, to kick off our new adventure so I'll let you guys know when it's ready to go. Brand new palette indeed! :-) Btw, my forester friend came over and told me we have cherry, peach, apple, and mulberry trees. And I now live roughly an hour from Stark Bros. nursery, she said. Yay! Diane

You are dealing with an old fashioned bully. Bullying always stems from insecurities. You are doing the right things. You have kept an open mind, taken responsibility for your own mistakes and are willing to move forward, with everyone, for the sake of your child. This SM has some serious demons and you cannot help nor change her. In a perfect world everyone would be adult and put the childs needs and best over all welfare first. Unfortunately this is not a perfect world. You are a good mother, that is all you can be. Certainly monitor your child closely. Analyze her attitude and behaviors when she comes home from a visit with SM. Keep communication open with her, without poisoning her mind. No one wins from that. You are a loving and caring mother, wanting only what is best for your child. Even if that means "sharing" your role as mother with someone else. Not easy. I am in the same boat. Give yourself more credit, you are not only strong, but honorable. Strength is not about being able to yell, cuss and belittle someone, even getting physical. Strength in character is a MILLION times more valuable and honorable! Hold your head high honey, you get it. The child comes first, you totally get it! Good for you! She will see it and feel it every day. You can keep your child safe and secure with open communication. Having said that I must say I am kind, but not weak. If SM ever comes at you again, take her out! LOL