Quietly planning my exit — go-bag started

It is okay to feel relieved. Relief is not the same as not caring. A counsellor on here offered a free first session and it genuinely changed the trajectory of my year.

My lawyer told me 80% of cases settle before trial. That fact alone let me sleep.

The kids are more resilient than the fear tells you. Steady and honest is enough.

Practical tip: open your own bank account today, even with $20 in it. You will thank yourself.

copies of ID, immigration papers and the kids' care cards were the things i almost forgot. a friend held an envelope at her place for me. you're doing this right, slow and quiet.

It is okay to feel relieved. Relief is not the same as not caring.

Sending you so much strength. The first few weeks are the hardest and they do pass.