3FatCats

Sorry to read this. I guess if there had been no reaction at all it would have been worse? He sounds quite scared probably, and his anger is bubbling to the surface. If you can plod on and stick with your plan I think he will turn up on your doorstep some time from now, just a hunch....you need to do what is best for Olivia and you, lots of hugs xxx

Hugs. In my last months in Oz I was near to breaking point, and my circumstances were very similar to yours. I went to see a reiki practitioner, who was also a professional counsellor, and found that helped very much. Breathing/relaxation are also key (to me) for managing my anxiety and I have recently started yoga to see if I can become a bit stronger, if there is a class near you it might be a welcome distraction? Take care of yourself and feel free to PM if you would like a chat.

Yay! So lovely to read this great news, well done you have so much to look forward to now! Xxx

Used to like a weekend in Hobart, or day in Katoomba or Bowral, bit of history, cute shops, nice walks/scenery and cafes.

Liking Lidl at the moment, nice selection of continental stuff in the deli counter, and good wines. I can almost get a full shop for 25% less than Asda. Then it is just Asda for toilettries and brands I need. Never go to Tesco, don't have a Waitrose.... will sometimes go to the food hall in Marks, but just for a treat and never a full shop, and occasionally Sainsbury when I'm feeling flush!

Back to you! Miss you xxxx

Hello OP, how are you getting on? I have no kids but we recently moved back to Cheshire and you are very welcome to a cuppa anytime :wubclub:

Odd one this year. We have a friend joining us as his missus is in Aus assisting their daughter who just had an emergency c- section. But, he is working Christmas day....so we are having Christmas tea at around 8pm. No idea what I'll do all day, probably snack on crap and watch telly. Anyone at a loose end in the NW is welcome to join in! Always a place at my table. We are having porchetta with all the trimmings (Italian stuffed pork) plus a selection of English and Italian puds.

Yay for the North of England! We must plan a meetup... Xxx

oMg! Woohoo! Where is it? Such great news xxxx

Well done in the end! Just to add, we got ours back within 7 weeks from applying, maybe each super fund are different.

Was only 3 years in Aus. The second I came back I just slotted straight back in. No reverse shock for me at all.

This is the right decision.....well done and so so sorry to hear of your loss..... :hug:

It took me 6 weeks from the actual decision btw, it can be done! I was a woman on a mission :daydreaming:

You sound amazing actually! Is there a Sea Shepherd group near you? I would deffo be making contact to do some volunteering and meet like minded people, it is a circle that has made me feel very welcome xxx

You sound so interesting! Not meaning to offend anyone, but your average run of the mill person won't "get you" if you know what I mean? It will take a like minded person with the curiosity and intelligence to be drawn to you and what you can offer that will become a friend....if I were closer I'd be round like a shot! Stay positive. Xxxxxx

In response, he just needs to grow up! Australia was a pipe dream, he had no permanent visa anyway and could only have stayed there through me sacrificing another 2-3 years, which I was not prepared to do. He moans and bitches but ultimately does nothing to improve his job or life situation, waiting for someone else to do that....it is a terrible thought to have, but I sometimes catch myself thinking I would be better off in certain aspects on my own. I am giving it one more year for him to realise that his behaviour, in the end, is going to drive me away and then take stock. The joys!

@Helz980 I also agree, go now while you can and take your daughter without too many issues. You can't survive without him? Well.....yes, we say hurtful things when we are angry but that is not good. With my OH there are other issues, he resents me earning more than him for one, and resents he earns less here than in Sydney (although life cost more there....which he forgets...) so he is often making sarcastic little comments on how "poor" we are here (not true at all) and how we threw our golden lifestyle away (golden? With a suicidal wife???), so I very much feel for you and firmly believe you can and will make it and probably be very happy in the end.

I didn't make any friends in Aus in three years. I met and frequented other poms, and am in touch with a couple, but I never really fitted in. Same with work colleagues, in touch and we chat, but not the type of friendship I could open my heart to. I have pondered your same question many times over the years, I am a bit of a loner tbh and think my preference of time alone and space can put some people off. I am also picky, and I don't do that whole call for a chat thing or meet for coffee mornings....if I don't click with someone I'm not really interested in persuing a relationship for the sake of it, although in Aus I really had to because the alternative was to be completely alone.... Thinking of my handful of close friends, who all live abroad now so I sadly never see them, those relationships were formed during hard times, probably when I was quite vulnerable and maybe opened myself up more to sharing some of my more personal sides? With yourself, perhaps meeting other Mums who care for children with learning difficulties could give you a common point of contact? A shared concern can sometimes open conversation, you will be able to relate to each other's issues, look up some online support groups. As for those who shun you, don't dwell on it....not everyone is meant to be our friend, we just need to find those few precious ones who are. Lots of hugs xxxx