Caro - I am good about it now, but I was very angry when it first happened. After having kids of my own, I could and never will understand how a mother could leave her kids, no matter how old! My dad is great, he put up with alot from my mum without complaint. My dad moved in with his elderly mother when my brother was 16, so he came to live with us until he was 18. He was here when I was pregnant with Chelsea and he was such a great help when I came home with a newborn. He and Chelsea are very close too. I really cherish the relationship we have, he's such a wonderful and caring young man now. I hope I had some influence on that.

Rosehannah, I totally agree, we always want things to be better. It gives us all something to strive for.

Rosehip - I am sure you son will reap the benefits of your experiences with your mother. You sound like you are dealing with things so well, your son will be very proud to have you as his mummy.