Let me begin

After being in some very difficult relationships, I have found an amazing man.

He is not perfect, he was the first to say that to me. He told me what he thought his imperfections were before we even met. That was what attracted me to him. He was not trying to be something or someone he was not.

We can all take a lesson from that, accept who we are. Love who we are. Once we have attained that, life is so much easier.

My previous relationship was a very difficult 7 years. My ex was and still is an Alcoholic, I thought that I could deal with it. He would get verbally and emotionally abusive. It was not easy but I loved the man and thought that I could deal with it, my daughter loved him like a father and the was very good to us.

The last two years were the worst. He would not leave the house, he was always under the influence. A stranger would not know that he was drunk because he look normal but I knew the signs and the little changes in personality.

We I got home after running our pub, he would be passed out in his study or on the floor in the lounge.

I most probably would still be there is he did not loose it one night and physically assault me. He denies it to this day. I called the police, they took statements and I took photos etc. Needless to say I left the next day. I spent sometime with my parents while looking for a job and place to stay. I had not one cent in my bank account as he had control of all finance but that did not stop me. I was no ones punch bag.

Within two weeks I had a job and a cottage which I moved into.

From that day on, I have gone from strength to strength. I have been so blessed. When I think back to what I went through I do not know how I did not go insane.....

People out there who are in the same situation, I know it is often easier to just go with the flow. Only you can change things in your life, you have the choice to stay or leave. It is not going to be easy but if you have the belief in yourself you can do anything.