“Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.”

Good plan! You are doing so well. Glad that a decision is made that is best for all your family..:rotfl:

You have to treat the working you have done as a success not a failure.

You have proved you can hold down a job, are valued where you work and can overcome a number of your own issues to get there. You are perfectly capable of earning a living.

The ONLY thing stopping you working is the very serious health issues of a tiny girl for whom you are mum/advocate/carer in chief.

There is absolutely nothing wrong in accepting the priority of that over the work.

What do those who criticize actually expect you to do with her? Is there some level of denial about how unwell she is? Mum certainly seems to know it as IIRC she won't look after her alone.

I'm truly sorry you can't work as its obviously very good for your wellbeing but unless someone is keeping quiet about some miracle care options, you are up against it. If there is a way to do some shifts or cover work without messing up benefits too much, I'd look at that option, purely because its good for YOU.

Just keep going - I'm glad you're relaxing your budget for some home improvements and the odd treat. There is nothing extravagant in your choices, beds and economical decorating. No need to wear your hair shirt for ever and nice surroundings and home as a haven are very good for your wellbeing as well.

I get the feeling that you still have some fairly big personal issues to deal with that you see as faults and stop you from taking credit for the good stuff but believe me, well cared for children trumps an awful lot and always will.

I don't post often but do follow along x

Have a lovely day today. I think you should come and do my decorating! I bought all the stuff but have no motivation whatsoever.