04/07/2026
5 years ago, today, I made one of the hardest decisions of my life. In the end, it was a sudden split-second decision. When I suddenly realized my life was NOT going to change unless I made the changes. I tried before in the past but had quickly been talked out of it.
After 25 years together, I walked away from the life I thought I would have forever. It wasn't a decision I made lightly, and it certainly wasn't one I ever imagined I'd have the strength to make.
Those early days were incredibly hard. I felt totally lost. There was so much grief, uncertainty, loneliness and moments where I questioned everything. I wasn't just grieving the end of a relationship. I was grieving the future, I'd always imagined.The milestones we would never share,the dreams that would never unfold. and the version of life I thought was already written.
Over the past 5 years, I've slowly learned that healing isn't about forgetting. It's about rebuilding. It's about learning to love yourself again, finding your voice, rediscovering your confidence, and creating a life that feels authentically yours.
I've learned to choose myself without guilt, I've discovered the importance of self-care, self-respect, and giving myself the same compassion I so freely gave to everyone else.
I visited 14 new countries, admiring sunrises in places I once only dreamed of. I've stood in front of breathtaking landscapes and wandered through ancient streets. Met beautiful souls from around the world and discovered that sometimes, the greatest adventure isn't the journey across the world,it's the journey back to yourself.
Most importantly, I've continued healing alongside my beautiful daughters. Our journey hasn't always been easy, but together, we're growing stronger, closer and more resilient than I could ever have imagined.
I'm still healing, I think we always are. Growth isn't a destination. It's a lifelong journey, but today, I can honestly say, "I'm proud of the woman I've become."
5 years later, I'm finally celebrating finding me.
Someone stronger,
Someone braver,
Someone freer,
With love
Lou
💜