Heather:

have faith on upper power, or whoever controls our strings and believe in that worst is over, now its tranquility time enjoying your kids and hubby. once you start believing in it, you will atart believing in yourself.

Asha

I know this is hard but I'm happy to hear you are slowly able to focus in on what is causing the anxiety for you. As you are able to focus on it and face it you will slowly be able to conquer the fear. Pema Chodron, a Buddhist monk, tells us to walk TOWARDS our fears, not away from them. Walking towards them helps us to confront them and conquer them...it defuses the fear and makes it more manageable!

Asha is a goddess and she is right...when you start believing in the power of goodness and tranquility, that will help as well!!!

You are making great strides my friend! Believe it!! :hug:

Heather, as you repeat doing things, you will gain confidence. I was fearful at first too. I started by going into a small store that I knew well and I knew the exit if I got over whelmed or anxious.

While your husband is gone, can you have a sister or friend maybe call you 3 or 4 times the first day or two, then maybe a couple times a day.

Have a number of a friend or neighbor you can count on, on speed dial so if you need then quickly.

Also if I keep to a similar, simple routine I do better, than trying to rush or get over anxious. Write out a list.. a schedule, you can follow. Kids up at... Am, maybe make a week menu of breakfast, even if it is cereal and milk or toast and fruit.. Lunches planned if you make them or lunch money set aside for the week.. same for dinner...

If you have things written down where you can see it, it may make you less anxious and feel more in control.

hope this helps a little.... I'm sure you will do fine, but "first's" can be a bit frightening.. and then they are behind you.

Bonnie

Radio shack also has a great device for taking the fear our of things. It's an automatic dialer which will dial up to three numbers with the push of a button worn around the neck. Unlike the services that you pay a monthly fee for, this one program yourself with whatever numbers you like...family, friends, etc.

Jean

Great ideas, gang!