I was emotionally abused in my marriage.

There I admit it.
I feel embarrassed, angry, weak and strong by making that statement.
My friends and family will attest what a devastating affect my ex husband had on me.

For years I believed I was "Fat, stupid and ugly."
I couldn't wear skirts because they made my legs look fat.
I couldn't wear ponytails because my face didn't look right.
I couldn't believe there was any value in my engineering degree.
I couldn't talk to my friends or mom because. (there was no reason)

I was left alone and crying on the bathroom floor every time I found out I was pregnant. It was my fault for getting pregnant.

It was my fault my husband failed his medical board exams.
It was my fault my husband had an affair with his secretary.
It was my fault my husband drank too much.
It was my fault my family was boring.
It was my fault for giving up on the marriage.

Though I stepped away and began to rebuild myself 3 years ago,
a moment can bring back all abuse I endured in that relationship.
It also makes me incredibly thankful for getting away from that abusive relationship.

Now, I am the "Crazy Angie" my friends and family knew, and missed, for years.

I am proud to have an engineering degree.
I am proud to be an incredible mom.
I am proud to have two amazing boys.
I am proud to be an engineer.
I am proud to have a successful business.
I am proud to have a wonderful family.
I am proud to have all my friends.

I love to wear skirts.
I love to wear ponytails (though my hair is short now).
I love my family. They are far from boring.
I love my friends.
I love my job.
I love me.

I feel better sharing these thoughts with you.

Thank you.