You are doing so well, keep it up!!! You have so many friends thinking about you today!! Even here on the east coast before you woke up!! Jane

That's right!!! And don't you forget it, girl!!!! HUGS,

Good for you babe! If it makes you feel any better, I got in the shower once with all my sheets and my comforter. 12/18-meet up? Oui?

God bless ya, Aunt Purl! You made it! Your new life starts today!

A-MEN, mah sistah. Frick him indeed. Stinkybutt poophead needledick loooooozer that he is.

Very often I have found that the anticipation leading up to a watershed "Day" is worse than the actual day itself. Here's hoping the day goes smoothly and is busy enough to keep you from getting too morose.

Thinking of you today! I agree with you, closure is a myth, but it will get better each day. Enjoy that champagne.

I've gotta add another A-MEN to this! A-MEN! Maybe the shark he rode in on will get a bit hungry and eat the bastard. I'll definitely be toasting you with whatever alcoholic beverage I choose to drink tonight. (((HUGS)))

WOOOOO HOOOOO!
I lived "screaming distance" (you could hear the screams from the roller coaters) from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and I did always wonder who'd take their pic in the shark or the "big wave." Wow. memories.

Being unshackled feels kinda scary, but good. Having good friends around helps a whole lot. And really, she who has the most friends and support is the winner, who cares about toys...well, I do, but that's besides the point. Was I making one? Oh yeah, good thoughts to you as I drink my caffiene.

hugs, pretty. you are one brave little toaster.

CONGRATULATIONS!!
You are so much better for not having that bum as a spouse. It might not feel like it, but you are.

You are awesome!!!

Amen m'dear! Can I hear it in the back now! AMEN!

I burned my wedding photos in the car park of my new flat. They gave off really nasty fumes. It rocked.

You rock, too.

I'm glad that you turned to the internet for your testimony, and even gladder that I found you here. Because even though I don't comment much (okay, this is the first one ever) I think you're a way cool woman with wicked great ways of expressing herself.

Keep writing, keep writing.

Laurie, this day (and all that led up to it) happened so that you could follow YOUR dream of being a writer. You did, you are, and you make so many people laugh and smile and cry with your gift. Your many, many friends and fans are glad that you share it all with us and the day will come where you will actually be grateful for this experience, I promise.

Can we get an A and also men? You go, girl.

this was your most powerful post to date (and I've read every single one)mark my words - you will be a successful author one day.

Sounds like you've come a long way! Congratulations and cheers!

FYI--the "screenwriter" that lived next door to me in LB now "writes" pornos...what's to write?

Been there, done that. Tempted here to pat your little head and do a soft shoe to Annie's anthem "Tomorrow, tomorrow..." But it's crap in the musical and it's crap in real life. Loss hurts. It demands time for feeling it instead of acting as if it doesn't matter.

But. No reason you can't spin it to your favor. You dodged a bullet. If you felt you needed to hide your writing light so HE COULD SHINE ALONE, woo hoo. You're free, you're free at last. You're young and you have talent. If you ever feel that you want to trade your talent for companionship, please email me and I will remind you why that is always a bad idea.

Take some time to wallow in grief, give the pain its due. Life is loss.

FUCK HIM. But the shark can't help it.

You sound like you are going to be just fine, Laurie. I was planning to stop by Trader Joe's today because horror of horror I have no wine at home. I will think of you this evening while I sip. Perhaps in your honor I will pick up a shiraz.

You are a strong woman. Cheers to you Laurie!

You're better off without him, Purl. The tool. And just for the record, you were probably always the wordsmith in the family and he knew it.

I submit that his intimidation by your sharp wit and sweet sentimentality, coupled with the fact that you probably write better than he ever will, caused him to feel the need to "get his creativity back" - whatever that means (the jury is still out) - and leave to find someone that was less of a mental challenge for him.

That makes him the loser in this scenario. Not you. Look on today as the first of many filled with new and exciting opportunities. And I wish for you a salt-of-the-earth type guy that knows who he is and doesn't have to blame the woman in his life for his inadequacies.

Okay, okay. Rant over.
All that just to say, we love ya babe. Keep your chin up.

I'm reminded of the song "Writing Again" by We're About 9...
I've been thinking about the way most
things are difficult to open
and easier to close
but closure isn't something that you get with a person
it's a plan interrupted by snow
or a division of property

The internets is a much better place with your words in it!

I have been visiting your site for a while and reading your posts. You make me smile - you are freakin' funny!!
Today I will post a message to you because from what I have read so far I have concluded that you are a fabulous gal who doesn't need anyone else to define you!
All Mondays suck - but Tuesday is just hours away. All I can say is hang in there. New and exciting things are around the bend.
You are brave, strong and Crazy Aunt Purl! You go girl! Cheers to you - enjoy that champagne!

I always did hate Santa Cruz, not really sure why (after all there is a beach and a rollercoaster) but here's justification, finally. Hang in there, CAP, you're doing just fine. If you didn't feel something at some point over a d-i-v-o-r-c-e then I'd worry about you.

And yes, FUCK HIM. The joke's on him - he left but YOU got the creativity back.

I love you, Laurie. You matter to me, even though you have no idea who I am. I check your blog every day, and I laugh at your jokes and occasionally forward them to other people who don't even knit.

You shine.

Shine on. :)

Let's all raise our wineglasses tonight to our beloved CAP!

Whoooa...that photo is eerie! And the last two lines of your post say it all. YES!

You're still standing because you are a strong, beautiful, intelligent woman that can see past the past and walk toward the future. We walked and that hurt, but in the end you are going to find yourself, the real you, and it's going to be fantastic. Remember that there is a huge sisterhood, me among them, that have lived through what you're dealing with and we're here to cheer you on. Tomorrow will be a better day.

**hugs**

I agree - closure is a myth.

I want to say good luck, but that implies that you haven't done well and I think you have.

Girlfriend, we are glad to have you and will NEVER let you go.

Hell Yes, F him! You are such a fun girl!!!
Write your little heart out.
I am sure you have more creativity in your little toe then he will ever have.
ROCK ON.

Here is an idea: Shall we all toast to Lauie tonight? Say...9ish (7) Cali time? Yeah??

-Steph

You can do it!

And, yes, FUCK HIM. Good riddance to a lot of rubbish...and as Bel Biv Devoe said, "You can't trust a little dick and a smile" Ok, so they didn't actually sing that...BUT, there's *ahem* bigger and better out there for you! :-)

I remember my Monday so vividly. May 12, 1986. So ok, I am older than you are. Some day it will be so 19 years ago for you too.

I just wanted to say Congrats! You really have grown and shown true inner strength. I commend you (though you don't really need it because you can stand alone now... alone, but with friends who love and care for you.) Anyway, YOU ROCK LAURIE!

All Hail the restorative and reassuring powers of the yarn gods!

WOOT!! FREE!! FREEDOM!!! You are FREE!! And the whole world is at your feet and the end of your fingertips!!! He is the loser!! You win and you are FREE!!! Just think and feel the fabulous people, places and things in front of you!! WOOT!!!

I'm thinking all that half-price yarn you bought this weekend is a way better deal than any husband.

kitties+yarn+wine=everythingsokeydokey!

(in case you didn't get my email earlier) Laurie! Congrats you're done with it. And no worst for the wear either.

He may have left you in a bad way, but it's a reflection on him and not you. You're done with him and that's that. :)

I always laugh at your jokes. I check your blog several times a day to see if you can make me smile. (you always do!) I can't imagine what this doofus was thinking when he left....
You should never have to compromise talent to compensate someone's fragile ego. Give me a break!!
GOOD RIDDENCE MR.X!!

Julia nailed it -- you shine. And with your own light, too, not reflected light from Mr. X or anybody else.

You were never meant to be a reflector, Laurie. You were meant to be a light of your own. Mr. X, that sorry SOB, needs a reflector because he doesn't think he's bright enough on his own. And because he doesn't think he can be, he never will be.

You, on the other hand, shine RIGHT NOW.

Laurie, congratulations on making it this far! Even though your original mission in writing this blog was really a way for you to vent - I'm sure there are many women out there that you have helped and inspired without even realizing it. Let this be a lesson to any of you out there - DO NOT PUT YOUR DREAMS ASIDE FOR ANYONE!! We live in a "drive-thru" society and so many people are only concerned with what YOU can do for THEM! Hurry, hurry - get what I want and toss it in the trash when I'm done." Others will disappoint you - follow your own star because if you don't you will always regret it. I think you are on the "cusp" of some really great things to happen for you...patience.

I had quite a tasty shark steak once. Nothing like stabbing a fork in something that used to be scary... [hmmm. bit of a reach, that metaphor. and the shark defense league would be horrified.]

You're a Smart Beautiful Fabulous woman and your MANY readers are grateful to have you on the 'nets!

All I can do is sit here and nod with a tear in my eye. You should be very proud of yourself.

Go Laurie!! I will have a glass of wine for you tonight! I will also start a new knitting project in your honor as I just finished a purple scarf!

Be strong, continue to have fun and pleaseohplease write a book! It would sell millions of copies!

Yay for You! It's obvious that the fucknuts you're now legally rid of was too intimidated by YOUR wit and creativity and writing skills and not enough of a real man to suck it up and support you as you were trying to support him. That's not love. Not the capital 'L' Love that you so very much deserve.

I bought something for a friend once that read 'it is better to have loved and lost than be stuck with the jerk'. If I could find it again I'd send it to you. Enjoy what was good, recognize what was not, be true to yourself and what YOU need, and please keep sharing yourself with all of us out here who appreciate you.

Be proud of yourself. There's hundreds of us out here who are proud of you!

Laurie, what can I say that other's haven't already expressed. You will overcome this, for today is just another day and there's a brighter tomorrow just around the corner. Stand tall.(Um, I meant that to sound eloquent but did I hear that on a soap opera somewhere?)

I only know the "big-D" from my mom and her 2 sisters; so I really can't speak from personal experience. My mother is newly engaged to her 5th husband and her sisters have at least 3-4 marriages under their belts. They should be celebs they've married so much!

I found your blog back in September and lurked every day, and still do! You make me laugh, out loud, and you make me cry...You write amazingly. I feel as though I know you and we're sitting at the yarn store knitting (I started knitting, by the way! whoo hoo) and chattin'. Keep writing. I'd buy your book if you ever wrote one! Hell, I'd buy a few! One for the bathroom of course...LOL

Welcome to the next phase of your life. The possibilities are endless. Enjoy the adventure and never look back. You won. You came through a difficult change in your life with grace, dignity, a sense of humor and a well deserved attitude! Good job.

Laurie-boo

I'll be thinking of you today. But my Christmas wish for you is to not give this "man" another thought. To mourn the relationship and be done. It's hard and it hurts and for a long time you can mourn the loss of the relationship more than the loss of the person. At the very least I hope that's how it is for you - that if you must miss something you miss having an "other" and not HIM. Because from everything I've read, him leaving was a gift and a blessing even though it felt like a kick in the teeth. The way he did it was horribly hurtful and cruel and Karma will bite his ass for it. Mama Karma don't forget nothin'!

There's nothing wrong with needing someone, a person who compliments your half with his half. And you will find him now that you're not being smothered. We can all see the tremendous love in you and so will someone who can love you for all that.

this is really long winded and babbling but I'm home sick and it's the best I can do with fuzzyhead.

Love you girlie, kiss Roy for me.

ok so this is the fourth time i've tried to write a comment here and everything i come up with has been either said already or sounds retarded.

i hope you have a glorious day.

i raise a toast to you and your new life.

does it matter if it's not wine?

When you have another tough day, look back on this post. You've got the strength, waiting to be tapped in the difficult times. Love, love, love your blog. Keep writing, keep living on your terms--there's nothing better. Love from another lurker!

I once sat on the toilet to pee with my underwear still on.

Closure? The door will SLAM closed on him one day, and you should hope his fingers are well wedged in the doorjam when it does.

Good riddance!!!

I think Gloria Gaynor says it best :-)

"At first I was afraid I was petrified
Kept thinkin' I could never live without you by my side
But then I spent so many nights
Thinkin' how you did me wrong
And I grew strong

And so you're back from outer space
I just walked in to find you here with that sad look upon your face
I should have changed that stupid lock
I should have made you leave your key
If I'd've known for just one second you'd back to bother me

Go on now, go walk out the door
Just turn around now
'Cause you're not welcome anymore
Weren't you the one who tried to hurt me with goodbye
Did I crumble
Did you think I'd lay down and die?
Oh no, not I! I will survive
Oh as long as I know how to love I know I'll stay alive
I've got all my life to live,
I've got all my love to give and I'll survive,
I will survive, hey, hey...

It took all the strength I had not to fall apart
Kept trying' hard to mend the pieces of my broken heart,
And I spent oh so many nights
Just feeling sorry for myself. I used to cry
But now I hold my head up high
And you see me somebody new
I'm not that chained up little person still in love with you,
And so you feel like droppin' in
And just expect me to be free,
Now I'm savin' all my lovin' for someone who's lovin' me

Go on now, go walk out the door
Just turn around now
'Cause you're not welcome anymore
Weren't you the one who tried to hurt me with goodbye
Did I crumble
Did you think I'd lay down and die?
Oh no, not I! I will survive
Oh as long as I know how to love I know I'll stay alive
I've got all my life to live,
I've got all my love to give and I'll survive,
I will survive, hey, hey..."

Happy Independence Day, Sweetie! Hope it continues to be like every other Monday only with better wine.

A friend of mine gave me a link to your blog, and I read it all the time because it is so damn funny. It seems to me you matter to a whole helluva lot of people because there are always like a bazillion comments on each entry you post. I've never commented before, not just because you don't know me from Adam, and because it might be slightly creepy to admit to someone you have never met that you read their blog faithfully (don't judge), but because you already have so many friends and are so popular that you don't even need me to tell you anything that hasn't already been said over and over.

But I don't think you can hear this one too many times:

Congrats on surviving.

And tonight when you go to bed you won't have to dread this day coming anymore. Because it is over and you are still here.

Thanks for making me laugh.

Congratulations! You will get through this, and you will be stronger for it. And if it counts, I--along with all these other folks--think you're pretty f-ing cool.

Screw him indeed.

By the way, your cats are beautiful. I just recently discovered your blog, so I had to tell you that.

You go girl! You have come out on the other side and you are a better person for it. Congratulations!!

We are all here for you whether you know us or not. We know you, and we love you (and each fluffy cat too).

A rule to remember today:

There are two kinds of men. The ones who are interested in you and the rest. The second kind are so misguided, they’re not worth your time. Because if a man doesn’t have the sense to appreciate you, he obviously doesn’t have any sense at all.

Brava, Laurie! You're an inspiration! Thank you for sharing with us, the people of the internets.

I feel for you today... I've waited, East Coast, for you to post your feelings for today. I know it's hard but you're stronger than you think!!

Just remember.. hurt people, HURT PEOPLE. He was hurt... don't be hurt, just get back to living.
Tonight I will toast your strength with a glass of Shiraz.

Yes. Good for you, Laurie. Don't look back.

I'm totally applauding, you just can't see or hear me.

Best. Post. Ever. You're such an inspiration, and indeed, we're all here with you seeing you through the days and laughing at your jokes. Enjoy the Veuve Cliquot, you most certainly deserve it because you are you and we love you.

Hey, Purl -

Can we now concentrate on more important things? Like castigating Hurricane Chase for getting that gawdawful song stuck in my head?! He couldn't just put in a few lines, OH, NO, that would have been too easy. He had to quote the WHOLE DANGED SONG! AURGH.

You're probably at or around the courthouse right now. Thinking lovely thoughts for you.

fuck that self-absorbed, useless, coward piece of shit. fuck him. you are so lucky you got rid of him. and remember, what goes around, comes around. he will be hurt, too (if he's not already). big hugs.

p.s. i live in Santa Cruz! but i never go to the boardwalk. carnivals scare me :-)

Rock on! You matter to all of us wackos on the internets (and I mean that in a good way...!) And you matter to Roy, although he won't admit it when the pink medicine comes around... I'll drink a toast to you with cream sherry tonight (it's what I have open). You rock, Auntie!

I agree with all above who suspect that you were ALWAYS the superstar writer of the household! Keep it up, if you ever decide to publish outside of these here internets I will buy your book the first day it's on the shelf! I'm a librarian and will use my powers of persuasion to be sure that everyone who walks through my door reads it too!!

Keep on goin', girl--the best is yet to come.
We're all on your side!

GO YOU!!

I have a bottle of wine in the wine rack with your name on it - literally, it is a house wine from a restaurant in Missouri called Ivor's Laurie House - and I am going to pop the cork tonight in your honor. Love you!!!

Time to join in the chorus of encouragement. As everyone has said, Congratulations! - we knew you could do it. And yes, it still might hurt from time to time, but your life is rolling forward to much better times. I am glad to see you chose the Veuve!

I believe I will buy a bottle of wine on the way home tonight and drink a quiet little toast to all of us crazy cat ladies. I think we deserve it.

Congrats! Hey, yummy yarn and a bottle of Veuve Cliquot? Sounds like an evening of heaven to me. :) Wonderful things are happening for you now, ain't it great you don't have to look back?

heh heh heh - and the shark he rode in on... I am going to use that sometime in conversation and people will give me that - is she crazy? look. LOL

GO LAURIE! Happy Independence day! Thank you for being you!

((((((((HUGS)))))))))))

Three cheers for Laurie!
Hip Hip Hooray!
Hip Hip Hooray!
Hip Hip Hooray!

I'll be toasting you tonight, too. Congratulations on the start of your new life!

"The same girl who gave up writing so her screenwriter husband could be the wordsmith superstar in the family."

You are better off without him. And I'd strongly advise you to walk away from anyone who claims to love you but either asks you or allows you to do that sort of thing again. Love is about wanting the other person to be the best they can be and do what makes them happy. You are such a great person. And you write well. Keep it up.

You are a brave and courageous soul. You may not see it every day, but we do. Keep moving forward, girl. There's more good than bad to be had.

You've made it through to today, well done! -things can only get better! And the cat's getting better too, must be a good omen!

I lift my coffee to you. Cheers. You've got friends out here.

Congratulations, Laurie. If he didn't want you, I cannot imagine what he is looking for. But I suspect he is one of those men who needs a woman who will cater to his every whim and boost his overblown ego. Better to let someone else fill that spot. I suspect, however, that he will have a difficult time finding what he's searching for. You're the best!

I said "suspect" twice. Oh, well... That's what happens when you try to sneal posts at work...

#1. Gives you a great big hug.

#2. I love you.

#3. Congratulations. you survived. welcome to the club.

#4. I'm always here if you need me.

#5. I love you. (It's worth mentioning twice.) You're amazing. I'm so glad to see into your life on an almost daily basis. thank you for sharing just how incredible you are with all of us out here who have come to care about someone they've never actually met in person, through her writing, wit, humor, pain, strength, fear, and courage. Well done.

S

You are writing, and you will continue writing, and you will be far more successful in the world of Wordsmith Superstardom than that rat bastard, because with your writing you not only have experienced the therapy found within that very act, you have also enchanted legion of us who despite having never met you still wish you the very best that life brings.

"sneak" - Dammit.

Well now you are free...free to be you - it sounds like. Was he really that much fun...so, he was to be the writer? Hmmm you are well on your way to writerdom. You're good at what you do...when is the novel coming out? Seriously.

You also are inspiring me to get my creative act/life together...and I'm not having any man issues...they baffle me. I'm trying to decide how to deal with the one who wants to be in my life. I'm like: "why?" Like I said before, I'm rather covetous of my personal space.

Knit on, girl. And will also be drinking (more) red wine with you this evening -- this time with a p'nt butter fluff sandwich. yum.

Congratulations on reclaiming yourself. Take care, take care.

d.

Love you Laurie! you are my heroine!

Fuck him indeed. We love you, woman! I know this sucks for you. I will be sending good thoughts your way all day!

You? SOCOOL! Don't fall apart. It's just the first day of the rest of your life.

you are awesome. The internet says so, and the internet is true. You are a delight to read & I'm glad you've kept on writing. BECAUSE you're good at it! Happy You Day.

Hey, do you realize you've single-handedly managed to get at least a hundred people to get wine-happy on a Monday night? I bow to your powers...!

I'll raise a giant glass of wine in your honor tonight.

In the words of jessica simpson.. "Oh my GAAAAAAA"... he thought his writing was better and more important than yours? Insanity! I love reading what you write, and only aspire to match your wit, charm, humor and timing on my own boring blog. You have a true gift, all joking aside.
It's just another Monday, only this week you can walk forward knowing that all the weeks to come are FREE to be whatever YOU imagine. Good for you!!

Happy Independence Day! I'm joining everyone else in wishing you joy and being thankful you decided to blog. At your worst & weakest, your are inspiringly strong. Now finish up that mystery cat thing--we want pictures!

Bra-vo!!! To the nth degree.

I've gotta hold off the wine for now, but will raise my Nyquil cup in your honor tonight!

Lorrian

Being totally selfish here, (sorry) without dastardly Mr. X there would be no CrazyAuntPurl and that would be intensely sad for the rest of us.

Take care, and have a good tomorrow and all the tomorrows thereafter.

Good on you Ms Laurie, drink a toast, enjoy the day, you are proof that the darkest hour comes before the brightest dawn, it may be sunny, it may be raining, but every day has its joy, and reading your blog is one of them!

Even though I grinned after leaving the court house (a COMPLETELY different reaction than I thought I'd have), I can understand feeling the need for closure. I don't know if it ever really comes but it does get better. Every day I feel more like myself and it's been 4 years since he left. I just keep becoming more me. I'd still like to share that person with someone, but I tell myself all in good time.

I'll drink a toast to you tonight. All the best to you in this new chapter of your life.

WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!

Sorry, I was inspired.

Congratulations and Amen girl. We are all so proud of you.

Alas, I can't be having the wine with you, so I'm toasting with frozen yogurt. I'm thinkin about you today, and sending a link to your post to another dear friend who is in a similar spot. I agree with you that closure - seeking it from others - is a myth. Find your own closure - and it sounds like you have. Rock on, darlin!

Congratulations! I remember the strangeness of knowing I was really, truly divorced. It was scary and empowering and awful and not that big a deal, all at once. I had some great ritual purgings - I sold my engagement ring and used the money to finance a party. I also dyed my wedding dress and used the material to make curtains. The party was fun. The curtains were pretty. Life goes on.

At the risk of sounding slightly off, I have to say that I was thinking of you off and on this weekend. I know today is a hard day. Hope you find something fun to do to ease the difficulty.

Good for you! What a perfect, and southern, final word on the subject! I love that phrase, even though those around me are clueless when I use it. It sums it all up so well! Enjoy your evening celebrating freedom at last! ;}

That Crazy Aunt Purl, she's a plucky gal, that she is. :)

And you know what? I bet more people know who you are and admire your writing on these here internets than will ever know or admire sharkboy. So feel smug!

You go, girl.

Never let the bastard get you down.

Laurie, Peace to you on this day. You are a strong woman. Do not ever forget that.

Congratulations! I'll be joining the toast to you.

Today is the first day of the rest of your life
Do what you need to do. You know we are all out here rooting for you

You have a far bigger audience than nearly any screenwriter, and you communicate with them in a genuine and honest way. You bring us into your story, and make us a part of it. You make us laugh, nod in agreement, cry, and look forward to the next installment. Your writing feels like a conversation between you and your audience.

I highly doubt that the cretin to whom you used to be married (tctwyutbm for short) will ever write anything that moves an audience the way your blog does for your readers every day. You are already a far greater success than most writers, and anything you published would be snapped up in a heartbeat.

Congratulations on your hard won freedom.
And welcome back to the world of real tax refunds :)

Laurie, there is no way he could write any better than you do. Youre a lovely person, funny, sweet and thoughtful, and none of that is due to him.
Now go drink your wine and entertain your cats!

Yes, you're here and you've found you voice.

We're glad you did. So as hard as it is, I offer my congratulations. Mourning is hard, but I hope you see you got the better deal this way.

Next time, whenever that is, I know you will find someone who will nourish your dreams, as well as his own. I did, so I know it can be done.

What, so I'm a sentimental, optimistic soothsayer and blog stalker? It happens. Drink lots tonight, you earned it!

You poor little girl..... was there another woman?

Awesome. You rock, sugar. *hugs*

You go girl! Enjoy that Veuve and celebrate your new beginning.

CONGRATS, you made it! Thank you for making me laugh everyday!

Can I get a AMEN?!?!

I'm so glad you're rediscovering the you that was put away when he came around. Keep it up, this is a wonderful side to you. *hug*

We love you Laurie!

You're at the top of my bloglist because your writing is genuine and funny. You have a gift for humor, and you can express painful things in a way that has your audience rolling on the floor, laughing and crying at the same time. Applause to you, and keep on writing. And if I were a lit agent, you'd have a book contract in your mailbox already.

the circle of people you touch is far wider and much farther reaching than *his* could ever possibly be... and you've done it all through genuine honesty.

you are *hearted*

please keep being your honest, witty, intelligent self... you will triumph in the end...

yay kitties and knitting! life's little pleasures

and this from someone you don't even know

Hi Laurie,

Everyone has already said exactly what I want to say but I couldn't let today go by without adding my voice to the chorus.

Here's to you and that wonderful voice of yours! Fuck him indeed.

I have some champagne at home which I will promptly chill and toast to you this evening. And Bator will raise the cat nip for all of your kitties!

BRAVO Aunt Purl!!!!!

Just wanted to let you know I am thinking of you :) Be STRONG!

A therapist told me this story years ago. A student asks his master what the next step is on his path to enlightenment. The master says, "You have to walk through the "Room of A Thousand Demons" and exit through the other side. The Demons in the room will be all of the things that you are most afraid of.

The master says, "I will give you two pieces of advice to help you through. The first is that it is all an illusion, none of it is real. But once you are confronted with the things you are most afraid of, you will forget that it is not real. So, I will then give you the second piece of advice. Just keep your feet moving forward and you will eventually reach the other side."

divorce sucks. i hope you get half.

a man who says "i left my wife" is not attractive. payback's a bitch.

we too easily forget that the only guarantees are the ones we make for ourselves.

live the life you want to live.

take care :)

Wow! What a day to pick to start reading your blog!

Wishing you only the best of what your "new life" has to offer!

Wow! What a day to pick to start reading your blog!

Wishing you only the best of what your "new life" has to offer!

Sorry for the double posting! Like I said, first time... :)

My kitty, Quincy, and I are sitting here doing our afternoon ritual of reading your blog. We're both sending all of our strength your way, but it sounds like you don't need it. You should be very proud of yourself today.

Turn the corner and onto the next adventure.

Just sending hugs and positive vibes your way today!

I won't say that you are better off without him, because that someone belittles that good time that you had with him...

BUT.. I am proud of you for getting through this past year, proud of you for standing on your own two feet, and proud to "know" you. Enjoy that wine!

You're one of the strongest ladies I've ever met, dear. It hurt you, but ultimately you're better off without him; it's his loss.

Love you, darlin.

What they said.

Hang tough, girl. Smooth sailing, from here on out.

Yaaaaaay Aunt Purl!! Fuck him and his pissy little problems - I'd pick you any day! And I have to agree with Claudia. No divorce, no Crazy Aunt Purl. And I do love me some Crazy Aunt Purl!

OMG! You know my favorite joke--but it concerned an Indian and the US cavalry--so clever of you to use it in reference to a shark--so clever. Speaking of clever and creativity--I agree with others: he is never going to be as creative as you and he knows it. I'm really feeling that you could edit your blog, publish it and become famous--seriously. SERIOUSLY. But until you become world famous, I am delighted that you are sharing your enormous heart and spirit with the world, and most particularly, this happy little reader from Kansas.

I admire your strength and ability to make "lite" of life's curveballs. I don't know you, but I am proud of you just the same. You are a STRONG woman...

AND the shark he rode in on!

Coming out of lurk-dom to say Hells Yes for you, and that I think you are wonderful. I've been thinking about you all weekend (in the non-creepy way!) and I hope the rest of today is good to you. Keep your chin up, pretty lady!

wait a minute.

the shark is the victim in all of this. it's not his fault some asshole rode him!

(((((hugs)))))

(ps- i want roy to lick my eyebrow!)

Ditto everything said! Sounds like he was a tad threatened by you and your talents! Good riddens! you've got too much to offer and are too wonderful for someone to try and smother!

Wait a moment: you mean you DIDN'T write these wonderful things because you were afraid of hurting his feelings? What? And today who's the wordsmith? That would be YOU. I hope you realize that any man you may find in the future will NOT be holding you back like that. He will even gently push you to continue to express those lovely little right-brained thoughts and tell you how wonderful you are at them.

We have all given up parts of ourselves for a man (or woman) at some point in time in our pasts, and have learned from these mistakes. Never, I say *Never* lower yourself to someone else's level. I've done it too many times, and have learned those mistakes. Learned to not lower myself to the level of the men who cheated on me, to didn't call me, or didn't allow me to have my own friends, or told me how to do everything their way and it still wasn't good enough, and so many other degradations. But Now I have Ron.

2 years ago I told my (sorry to tell you but) wonderful husband Ron that I wanted to go back to school for 5 years to become a Doctor. I then told him how much it would cost, and how we would pay for it, and that I wouldn't have much time to spend with him after work or on weekends. He looked at me and said "OK!" (By the way, I did the same thing to him when I decided to buy a Harley Davidson).

Someday, when the time is right you will find someone who will not only listen to your dreams, but help you make them happen. He will even want to eat Sweetbreads in Paris, Pork Bento in Tokyo (not sushi, more like chicken fried pork), Alligator in Australia, Calamari in Rome, and Borsht in Moscow.

Until that time you will find out, and I think you already have found out just how wonderful and empowering the single life is. Well, single with four cats that is.

Oh good for you, you sound great. I was thinking about you and this being THE MONDAY while I was driving into work this morning. Was trying to send you good vibes but sounds like you don't need it. Glad today is going better for you than you'd thought.

Plus, we all get to enjoy your gift of wordsmithing.

Wishing you and the kitties and your hilarious family and awesome real life friends a wonderful day full of cuddles and clinks (of champagne glasses, that is!)

Today is the first day of FREEDOM!!

Your blog is touching and hysterically funny, but oh so painful and tender too. I reckon I can say "been there, done that." My ex tossed me aside like a snotty kleenex, but OH!The fun I had torturing him afterwards!!!Talk about therapy!Anyway-this is the first day of YOUR life, NO MORE of anything to do with his. It's ALL ABOUT YOU now, sweetie!Big Hugs to you from me and my Queen Cat, Bladie Mae who btw lives by the adage "I don't give a shit, I don't take any shit, I am not in the shit business." Life is "shit free" from now on! WOO-HOO!

Thought about you all weekend. Glad you're OK. Now breathe!!

Yaaaay for you! I know things are just going to get better from here. Tip back a glass of Veuve Cliquot for me, please!

I'm glad to hear Roy's better, too. :)

I'm sorry you went through such hell, but because of it you've made a whole bunch of invisible people on the internets smile and laugh. I have a hard time believing that Mr. X's writing could stack up to what you've got here - you've got a gift, Aunt Purl. Thanks for sharing.

I have been thinking of you all day too.

Isn't it a shame when you stop doing something you love because of another person?

Here is to your wonderful writing...and the fact that all of us get to share it on the internets...and that you are back writing.

I hope one day that you feel like we all do, that Mr X wasn't worthy of you, and that he is the one missing out.

{{HUGS}}

Laurie, I've been reading your blog for several months now and I would like you to know that not only are you the only reason I don't wish for the destruction of L.A....but I would actually book a plane flight to come visit you. In L.A.

The last two lines of this entry caused me to start laughing and crying at exactly the same time, which made me laugh more...but I'm still crying.

"Fuck him and the shark he rode in on." When is your book coming out? Would you like to visit Portland, my hometown? Or, shall we meet in Italy/Iceland/Australia?

You exist and I am so glad that you do.
-Ariel

Dearest Laurie and furry friends--

Obviously, we all love you MADLY.

Obviously, kind of a crap day.

But, much love to you from all over the world today--and, indeed, fuck him if he doesn't "get it."

I could probably write for days and days on this subject, but, I'll spare you! You are great! Be well today!

Love,

Kitty friends from up North

Time to change the banner on the blog, dearie! You are one free, sassy, intelligent, sexy and ever so wonderful WOman! We are all proud to know you and count you as a force in our lives!

Dippo ex-hub (the anal orifice) is gone. Roy and his siblings remain. YOU remain - upright, unbeaten and on your way to being famous.

We're all proud to know you. We all love you and celebrate this day with you (each with a glass of bubbly and a hanky, just in case).

How lucky we all are that he is gone. He may have left you but he gave you back your voice. We're listening!

Great job! Good work! We all love you.

We are listening intently while you LIVE OUT LOUD and we all love you for brightening our days with laughter, and yarn and cat pictures.

Laurie,
Here are some hugs to you--you deserve them. And not that I wish violence upon anyone, but would it be a terrible thing if the shark he rode in on ate him for lunch?

You'll get through this, too. Consider that shark jumped.

We all know what happened to the shark in Jaws...it got blowed up! Hang in there sweets. Life has the potential to provide us with all of our heart's desires. We must only open our eyes and allow it to happen. Sometimes exactly what we want is right in front of us.

Good for you, Laurie!

"May the fleas of a thousand camels infest the crotch of the person who screws up your day and may their arms be too short to scratch..."

Rock on, luv.
I definitely agree with your second-last sentence ;-)

I hope you give yourself a wonderful toast with your veuve - you deserve it! You have dealt with all the obstacles that have come before you with humor and amazing fortitude.

Cheers to you Laurie!

...And the Shark he rode in on....
Great name for a book....

i love you and your sparky attitude!

You go for it! My hubby and I congratulate you on your new life!

You go girl... you don't need him. You and the kitty crew are just fine.

Love you Laurie! You make me laugh (or sometimes cry) every single day, and I know you do the same thing for hundreds of other people who read your blog. You are a fantastic writer, and (I'm sure I speak for all when I say) we're all so glad you starting writing again. I raised a toast to you today. You rock.

"Closure is a myth."

God that is so true. What the heck is "closure" anyway? It's yourself trying to fool yourself that you can stop thinking about and re-living what is bothering you, when, in fact, that never ends. It just dulls itself over time, especially if you have good friends and wine to help it along.

Anyway, if we're following your "shark" theory, I'm going to point out that your ex has one hand out of the shark's mouth. Maybe he was testing the waters?

P.S. I like the improvement you've made to his face. Priceless.

Wouldn't it be the ultimate revenge if you ended being the writing superstar? (In my mind, you already are). I'm betting that your writing is read far more often by many more people than his ever will be, (and isn't that the point?). And when your first book gets published, (and it will be - you're too funny & talented to be limited to the internets), well, LOOK OUT! LAURIE's ON HER WAY! :-)

I'm just sayin'.

Me and the five cats on the east coast send our love today. Judging by the incredible outpouring of love here, I'd say you have lots of people who care about you.

My co-worker and I are thinking about making t-shirts that say "F**k you and the horse you rode in on" on the front, and on the back it will say "No, F**k you - the horse can stay!" If we ever do, I will send you one.

Many good wishes heading your way.

Ok, so I'm sitting here crying. You WRITE!!!!!
Write a book, a novel or non-fiction and I will be the first one in line to buy a copy.

One day there will be someone out there who recognizes and cherishes and would never harm all your fabulousness. Someone who treats you like the godess your cats know you to be.

I'm sorry Mr. X wasn't that person.

I don't have great post-divorce advice. I can only imagine how the finality of it must hurt.

What I do know is that hundreds of people do recognize your fabulousness, even without having met you. I hope that provides some consolation and the sense that you are not alone (well, how alone can a woman be who has a cat lick her awake each morning?).

And, just to stick in the back of your mind when the sadness and pain subsides a bit, this web posse is prime networking for someone who will love you most in this world. What else do knitting, cat-loving women like better than playing the yenta?

All's I'm saying...

Hoistin my frosty can O' Bud to ya and a handfull of Chili Cheese Fritos!!Here's to the future with endless possibilities.!!!I quit my stupid retail craft chain job today too!!Here's to waaay less B.S. and..... an inspired life all around.CHEERS!! Ms.Purlie Word Smith!!!!( I see a series of books.....autographed knitting needle sets....oh and the super exclusive limited edition cat fur yarns.....I only need 2 more skeins of Roy to finish this scarf!!!! and 1 more bottle of Shiraz.......heh...)

time for him to be put in your past. look to the future. what can you do to make every day better????

Like kidney stones, this too shall pass. It hurts like hell, but feels sooo good when it's over.

He is so yesterday.

We all look forward to YOUR tomorrows.

There will come a closure, in time, but it will sneek up on you and one day you will just realize that you haven't thought of that person in,,,I don't know how long. You will be completely well when you do not even give him a second thought. Remember, we are supposed to learn from our mistakes,,so we should about know damn near everything, right.. and as for sharks, yes you could fuck him,,but that requires thought, dont give him the pleasure of that,, there are also a lot of starfish out there in the sea,,I would rather go fishing for something new, beautiful, and healthy, than keep trolling the same old dark waters,, You don't need him to smile,,you don't need anything,, except control,,if you want a guy,,good guys are a dime a dozen,, enjoy your freedom.. Good luck.

You're a poet. Fuck yeah.

Right on! Wishing you many happy tomorrows. I've spent far too many days looking for a closure that never came. And truthfully, taking this journey with you keeps me motivated to do what needs to be done in my own life, lick my wounds, and keep on stepping. You may not realize it, I'm sure there are many people you've helped by being so open and honest about your life. What an awesome thing! You are one rockin' chick and I'm glad to know you.

Bravo, Laurie, Bravo. In a week I join you (and many other fabulous gals!!) in the ranks of being divorced, and whilst I was the one who left the marriage, you put into words so succinctly why I got married and what I believed in. Thank you so much for your words.

yeah! FUCK him!

Only worth coming out of lurkdom for this, I'm sorry for your pain, but no question who is the loser in this. Personally, I think we readers owe an enormous debt to the dirtball, without the loss of him, would we have ever gotten to know you? Perhaps we could send him a nationwide thank you note for the enormous sacrifice he has made for the greater good of the world,...and fiber? Wish we could give you a big hug, but I know you have friends and cats to make you laugh and that is probably more therapeutic. Daryl

Laurie, I'm so proud of you! (and I mean that in the most earnest, un-condescending way possible). It's all ahead of you now, it really is. You finally have the opportunity to make your life what *you* want it to be without a single hurdle standing in your way. The divorce is final, and your life? Is all yours.

I don't have much else to add but, you go girl. A cliche, perhaps, but meant with great sentiment. You're better than that. You deserve all the best.

Thank you for opening up, sharing and making me laugh on a daily basis! (oh and for all the sweet kitty pics!)

You just rock. Champagne, yarn, and chocolate. I love it. And http://boiknit.blogspot.com/ (Kenny), GO FUCK YOURSELF!!

I can't add much to everyone else's comments but Well Done. For being strong (even if it didn't feel like it), for writing, for retaining the sense of humour, for sharing, for getting on with it when you needed to and for realising that this day is just another day.
Keep writing cos its great!
Laura x

You go girl! Wow you sure do have a lot of support! You are an inspiration! Your sense of humor is great, thanks for making me laugh everyday!

Congratulations and {{hugs}}.

*great big huge smothering hug*

You rock! I so admire the courage and grace you are showing through all this, even if you don't feel courageous or gracious you are. You are a class act. I am addicted to your blog. You inspire me. And I second your emotion- fuck him and the shark he rode in on!

Another (((hug))) coming your way!

Your soulmate is out there, don't give up hope.

Time heals all wounds, but wine helps in the meantime :)

Your comment about the ex wanting to be the "wordsmith" in the family reminded me of my Grandmother. She was a brillant writer, had an advance book deal back in the 50's. I stumbled across the first two chapters while helping her clean out her apartment in the late 80's. Growing up I always had thought she should have been a writer--her letters were like poetry. Little did I know.

When I asked her why she never finished the book, she responded by saying, "Oh, your Grandfather was the real writer."

No. Actually he wasn't. Couldn't hold a candle to my Grandmother. A few months later she died. A dream unfulfilled. A gift never truly used.

Your dream is within your reach and our lives are all richer for your gift.

Shine on, sister.

I think Rhett (WAY UP THERE) had the BEST idea:

You should write a book. A) You're pee-your-pants hilarious B) Your writing is so much fun to read, complete with Southernisms and C) Well, maybe I would finally learn how to knit in the round if I had step-by-step instructions from somebody I suspect to be as functional-yet-busted-in-the-best-possible-way as myself. Hehehe. Besides, you really would be helping Sobokawa in her quest for world domination, and that's what real love is - a mutual benefit for both parties. Obviously, Mr. X is a selfish, selfish boy. Yes, boy. Because no real MAN would treat somebody as awesome as you like dirt.

Keep it coming Laurie, and put it down, and find yourself a publisher. You have my advance order for sure.

YOU WIN, HE LOSES.... HE'S A LOSER, SO THERE. WE ALL LOVE YOU BEST! YOU'VE GOT MY TOUGHTS TODAY, ON TUESDAY, SINCE I'M BEHIND A DAY FOR TORTUROUS WORK REASONS!

BE COOOL SISTAH, YOU ARE THE BEST!

I love you for this post! You have said it all and said it well. Thank you.

hooray for you, crazy lady!

You are awesome- just look at the response to your blog. You keep moving forward!

*sob*

(*again*)

you are, as you know, inspiration. for writing, for living, for drinking wine, for knitting, for telling the truth (no matter how hard -- or ridiculous -- that truth may be).

in a most selfish way, i am so glad he left you. if he hadn't been so horrible, we might never have gotten to meet you. and that would be most tragic.

laurie, you have changed my life. thanks so much for being who you are.

and P.S.

any DUMBASS who allows (let alone encourages) you to NOT WRITE deserves to be bound to a chair with cheap scratchy yarn and poked with the needles of all your adoring fans.

it makes me want to stomp on his foot and punch him in the nose.

If it helps any.. at one point in your life he'll just be someone that you "used to be married to"...and you'll ask yourself:

WTF was I thinking??????

Oh....and he'll cross your mind oh..maybe once a year or so.

Tink (who has been there...and then cradle snatched a 21 year old..and 17 years later, has never looked back. :)

Sounds like you are on yr way to, if not closure, whatever it is that will make him seem like a hiccup in yr past. Just make sure not to drown the hiccup with anything too strong madam. You need to be lucid enough to enjoy how good it will feel when he is finally put back on the shelf of irrelevant memories we keep.

Will keep reading you... Good luck.