Hi. I'm new here.

[Guest guest]

Wow! I can't believe a place like this actually exists. I am so glad I went and

browsed the bookstore for an hour today, after I went to the gym for an hour,

after I'd been at work since 7:45 am. Which is avoidance behavior I just

realized. I just read 'Stop Walking on Eggshells' cover to cover, and I'll

probably start it again before I cry myself to sleep ... with relief.

I moved back in with my parents about 1-1/2 years ago, after living out of the

house since I was 18 (I'm 33), when my dad (my non-BP buddy) was diagnosed with

Stage 3 prostate cancer. It's been a long road, but he is doing well now and has

his last chemo treatment March 15 ... Tuesday!

When I was younger, I always thought I harbored some sort of deep-seated

resentment towards my mother for all the put-downs, insults, fits of rage, slaps

and beatings I endured as a child. And that was the reason I never wanted to be

around for very long. I've had some therapy, not ever very good, and now that I

have a new job with awesome-town healthcare insurance, I think I will actually

take advantage of the mental health package.

For this very reason. After reading the book, and browsing this site, I realize

in my heart what I've known in my over-active cerebrum for quite some time ...

my mother's behavior is NOT MY FAULT. Wow, I'll say it again. NOT MY FAULT.

What a relief. Now I just have to learn how to deal with her behavior. I have a

question for the forum, Do any of you deal with a BP that is a compulsive

gambler and shopper, and also a hoarder? I am assuming all this is tied in

together somehow. The book mentions substance abuse, and I have actually said

before that I wish she were a drinker or a crack smoker, because I'd know how to

deal with that better. I was absolutely amazed at the condition of the house

when I came back. Just about every room (except for my room, my Dad's room and

the living room) is hoarded. And UPS drops off more HSN and QVC everyday. Is

this common? Just wondering.

It's not like I can do anything about it. I've threatened to contact A & E's

Hoarders/Intervention to come to the house, but she says I'd be wasting my time

because she's not a hoarder or a compulsive gambler.

But, I digress. Thanks for letting me join. I am really really really happy to

be here!