It was nine years ago, on this day, that I succeeded in my custody case and brought my daughter back to the town I now live in.

For those on BCTS who knew me at the time, my elation at the time was immeasurable. Of course, moving a nine year old into a new setting is likely to cause emotional upset and logistical issues. Fortunately I had a place in a new school reserved, but it still took two months for her records (transcripts) to be transferred despite best efforts. I made it clear to the court, and every other professional, that I had not 'won' custody and that the ex hadn't 'lost' but, rather, that I had offered to protect my daughter from harm. Social Services, the Police, her schools and healthcare professionals all agreed with me, fortunately, and the court hearing was very quick.

Amazingly, she's now 18 and still with me, we've had our ups & downs but never fallen out, although I did suggest a few times that she could move in with her mother when every other attempt at a peace offering had failed. The court order lapsed a few months ago so she's now legally able to do as she wishes, but somehow staying with me is better than any alternative!

Her mother is still bitter but has now alienated her own family, to the extent she's not invited to her own mother's 70th birthday party.

I started writing my stories back in 2008 when I was separated from the ex and the divorce was ongoing. Access to my children was sporadic and difficult and I needed a diversion to lift me out of a deep depression. That solicited Eve, UG and Tammy plus a few standalones. Indeed Tammy started as a standalone for an All Hallows Eve competition. (The publication dates won't concur as all the stories have been reposted at later times).

I mentioned children, plural. I also have a son who is now 21 and currently working overseas - I next see him in two weeks time. His life is considerably more complicated than that of his sister;s but he's seen his mother twice in the past 9 years and now won't talk to her. He's going to his Nan's birthday party, as is his sister.

So I guess I'm blessed.

Shiraz