I've never had someone come into my home and critique my way of life, or the way that I've raised my children. Yes, I have in-laws, but somehow getting the legal system involved just isn't the same. In my heart, I know that my children are loved, safe, and have a happy home — but at the same time there's just no denying my nervousness.

There is no way to dictate how the visit will go — if the kids will be in a good mood, or if they'll feel comfortable having someone new in the house. I'll explain to them, of course, that the guardian is coming to visit, but I'll need to find the right way to describe to them what's really going on. I need to find a way to tell them that the contact they have with this person will impact their lives so whole-heartedly. It's really scary in this position.

Here I am, coming from an abusive relationship and my world is literally turned upside down, pretty much on a weekly basis. I struggle to remain standing upright and not suffer from vertigo. I know I can do it! Even if I do fall down, I will get back up. That's a promise I've made to myself. I've lived nine years in this relationship — I have many, many more to live outside of it.