Lex, I hope you are right and I have to say I have big doubts as she is not acting in a way that tells me I have had any impact on her at all. And then there is the confusion I feel. I have totally separated from my birth family due to ongoing abuse. So what does it mean that she has left me? Am I an abusive mom? I have decided having kids is really hard. I don't think there is anything more difficult. My son is here now and he is suddenly holding onto the traditions of our family this time of year. That is showing me he is growing up. I am confused