Perhaps this is a turning point in your life. Instead of dreading the upcoming weekend, why not view it as a stage of growth. Yes, there will be times you'll want to run and hide, which may be a good idea. Bring a book, a deck of cards, etc., stuff that you can amuse yourself with and find a comfy spot every once in a while. You don't have to be a social butterfly every second you're there.

As for the moving away to the cabin and the license, do the license my dear, you'll have an incredible sense of freedom once you do. The move will not be an issue if you get the license. With you being abused in the 'same area' well, it wasn't the cabin now was it?

Lexie, stress comes and stress goes, if you remain afraid of things that shouldn't mean anything all your life, don't move. Don't get the license to drive. Don't make new friends. Don't hope to make your man proud of you for your courage. Who by the way, must love you a lot. He wants you to stretch a little because he knows it's good for you.

A few weeks ago we went to a movie, my hubby and me, and after that we stopped at a very busy restaurant bread shop to pick up some buns. I am like you, crowds make me nervous, and I have always tried to get my hubby to deal with clerks etc. Well, I had to ask the girl for the two particular loaves, and when waiting in line I realized I was getting nervous about it for some reason. I thought a few minutes about and discovered it was because I looked to other people for acceptance. BUT THIS WAS A STORE CLERK FOR GOODNESS SAKE!?!?!?! LOL! Why would I want acceptance from her? So just be nice I thought, order the stuff, pay for it and you're homefree! After I paid for it and walked away, I felt a real sense of pride. Silly huh? For just ordering bread. But I think my hubby was also watching me and I wanted him to know I wasn't a helpless thing either.