Very much appreciation on all the thoughts and the understanding that this still warrants therapy discussion.

One of the unusual twists to this situation; when I mentioned our differing relationshiop with our father growing up, well hers was the more difficult one. He is a very intense personality, as is she. I am more--was more--mellow. (hard to say I STILL am with an anxiety disorder!)

So, I was the golden child. I imagine for some people it may be a good role to have, and I don't pretend that I would want to trade places and be the black sheep. However, I can't say that I relished my role either. I instead felt burdened. I was torn between a need to achieve for my parents but to achieve quietly. Because I felt tremendous guilt in succeeding when a loved one was struggling. I saw how much my dad's criticisms hurt her. So yeah, that's kind of how our history went. I am happy to say that they have long since worked through their struggles....so though that early relationship likely affects who she is today...the relationship they have now is a good one.

Again, thanks again for your thoughts. Usually my journal is enough to help me compose my thoughts and prepare for what I need during a therapy session, but this time I needed more.