Your comment about adding one thing at a time in a slow process seems like a great approach.

I've basically backed out of everything except work and some family things. All of it seemed like such a waste of effort. As you say, I'm trying to grow the family things back that had kind of evaporated over the years, a little at a time.

I haven't announced any of this, just started doing it. Trying to spend more time with family and be more engaged when I'm with them. A couple times individuals have noticed that something is different and asked is everything all right?

What I wanted to say was NO, NOTHING HAS BEEN ALL RIGHT FOR YEARS -- DIDN'T YOU NOTICE ... but, kept my cool and said, "Sure, what make you ask?" ....

I think one of my milestones will be when I can laugh at light hearted jokes and one liners that go on in our family -- and mean it, actually feel the laughter.

as you say - slowly.
Thanks Sky