in terms of seeing it as a bad decision, based on some sort of low-self esteem issues–i would say that making a decision like that is also completely ballsy and indicative of a very strong character. (which, obviously, sums you up!) how could you know?

i have a story that is slightly similar (only without the abduction part). when i was sixteen, a london policeman became very enamored of me when i was staying at my grandparents, and so decided to find out where i lived (80 miles from London) and stalk me each day after school. he was a *policeman* for chrissakes. (and 32, EWWW).

yes, i know i am being naive, but somehow london coppers just seem like *good sorts.* well, unarmed, at least.

i might post on it myself one day. but thanks for this–best bit of literature i’ve read all day.

I am scared to death of having a daughter. I want so badly to instill in her that she is her own person and to be comfortable in her skin. I also want her to realize that learning to love yourself should always take precedent over love and attention from a man. I did the opposite. I fell in love first and because of this entered a 4 year abusive relationship.

I ended up leaving the bastard, but fell prey to him for the same reasons you got involved with “Creepy.”

I believe that these experiences will help us to raise our daughters. It is actually comforting to think that perhaps something good can come from them. Our little ones will, hopefully, never have to go through anything similar to what we did!

Not possible? Gah. Maternal love is gonna be a bitch.

And by the way, your daughters hat? Perfect.

And gorgeous photo of your daughter…