Five years ago today, I made one of the most significant and difficult decision of my life.  The thing is, I have written and rewritten this post numerous times over the past few days as I am not sure how much I actually want to share. So, I'll move on past all the details and onto the difference that five years has made for me.

• These years have shown me that I am stronger than I ever thought possible.
• Instead of constantly living from one pay check to another and often not having enough money to pay the bills, I can happily share that all my bills are paid on time, I have a small savings balance and come February 2013, all my loans will be paid off. I will be debt free!! 
• I live in a lovely flat, with nice furniture. It's taken working two jobs and slowly buying new items once I could afford them but I'm there know.
• Most days my life feels much more peaceful than what it used to. I know longer need to be worrying about any sudden changes.
• I am a happier person than what I used to be.  
• I'm free to go where I want and when I want, and I can spend my money however I wish.
• I'm making new friends and am able to keep those relationships going.
• My confidence is growing and I am learning to stand up for myself more often.