FIVE years ago my husband of 16 years sat me down and told me all the things he disliked about me - then told me he was leaving me for his 26-year-old PA. I was left with the realisation my marriage had been a joke and I had been living it alone with my three boys. I had stayed at home to be a mother and housewife and worked at my career part-time, while he got on with his illustrious career...and got it on with anyone he could get his hands on. But from one dreadful experience to another, I kept a journal/blog and I shared it with those around me - and the Duct Tape Diaries were born - the story of me. Over time, I started to re-build myself in ways I never thought possible. I got stronger. I got braver. And I learned skills I never thought I would. Pieces of me that were fragments slowly came together to create this life that I am now leading with more integrity and happiness than ever before. Mind you, I still have days where I pay my bills on time and days where the phone and/or electricity get disconnected. But I know, I will make it through (if not with a little more Duct Tape ) My story is not unusual and, sadly, it's not unique. But, by telling it, I have found it helps me to heal. And my hope is that it will help others who may need a little Duct Tape of their own.