WOMEN AGES 50+ FOR OCTOBER 2019

I'm Rhonda, and go by Rho and Rhoni. I was born into in a physically active family and raised in Southern California. In college I studied nursing, dropped out, then traveled for a few years before settling down and having children. I have two long term relationships from the past; i.e. an ex-husband and an ex-spouse.

My ex-husband and I grew up as neighbors, got married, had our eldest son, moved to Oregon, started a business, divorced amicably and happily shared joint custody. We have remained friends for more than fifty years, and since neither of us have extended family in Oregon we’ve helped each other weather various life challenges.

I met my ex-spouse at a very vulnerable point in my life. He was charming, a respected member of my church, and a single parent to his young son. We had a girl and boy together within thirteen months, and I learned he was also a liar, a cheater, a thief and abusive. With the focus on having a better life for myself and my children, I worked part-time jobs and took college courses in secrete while he was at work. During trial proceedings, my ex-spouse was diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder and I was awarded custody our two children and the son from his previous marriage. Thus, I raised three boys and a daughter albeit with help from my ex-husband.

I completed two bachelor degrees, worked in accounting related jobs in the corporate sector for many years, and my sons grew up to be very fine men. They live nearby, as does my ex-husband and his wife, and I have one grand-daughter. Individually and as an extended family we volunteer in various endeavors that serve the disadvantaged. My daughter, however, has substance abuse issues. She and I have been estranged for 15 years. My sons hear from her or see her when she’s in a crisis. We’ve come to accept with compassion that interests and priorities often differ between siblings, but also greatly differ between parent and child.

Over the years, I dated infrequently but avoided partnering again like a cat avoids water. That is until I met my boyfriend, whose personal background is similar to mine. We’ve been together five years and feel very fortunate we found each other. He’s thoughtful and keeps me smiling a lot. Oct 15 will mark two years living together on the southern edge of Portland, Oregon near forests, wildlife habitat and the Willamette River.

I was trim and in great shape until breaking my left foot in four places several years ago while playing basketball with two of my sons. Recovery took a long time, during which I became inactive, adopted poor eating habits and gained 60 lbs. I originally joined MFP in 2016, but was waylaid by undergoing five (not too serious, yet necessary) surgeries. I’m semi-retired and 66 now. The foot is fine. I became a member of this group in Sept 2019 with the goal of returning to having good health habits and shedding 50 pounds!