Table of Contents

Acknowledgments 11

Part 1 We're in This Together 13

1 Who in the World Are Barbara and Susan? 15

2 Am I the Only One Who Feels This Way? 23

Karen's Story 34

Part 2 Let's Get Honest 37

3 What Do I Do With My Loneliness? 39

Helen's Story 51

4 What Do I Do With My Disappointments? 53

Julia's Story 69

5 How Do I Relate to My Husband Now? 71

Maggie's Story 91

6 How Do I Relate to My Adult Kids Now? 93

Ann's Story 113

7 How Do I Care for My Extended Family? 115

Christie's Story 129

8 What Do I Do With Me? 131

Your Story 141

Part 3 Let's Move Forward 145

9 Take a Break! 147

Debbie's Story 165

10 Celebrate1 167

Tracy's Story 180

11 Discovering Your New Purpose 183

Elaine and Bob's Story 197

12 Changing Your World 199

Epilogue: Barbara and Susan Today 207

Appendix 1 Helpful Hints for Caring for Your Parents and In-Laws As They Age 211

Appendix 2 Helpful Hints for Growing in a Relationship With Christ 215

Appendix 3 A Daily Focus on the Character of God 219

Appendix 4 Values Assessment Exercise 223

Small Group and Book Club Study Guide 225

Notes 245