New here? Say hello
Pinned post by Malcolm - Community Founder
Hey everyone,
I’m Malcolm, and I started Love Over Exile three years ago when I was sitting in my car outside a McDonald’s in Portland, crying because my daughter Emma had just hung up on me for the third time that week. She was 12 then. I thought I was losing my mind.
If you’ve found your way here, chances are you know that feeling. The one where the ground has shifted under everything you thought you knew about being a parent.
This thread is for introductions — your first hello if you want to give one. Use whatever name feels right. Sarah, Dad42, Heartbroken in Houston — doesn’t matter to us. Share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with. Some folks write novels, others just say “hi, I’m here.” Both are perfect.
You’ll notice we use stage tags here — they help people find others in similar situations:
Early Days - Just realized what’s happening, still trying to make sense of it all
Crisis Mode - In the thick of legal battles, emergency situations, or major changes
Long Haul - Been at this for a while, learning to live with the new reality
Reconnection - Working on rebuilding relationships with kids
Mentor - Been through it, here to support others
Don’t stress about picking the “right” one. I’ve been every single one of these at different times. Sometimes in the same week.
This community gets it. We’ve all sat in that car, staring at our phones, wondering how we got here. You’re not alone in this, and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
Welcome. I’m glad you found us, even though I’m sorry you had to.
Malcolm