Hello and welcome, PaintedToe Nail!
I'm a non-jw with some family in the org, and also "bad association" because I didn't progress well with my "Bible" study.
However! I'm a also drug-free, VD-free non-smoker who raised my children equally healthy in mind and body. I can relate to the "addictve personality" thing - I enjoy good food rather too much, and that means a lot of exercise!
It's great to hear that your child will go to college!
I'm very sorry to hear you were abused as a child, and am sure that going out in service on Christmas must have been a nightmare.
I know some genuine, good people among the jws and I'm sure there are some good things to be found in the religion. I wish they would let me be a friend; I'd be entirely happy to avoid any contentious subjects.
I respect your courage in reading and posting here. Remember, truth has nothing to fear from examination and discussion.
Hope you stay around, Retro