Hi Kuovonne,

You've clearly thought through the situation. As I said, it's pretty unlikely to happen, but it *could*. That's what the site is all about... situations that could happen and how to prepare for them.

Anyway, I personally have no problem with those who don't like or want guns. One of my best friends is adamantly opposed to even the 2nd Amendment. He doesn't think any non mil or LEO should have them for ANY reason. I am quite the opposite, but I respect his viewpoint. I think that some folks get carried away simply because they so emphatically believe something that they can't see the other side of the coin or that it might have some basis in valid argument. I certainly hope you don't take a few "out of the ballpark" comments and decide to go back to lurking. You are obviously not stupid and have done more than many on the subject; which is to educate yourself and think about the situation and the consequences as they fit YOU. Thinking and learning, is more than the general populace can say about themselves. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Learning to handle and effectively utilize firearms is a large undertaking. I, am in fact, a little out of practice at the moment. Same goes for Martial Arts. Both cost money and take time. At least for Martial Arts, money and time are both big factors in people not sticking with it. I completely understand the situation as my own workload has kept me out of class quite a bit for the first half of this year.

I would say that even a couple of hours at a women's self-defense seminar would be VERY helpful. You can practice things lightly and slowly with your hubby until the next class is held, like 6 mo. later. They are typically free or very low cost. I know that many are "donation" driven and will allow someone in for free if requested. Several of the women in my class have come over full time to karate from yoga and aerobics since the workout is as good and costs about the same, and they get permanent benefits... maybe there are kickboxing or similar hybrid MA classes you would enjoy.

I'm glad that you clarified that you questioning your ability to defend yourself WITH A GUN. That changes things. Hopefully you don't feel that way about yourself in general, but even that can be helped with time and encouragement.

I would just leave you with a parting thought... Avoidance is important, but sometimes it is not possible to run away. Certainly in the home it poses problems. And with kids, I'm sure you wouldn't be willing to leave them behind. Don't ever count yourself out. Keep moving and fighting until you are dead... you just might win. Go for the throat and eyes and groin in a life or death situation. Learning to kick hard to the side of the knee might disable your attacker enough to get your kids and get out too... Even the weakest kids in our classes could probably snap my knee if they hit it right. Legs are mighty powerful. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />