Hang in there Gilly
It looks to me like you guys are really doing a good job of making the best of what comes your way. Remember there are no bad experiences. They are only bad if we perceive them to be. Really they are steps along the way to a better situation. From all experiences you learn and it looks to me like you guys are learning and figuring out how to be the best you can be given the situation. I think you are doing a great job of looking forward and planning for better days. I applaud you. Hang in there - things will get better for you.