I read a book called Juicy Tomatoes: Plain Truths Dumb Lies and Sisterly Advice about Life After 50 by Susan Swartz. She talks about losing the domesticating effects of estrogen as we go through menopause. It was exactly what happened to me. I was simply no longer able to tolerate My Life for the sake of making a nest for my kids. It was more than a wake up call — as you said — I completely changed in personality & spirit. The transformation was profound.