lawyer not responding

Why is My Lawyer Not Responding?

During divorce, it’s pretty easy to let your thoughts swirl and become stressed. Those questions that go through your mind at 2 a.m. as you lie in bed, unable to sleep. What is going to happen to my children? Will I have a place to live tomorrow…next week…next month? Will I have any friends after … Read more

my partners negativity is draining me

My Partner’s Negativity is Draining Me

I’d like to think I’m a pretty positive person. After all, I’m not sure I could be running Divorced Girl Smiling otherwise. Positivity is the essence of the Divorced Girl Smiling brand. So when a friend of mine recently said: “My partner’s negativity is draining me,” I truly felt for her. She went on to … Read more

should I rent or buy a house

Should I Rent or Buy a House After Divorce?

Divorce brings significant life changes, and one of the biggest questions many people ask is: Should I rent or buy a house after divorce? Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, and the right choice on whether to rent or buy depends on personal circumstances, finances, and long-term goals. Here’s a breakdown of the pros … Read more

men and divorce

Men and Divorce: Everything a Woman Should Know

Divorce is undeniably one of life’s most challenging transitions, and men often experience it in ways that may not always be visible. When it comes to men and divorce, we are wired differently than women, usually uniquely expressing pride, strength, and independence. These traits can sometimes make it harder for men to seek help or … Read more

conflict reduction

A Great Tool for Conflict Reduction in Co-parenting

I want to address a wonderful tool for conflict reduction in co-parenting. It’s for those struggling with co-parenting communication, those who feel like your ex isn’t listening, and those who fear your children are caught in the crossfire. As a divorce coach, I hear harrowing stories of conflict between co-parents. And, I know that protecting … Read more

how to stop obsessing about an ex

How To Stop Obsessing Over An Ex: 5 Tips

I find that when people get divorced, oftentimes, they spend a significant time thinking about what went wrong, diagnosing the issues and their ex’s behavior, and replaying the demise of the marriage over and over and over again. Why is he the way he is? He’s a narcissist! Why did he do this or that? He’s so selfish! How … Read more

mediation vs litigation

Mediation vs Litigation: Weighing the Two Processes

Divorce can be one of the most stressful and emotional experiences in a person’s life. In Illinois, there are multiple ways to approach the legal process of ending a marriage, and two of the most common methods are “mediation” and “litigation”. Let’s weigh the two: mediation vs litigation. Both have distinct characteristics and can have … Read more

unfair divorce

Going Through An Unfair Divorce?

Ever have one of those days when everything in your divorce seems really unfair? Let’s talk about an unfair divorce. I’ll start with an example.   I talked to a woman recently who has a full time job and is struggling to pay her bills. Her ex has not paid child support (which was court … Read more

buying a house for the first time

Buying a House for the First Time After Divorce

Buying a house for the first time after divorce? It’s scary! It’s stressful! It’s exciting! I understand all of those emotions.Whether you’re stepping into the real estate market for the first time or re-entering it as a newly divorced individual, finding the right buyer’s agent is crucial. What exactly is a a buyer’s agent? A … Read more

spouse hiding money

Do You Suspect Your Spouse is Hiding Money?

We all know how difficult the divorce process is. In addition to feelings of loss and sadness, the legal process of divorce can be overwhelming and burdensome. But when your spouse is hiding money, orif you suspect it, it takes things to another level. It’s bad enough that you have to walk away from this … Read more