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Why Rushing Into Relationships Might be a Bad Idea

In my Love Essentially column that came out today in Sun-Times Media Local, I talk about reasons why men and women rush into relationships, and why rushing into relationships isn’t always wise. What baffles my mind, even more than single people rushing into a relationship is when divorced people do it. I really just don’t … Read more

Divorce and Binge Eating: I Get It

Divorce and binge eating is something I am personally familiar with. Years ago, when I was getting divorced, I can remember being so stressed (a combination of anxiety, anger, fear, sadness, hopelessness) that at times I used food to cope. More than just a few times I would stand in front of my freezer shoveling … Read more

thinking about separation

Man Thinking About Separation: Should I Stay or Should I Go?

Here is an email from a man thinking about separation from his wife. I truly feel for him because it really is a tormenting decision to have to make. Jackie,  I’m thinking about separation. A few months ago I found out my wife was cheating on me and now I’ve been left with the decision … Read more

We’re Into Each Other! So Why is His Profile Still on Dating Websites?

In my “Love Essentially” column published today in the Sun-Times Media local publications, I respond to a reader’s e-mail regarding a guy she met on one of the dating websites, who she really likes. There’s one red flag: his profile is still active on the site! Here’s my advice to her.   Jackie, “I dated … Read more

Dealing With the Pain of Divorce: Sometimes You Just Need to be Crazy

A reader sent me the following e-mail that I can’t resist sharing because it sparks a discussion about dealing with the pain of divorce, and how that pain, which can be gut-wrenching at times, can cause us to act crazy. The reader refers to the Miranda Lambert Song, “Mama’s Broken Heart,” where Lambert is going … Read more

how to end a relationship on good terms

How to End a Relationship on Good Terms with the Prince Turned Frog

When I got an email from a reader asking how to end a relationship on good terms, I immediately thought of the famous post it note that Berger gave Carrie on Sex and The City. that read “I’m sorry, I cant. Don’t hate me.”     Here is the email I received: I recently met … Read more

Let’s Talk About Sex After Divorce–Safe Sex, That Is

Divorced Girl Smiling received this e-mail from a reader seeking advice about sex after divorce and how to be safe. I went out with a guy a couple of times and we really hit it off. Our relationship quickly became physical and in the heat of the moment, I did not address the issue of … Read more

dating a coworker

Dating a Coworker is Sexy but Not Always Wise

There’s nothing more romantic than sneaking into a supply closet at work with your new boyfriend or girlfriend — who is also your coworker — to start kissing. Your secret relationship from the rest of the office is sexy, exciting and fun. But, dating a coworker has its challenges, including the risk of damaging your … Read more

divorce movie

Divorce Movie Sends Powerful Message

 I finally had a chance to see the divorce movie, Enough Said, a romantic comedy about dating after divorce with James Gandolfini (the last movie he made before he died) and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.  Aside from the fact that it was a delightful, entertaining story, done with great taste, amazing writing and two top-notch actors, there was … Read more

argument with your spouse

Saying These 10 Things Will Surely Start An Argument With Your Spouse

  Everyone argues. Let’s be honest. Even the happiest couples fight. But there are certain things you can say that are sure to start an argument with your spouse. Saying the wrong thing could make the difference between a minor disagreement and a major battle! Here are 10 things to say to your spouse that … Read more

single dads

18 Things I Love About Single Dads

I can spot them really easily. I’m talking about single dads. I guess it’s because I’ve been divorced for so long, I just have a sixth sense. For example, the other day at the grocery store, I see this guy. In his cart were the following: Ice, soda and chips. Then he stopped to buy … Read more

It’s Complicated! Relationship Advice for A Divorced Woman

The Sun-Times received this letter from a divorced woman asking for relationship advice. Jackie, I am at a point in my life where I am questioning my relationship. I feel like it could be several things, such as not feeling like I have forgiven myself for my decisions and therefore don’t love myself fully; not … Read more