Jackie, I am a single mom of a 16 year old and a 2 year old looking for divorce advice. My 16 year old is from my first husband and we have a great relationship. My 2 year-old’s father and I broke up a week before our son turned a year old. About 6 weeks … Read more
I don’t know one divorced woman or man (or anyone on earth-divorced or not) who doesn’t have days or even longer times when things seem to be imploding in their worlds. In my own situation, I describe those periods of time as feeling like I’m in a dodge ball game, and the balls just keep … Read more
I’ll never forget the first time I ever met my ex-husband’s new girlfriend. She was beautiful, blonde, much younger than me, and the worst one: NICE! I felt sick. I felt old. I felt ugly. I felt depressed. I really wanted to hate her guts. The problem was, I just couldn’t. She was (is) so … Read more
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
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
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
One of the most complicated aspects of dating after divorce with kids is deciding when and how often your new guy (or girl) will be around your kids. Is it going to be one of those relationships that you keep separate from your kids and only get together when the kids are with your ex? … Read more
Those three little words that we all long to hear from the man or woman we adore can mean the world, but if said at an inopportune time or under the wrong circumstances, “I love you” can be a dreaded statement that might cause confusion, embarrassment or even regret. So, how do you know when … Read more
Divorced Girl Smiling is meant to give divorce advice to men and women who are either thinking of getting divorced, going through a divorce, or who are already divorced. But my own situation has made me realize that there is another group of people who are in need of divorce advice, whether they are married … Read more
When it comes to divorce and children, Dr. Cassandra Friedman, Ph.D, LCPC, CADC has seen and heard her share of stories. Friedman has been an adolescent, adult and family therapist for 30 years, whose patients include dozens of children with divorced parents. That means she hears things. Actually, I bet she hears LOTS of things … Read more
This is a comment that Divorced Girl Smiling received from a cheating spouse, along with my comments and advice. I have been married 17 years to my wife and we have 3 great kids. I’ve been unhappy for a long time. It’s one of those situations where it was just the way it was, and … Read more
Awhile back, I wrote a blog called “Honey, I want a divorce: When the Woman decides to Leave.” It’s one of the most highly viewed posts I’ve written. I can’t count the number of women who have responded who can relate. But, the post also seems to infuriate some men and bring out a tremendous … Read more
Subscribe now to receive our free e-books on navigating divorce and dating-your ultimate guides to a fresh start.
Plus, join our weekly newsletter for empowering articles, expert advice, and heartfelt stories tailored just for you.
