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World Mental Health Day, recognized on October 10, is an opportunity to raise awareness about mental health issues, and one area where mental well-being is paramount is during a divorce. Divorce is not only a legal process but an emotional journey that can impact your mental health significantly. During a divorce, individuals may experience a range of emotions, from grief and anger to relief and fear. These emotions, if not addressed, can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, or depression. Recognizing the emotional toll and seeking support during this transition is crucial for maintaining mental health. Managing Emotional Impact: • Acknowledge your feelings:  It’s essential to permit yourself to feel the emotions that come with divorce, whether it’s sadness, frustration, or confusion. Suppressing emotions can make them more challenging to manage in the long run. • Seek professional help:  Therapy or counseling can be a lifeline during and after a divorce. Mental health professionals can offer coping strategies to help process your emotions and regain a sense of stability. • Build a support network:  Surround yourself with friends, family, or support groups who can offer both emotional and practical assistance. You don’t have to go through it alone. • Self-care:  Prioritize activities that reduce stress and foster a sense of well-being, such as exercise, hobbies, or simply relaxing. Supporting Children Through Divorce: If you have children, their mental health during this time is also critical. Children can experience confusion, guilt, or fear, making it essential to ensure open communication, reassure them, and possibly seek professional support for them as well. Long-Term Mental Health Post-Divorce: Healing doesn’t end when the legal proceedings are over. It’s important to continue focusing on mental health, as it takes time to rebuild a new sense of normalcy and well-being. Developing new routines, rediscovering hobbies, and nurturing relationships can help move forward positively. As we mark World Mental Health Day , let’s remember that seeking help and prioritizing mental health—especially during life-altering events like divorce—is an act of strength and self-care. It’s a step toward healing and rebuilding. With Love, Erin

Positive thinking is a powerful tool that can transform your outlook on life and improve your overall well-being. It involves focusing on the good in every situation, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, and maintaining an optimistic mindset even in difficult times. Shifting your thoughts towards positivity can reduce stress, enhance your mental health, and foster resilience. Positive thinking doesn’t mean ignoring life’s struggles but approaching them with a hopeful and constructive attitude, paving the way for personal empowerment and success.  “This is a fresh chapter of my life, full of new opportunities.”  “I am learning who I truly am and what makes me happy.” “This experience makes me more resilient.”  “I deserve love, joy, and peace in my life.” “Every challenge is a lesson for growth and self-improvement.”  “I am free to pursue my passions and goals.”  “I am learning to love and value myself more daily.” “Healing takes time, and I am patient with myself.”  “My future holds endless possibilities for joy and fulfillment.” “I am in control of my life and happiness.” “Letting go allows me to make space for new and better experiences.” “I am grateful for the growth this journey brings.” “My happiness is within my control, and I choose joy daily.”  “This is an opportunity to redefine my life on my terms.” “I deserve love, respect, and the chance to live my best life.”  “Change is a doorway to growth and new beginnings.” “I am finding peace within myself, one day at a time.” Just a reminder to try and keep positive thoughts going through your mind daily! xoxo Erin

It’s been a few years since your divorce, and maybe you’ve been on dates, had a few relationships, or perhaps you’ve stayed focused on your journey. Either way, here you are—still single. And while the world might expect you to be on the hunt for a new partner or to settle down again, you’re not convinced. And that’s okay. The truth is, being single after years of divorce is not a sign of failure or something that needs to be "fixed." It’s an opportunity to live on your terms and wait for the right person if and when they come along. Here’s why you should never settle for less than you deserve, even if you’ve been single for a long time. 1. You’ve Come Too Far to Settle Now Post-divorce, you’ve likely spent a lot of time healing, rediscovering yourself, and building a new life. You’ve navigated the emotional rollercoaster, learned what you want, and, more importantly, what you don’t  want in a partner. After all that growth, settling for someone who doesn’t add value to your life would be a disservice to yourself. You’ve come too far to go back to anything less than fulfilling. 2. Your Happiness Is Not Dependent on a Relationship One of the most empowering lessons from years of being single is that your happiness is not tied to having a partner. You’ve built a life you love, with or without a significant other. Settling for a relationship out of societal pressure or loneliness can disrupt the peace and joy you’ve worked so hard to cultivate. True happiness comes from within, and a partner should complement that—not be the source of it. 3. It’s Better to Be Single Than to Be in the Wrong Relationship Many enter relationships because they fear being alone or feel that time is running out. But being single is infinitely better than being stuck in a relationship without joy or fulfillment. Settling for a partner who isn’t aligned with your values, goals, or emotional needs can leave you feeling lonelier than being single ever would. Don’t sacrifice your peace for companionship. 4. You Know What You Want—and What You Don’t By now, you’ve had enough time to reflect on what truly matters to you in a partner. You know the non-negotiables, the red flags, and the qualities you need in a healthy, lasting relationship. Settling for less just because you feel pressure to be in a relationship isn’t worth it. Trust that your clarity on what you want will lead you to the right person when the time is right. 5. Quality Over Quantity Matters In relationships, it’s always about quality over quantity. You could be with someone for years and not have a meaningful connection, or you could be single for a long time and then meet someone who truly understands and complements you. Don’t rush or settle for a “good enough” relationship to avoid being alone. Wait for the person who makes you feel alive, seen, and supported. The right connection is worth the wait. 6. You Are Enough, Just As You Are Society often conveys that being single means something is missing from your life, especially for a long time. But the truth is, you are complete just as you are. You don’t need a partner to validate your worth, and you certainly don’t need to settle to fit society’s expectations. Your journey is yours, and there’s no timeline or rulebook you have to follow. Celebrate your independence and the rich, whole life you’ve created on your terms. 7. Settling Will Only Lead to Regret The consequences of settling often reveal themselves over time. You may find yourself unhappy, feeling trapped, or questioning why you compromised on what you truly wanted. Relationships are hard work, even when suitable, so imagine how difficult it would be if the foundation weren’t solid. Save yourself from the regret of settling by staying true to your standards and waiting for a relationship that genuinely aligns with who you are. 8. Love Should Elevate, Not Weigh You Down A healthy, loving relationship should elevate you—it should add joy, support, and a sense of partnership to your life. If a relationship feels like a compromise, an obligation, or a burden, it’s not the one for you. Don’t settle for something that drains your energy or diminishes your sense of self. Love should lift you higher, not weigh you down. Don’t Settle—You Deserve More Being single for years after divorce doesn’t mean you’ve “missed out” or that you need to settle for the next available person. It means you’ve had time to learn, grow, and build a life that reflects your true self. And because of that, you know your worth. Don’t compromise that by settling for someone who doesn’t meet your standards or align with your goals. Remember, you are worthy of a deep, fulfilling, and true love. It’s okay to be patient, to stay single, and to continue investing in yourself. You'll know when the right person comes along, and it will be worth every moment of the wait. Until then, live your life fully, love yourself deeply, and never settle for anything less than you deserve. Again, we have heard of people filling time with hook-ups, but when it comes to the real thing—we beg you—DO NOT SETTLE!!

Society often paints a picture of a life in which love and companionship are the ultimate goals. While relationships can be beautiful, what happens if you’re single forever? The idea can feel daunting to some, but it might be a life filled with incredible freedom and fulfillment for others. Here are a few ways to rethink what it means to be single forever: 1. A Life of Independence One of the most liberating aspects of remaining single is building a life on your own terms. Whether it’s pursuing career ambitions, traveling, or creating a lifestyle that suits you, independence is empowering. You get to decide where you live, how you spend your time, and what goals you pursue without compromising. Many people in relationships must consider their partner’s desires and needs, but if you’re single, every decision can be based solely on what you want. That’s an exciting kind of freedom that can open doors to experiences and self-discovery. 2. Deep and Meaningful Friendships Romantic relationships are often seen as the pinnacle of connection, but friendships are just as meaningful—and sometimes even more enduring. Being single can give you the time and space to build lasting friendships with people who understand and support you. These friendships can become your chosen family, offering love and companionship as valuable as a romantic partner’s. When you’re not focused on finding “the one,” you can invest in relationships that offer a different kind of fulfillment—one rooted in trust, shared experiences, and genuine connection. 3. Redefining Love Love doesn’t have to mean romantic love. Self-love, love for your passions, love for your community—equally essential forms of affection that can enrich your life in powerful ways. Remaining single allows you to explore these avenues of love more fully, without fitting into societal norms about what love “should” look like. Being “alone” is often misinterpreted as “loneliness.” However, solitude can be a beautiful space to learn to love yourself and discover what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. 4. Financial Freedom One of the benefits of being single is that you are in complete control of your finances. There’s no need to negotiate budgets or save for shared expenses; instead, you can spend your money however you see fit. Want to buy a plane ticket to Bali tomorrow? Go for it! Want to spend an entire year saving for that dream house or a passion project? You have the power to make those decisions independently. Financial freedom, combined with independence, can allow you to pursue experiences and dreams that may have otherwise been neglected in a relationship. 5. Expanding Your Definition of Success Milestones like marriage, children, and a white-picket-fence lifestyle for a long time have measured success. But being single forever means expanding your idea of what success looks like. You can focus on personal growth, professional accomplishments, or creating a legacy through work, art, or causes you care about. Singlehood allows you to redefine success on your terms. For some, that might mean starting a business; for others, it could mean dedicating themselves to a cause they’re passionate about. Whatever the case, it’s an opportunity to create a life that reflects who you truly are. 6. Freedom to Explore Passions When you’re single, your passions can take center stage. Whether it’s a hobby, a career, or a creative project, you can fully immerse yourself in what you love without compromising with a partner. Your time and energy are yours to invest as you see fit, allowing you to dive deeply into your interests and become an expert in areas you’re passionate about. For many, this is one of the most fulfilling aspects of a single life—a chance to live a prosperous, creative, and passionate existence. 7. Potential for Growth Being single forever doesn’t mean stagnation. It can be a path to tremendous personal growth. Without the influence of a partner, you have the opportunity to fully understand yourself—your desires, your fears, your strengths, and your weaknesses. It’s a chance to evolve, challenge yourself, and become the best version of yourself. You may find that the person you become in your single years is someone you’re incredibly proud of—independent, self-sufficient, and deeply aware of their worth. Being Single is an Option, Not a Failure The fear of being single forever is often rooted in societal pressures and outdated notions of fulfillment. But singlehood can be a life filled with love, growth, and adventure. It’s a path that can lead to self-discovery, financial independence, and the freedom to live exactly as you choose. Being single forever doesn’t mean being alone. It’s another version of a fulfilling, connected, and beautiful life. The most important relationship you’ll ever have is the one with yourself, and that’s a relationship worth investing in—no matter what your romantic status might be. Be Brave, It will all work out the way it is supposed to!

As you approach months 10, 11, and 12, you may notice a shift in how you experience life post-divorce. The early stages of separation are often filled with shock, grief, and decisions that feel overwhelming. By the time you reach the one-year mark, you may find yourself in a place of reflection, healing, and renewal. Here’s a look at what these later months in your divorce journey might feel like and how to embrace this stage with strength. Month 10: Rediscovery and Redefinition By the 10th month, your life may start to feel more familiar, but not without its challenges. This period often involves rediscovering both yourself and your new reality. Acceptance vs. Resistance:  At this stage, you may find yourself closer to accepting the end of the marriage. While anger and sadness might still surface, they tend to be less overwhelming. If you’re still struggling with acceptance, emotional setbacks may occur. It’s essential to allow yourself the space to feel these emotions as part of the healing process. Rebuilding Identity:  A key focus during this time is rediscovering who you are outside of the marriage. This is a powerful phase of self-exploration, where you can reconnect with interests and passions that may have been set aside. Establishing Boundaries:  Relationships with your ex-spouse, co-workers, friends, and family require new boundaries. By now, you’ve likely learned which connections uplift you and which may require distance. Setting healthy, firm boundaries is essential for your well-being. Month 11: Reflection and Recalibration The 11th month marks a pivotal time to assess your emotional, mental, and physical well-being. With almost a year behind you, you can look back, acknowledge the growth, and recalibrate your mindset for the future. Emotional Inventory:  This is an excellent time to check in with yourself emotionally. How do you feel about your progress? Do you still carry unresolved grief or resentment? Acknowledging lingering pain can help you move forward with a clearer sense of purpose. Therapy or journaling may be beneficial during this stage, allowing you to process emotions that may have been pushed aside earlier in the divorce. Physical and Mental Health:  Divorce can affect your body and mind. Month 11 is a great time to reflect on how you care for yourself physically. Are you eating well, exercising, or getting enough sleep? It may also be helpful to assess whether your mental health has improved or if further support is needed. If not addressed, burnout or emotional exhaustion can creep in, so this is a crucial period to practice self-care. Financial Stability:  At this stage, you’re likely starting to find a rhythm with your finances post-divorce. This is a great time to take a fresh look at your financial situation, create or update your budget, and consider long-term goals. Whether you're working on rebuilding your credit, adjusting to a single income, or setting up future investments, this is a time to fine-tune your financial strategies. Month 12: Renewal and New Beginnings Reaching the 12th month is a significant milestone. It’s the end of the first year, and with it comes the opportunity for a sense of renewal and the prospect of fresh beginnings. Embracing Change:  By now, much of the shock and raw emotion of divorce may have faded, giving way to a clearer perspective on your new life. The 12th month is a chance to fully embrace the changes of the divorce and begin shaping your future with intention. You might start to feel more hopeful and energized as you look ahead. Redefining Relationships:  Your personal relationships may look entirely different after a year. You may have developed deeper connections with those who have supported you while letting go of relationships that no longer serve you. Month 12 is a time to reflect on your support system and focus on nurturing the connections that bring you peace and positivity. Setting New Goals:  As you close out this chapter, setting new personal or professional goals can provide a sense of direction. Whether it’s a career move, a new hobby, or personal growth, the 12th month symbolizes a fresh start. This is the perfect moment to ask yourself what you want the next year to look like and take steps to turn those desires into reality. Celebrating Your Strength:  Divorce is one of life’s most challenging transitions, and by reaching month 12, you’ve proven your resilience. Celebrate the strength it took to get here. This might include acknowledging the small victories, the healing moments, and the times you thought you wouldn’t make it but did. The road ahead after the first year post-divorce is filled with opportunities for reflection, healing, and growth. While the divorce journey is deeply personal, and everyone experiences it differently, months 10, 11, and 12 offer a space to redefine yourself, recalibrate your goals, and embrace the new beginnings ahead. As you close the chapter on your first year, remember that healing is not linear, and it’s okay if some days are still hard. The important thing is that you’re moving forward, piece by piece, creating a life that’s more aligned with who you are becoming. Take the lessons learned from these months, trust your inner strength, and continue building the future that you deserve. You can do this! Erin

As you approach the second half of the first year post-divorce, the fog of emotional chaos may vanish. By months 7, 8, and 9, you’ve likely experienced significant personal growth, gained a deeper understanding of yourself, and begun to explore new opportunities. While healing is ongoing, this period often marks a time of rediscovery, confidence-building, and renewed energy to embrace the future. Here’s a closer look at what these months might bring and tips to help you thrive during this transformative phase. Month 7: Rediscovering Yourself Seven months post-divorce can feel like a turning point. By now, you may have processed much of the initial grief and confusion and have settled into your new reality. As you become more comfortable with your independence, a sense of curiosity about who you are outside the marriage begins to surface. This is a time for self-exploration and growth. What You Might Feel: Increased clarity:  You may feel more transparent about who you are, what you want, and what no longer serves you. The emotional fog of the early months has dissipated, leaving room for reflection and introspection. Desire for personal development:  This could be a time to dive into hobbies or interests that were put on the back burner during your marriage. It’s also a great period for setting new personal goals. Occasional setbacks:  While there’s growth, you might still experience moments of sadness or lingering pain. This is normal, and it’s essential to be gentle with yourself. How to Cope: Reinvest in yourself:  Whether it’s starting a new fitness routine, taking a class, or finally picking up that book you’ve been meaning to read, make time for activities that bring you joy. Rebuild your self-esteem:  Focus on accomplishments and small wins to reinforce your confidence. Journaling or practicing gratitude can help remind you of your progress. Seek inspiration:  Explore new places, meet new people, or engage in creative activities. Anything that sparks inspiration can help you rediscover your passions and purpose. Month 8: Building New Relationships By the eighth month, many people start to feel ready to reconnect socially or romantically. The emotional intensity of the first six months has likely softened, and now you may feel more open to building new connections, whether through friendships or dating. What You Might Feel: Curiosity about dating:  If you’re interested in romantic relationships, this might be when you start dipping your toes into the dating world. Even if you’re not ready for a serious commitment, casual dating can help you understand what you want in a future partner. Social reconnection:  After months of focusing on healing, you may feel more ready to expand your social circle. Reaching out to old friends or forming new connections can be deeply rewarding. Apprehension:  The idea of dating again or putting yourself out there socially can raise insecurities or fears. It’s okay to take it slow and follow your timeline. How to Cope: Take it one step at a time:  Whether dating or reconnecting with friends, go at a comfortable pace. There’s no rush, and it’s important to honor your emotional needs. Set healthy boundaries:  Defining your limits is essential as you re-enter the dating or social scene. Know what you’re looking for and what you’re not willing to compromise on. Stay open to possibilities:  Not every connection will be perfect, and that’s okay. Stay open-minded about what relationships or friendships may bring, and trust that the right people will come into your life at the right time. Month 9: Renewed Focus and Confidence At nine months post-divorce, you’ve likely experienced significant healing and growth. This period often brings a sense of confidence, self-assurance, and a renewed focus on building the life you want. You’re no longer just “surviving” post-divorce—you’re starting to thrive. What You Might Feel: Stronger sense of self:  You’ve come a long way since the early months, and you likely feel more in tune with your values, desires, and boundaries. Focus on the future:  As you’ve processed the past, your focus naturally shifts toward what’s next. You might find yourself setting new career goals and financial plans or considering more significant life changes like moving or starting a new project. Empowerment:  Many people feel more empowered and capable during this phase. You’ve weathered the storm and are now ready to retake control of your life. How to Cope: Set long-term goals:  Now that you have a stronger sense of direction, start setting long-term goals that align with the future you envision. Whether it’s career advancement, personal development, or even a new relationship, having goals can provide motivation and focus. Embrace your independence:  Celebrate your newfound independence. Whether it’s traveling solo, picking up a challenging hobby, or making decisions without second-guessing, now is the time to embrace who you are as an individual fully. Reflect on your journey:  Consider how far you’ve come. Revisit journals or notes from the early months to remind yourself of your progress. Acknowledge your growth and credit yourself for your resilience. Months 7, 8, and 9 post-divorce are a time of renewal, confidence-building, and stepping into your own. You’re likely feeling more comfortable in your independence, more open to new relationships and experiences, and more focused on the future. This is a period of tremendous personal growth, where you begin to fully reclaim your life and chart a path forward on your terms. While challenges may still arise, and the healing journey is far from linear, you’ve built the emotional strength and resilience to face them head-on. As you move through this phase, stay open to possibilities, continue prioritizing self-care, and trust that the best is yet to come. Your post-divorce journey isn’t just about survival—it’s about rediscovering yourself, building a life you love, and stepping into your true potential. Keep going; the road ahead is filled with new beginnings. You got this, Erin

Ninety days after a divorce can feel like an eternity and a beginning. This period is often about laying the groundwork for the new chapters ahead and finding stability in a changed personal landscape. Emotional Healing and Growth Healing is not linear. The emotional aftermath of a divorce can continue to surface unexpectedly. It’s essential to acknowledge these feelings rather than suppress them. Many find solace in therapy or through spiritual practices like meditation, which can help in processing grief and rediscovery of self-worth and happiness. Social Reconnections Reconnecting socially can be both daunting and exhilarating. This might be the perfect time to rekindle old friendships or explore new social circles. Community activities or online groups can also offer a sense of belonging and support. New Responsibilities and Independence Handling newfound responsibilities alone can be challenging but also empowering. Whether managing finances solo or tackling household duties, each task accomplished can boost your confidence and sense of independence. Exploring New Interests and Careers With a significant life change comes the opportunity to pursue passions or career paths that might have been on hold. It’s an excellent time to consider further education, a career change, or starting a new business. Such pursuits can redirect energy positively and contribute to personal growth. Planning Long-Term Setting long-term goals is crucial for looking ahead. Whether these goals are financial, career-oriented, or personal, having a plan helps provide direction and motivation. Consider where you want to be in the next five, ten, or even twenty years, and start laying the foundations to get there. The first 90 days after a divorce are a critical time of transition and transformation. While challenging, they offer an unparalleled opportunity for self-reflection, growth, and new beginnings. Focusing on personal development, support systems, and future aspirations can help one navigate this period with resilience and hope.

The day has finally arrived - your kids have packed up their belongings and headed off to college. While this is an exciting time for them, it can leave many parents, single or not, feeling a range of emotions, including sadness and even depression. The empty nest syndrome is a genuine phenomenon that can be difficult to navigate. Here are a few tips on how to cope with depression after your kids leave for college: 1. Acknowledge Your Feelings It's important to allow yourself to feel sad and to acknowledge that it is normal to grieve this major life change. Don't try to suppress your emotions - instead, talk to a trusted friend or therapist about what you're going through. 2. Stay Connected Even though your kids have left for college, it's important to stay connected with them. Schedule regular phone or video calls, send care packages, and plan visits to see them on campus. Knowing that you still have a strong relationship with your children can help alleviate feelings of loneliness. 3. Focus on Yourself Now that your children are off to college, you can focus on yourself and your needs. Take up a new hobby, join a club or group, or start a new exercise routine. Investing time in yourself can help boost your mood and give you a sense of purpose. 4. Seek Support Don't be afraid to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist. Joining a support group for parents experiencing the empty nest syndrome can also be helpful, as you can connect with others going through a similar experience. 5. Set Goals Setting goals and creating a new routine can help you adjust to life after your kids leave for college. List things you've always wanted to do but never had the time for. Whether traveling, learning a new skill, or volunteering, having goals to work towards can provide a sense of direction and purpose. 6. Practice Self-Care Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally is crucial during this time. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and engage in activities that bring you joy. Don't hesitate to pamper yourself with a spa day, a hike in nature, or a good book - self-care is essential for maintaining your mental health. Remember, it's normal to feel sad and even experience depression when your kids leave for college. Give yourself time to adjust to this new chapter in your life, and don't hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. With time and self-care, you can navigate through this transition period and become stronger on the other side. Feeling lost is normal from what I hear, and in my case, when twins left, two at once, it has been more difficult than I imagined. I miss them very much; however, I am proud of them and know they are happy and thriving. My heart is with you if you are going through this part of life. Erin How are you coping? What did you do after your kids left for college? What new activities did you get into? And if you have kids still in the nest here is how to help: Focusing on Kids at Home While it's natural to feel the impact of your children leaving for college, it's essential to also focus on your kids who are still at home. Here are a few strategies to help maintain a positive relationship and support their needs: 1. Quality Time Spend quality time with your kids who are still at home. Plan activities, outings, or family dinners to stay connected and strengthen your relationship with them. 2. Open Communication Encourage open and honest communication with your kids at home. Let them know you can talk and listen to their thoughts and feelings about their siblings leaving for college. 3. Support Their Goals Take an interest in your kids' activities and goals. Whether they are involved in sports, clubs, or academics, please show your support and encouragement for their endeavors. 4. C reate New Memories Use this time to create new memories and experiences with your kids at home. This can include taking family trips, starting a new tradition, or simply spending time together doing activities they enjoy. By balancing the coping strategies for yourself and focusing on the kids still at home, you can navigate this transition period with greater resilience and understanding. With time and support, you can embrace this new chapter in your life and continue to nurture meaningful connections with your children, both near and far.

Flirting at any age can be fun and exciting! Here are some quick tips for flirting at an older age: 1.    Confidence is Key: Embrace your age and experience and let your confidence shine through. Confidence is attractive at any age. 2.    Smile and Make Eye Contact: A genuine smile and eye contact can go a long way in flirting. It shows that you are approachable and friendly. 3.    Compliment Sincerely: Pay compliments to the person you are flirting with, but make sure they are sincere and genuine. 4.    Engage in Conversation: Ask questions and show genuine interest in the other person. Listen actively and respond thoughtfully. 5.    Use Humor: A good sense of humor can help break the ice and make flirting more enjoyable for both parties. 6.    Find Common Interests: Look for common interests or topics to bond over. This can help create a deeper connection with the person you are flirting with. 7.    Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of the other person's comfort level and boundaries. Respect their cues and signals. 8.    Show Your Personality: Let your unique personality shine. Sharing your passions and interests can be very attractive to others. 9.    Dress with Confidence: Wear clothes that make you feel good about yourself. Feeling confident in your appearance can boost your flirting game. 10.  Use Body Language:  Pay attention to your body language. Open, friendly gestures such as leaning in slightly and maintaining an open posture can signal your interest. 11.  Be Playful:  Don't be afraid to be playful and tease in a good-natured way. It can add a sense of fun and lightness to the conversation. 12.  Take Rejection Gracefully: Not everyone will respond to your flirtations, and that's okay. If someone is not interested, graciously accept their response and move on. The key to successful flirting is to be genuine and respectful and to have fun with the interaction. Good luck, and remember to laugh at yourself as well. Erin

Setting relationships and setting standards is crucial for one's happiness and emotional well-being. As we journey through different relationships, we often learn valuable lessons, shaping our future expectations. In this blog, we will explore the significance of relationship standards, highlighting the importance of learning from past experiences and applying that wisdom to future connections. Learning from Past Relationships : One of the most powerful ways to define our relationship standards is through self-reflection. By analyzing our previous relationships, we can identify patterns and recognize areas where we may have compromised our needs and values. This self-awareness allows us to establish higher standards based on our newfound knowledge and personal growth. Setting Boundaries : Clear boundaries are essential for a healthy and thriving relationship. Boundaries help define what is acceptable and what is not, ensuring that both partners feel respected and valued. Reflecting on past experiences enables us to identify the situations or behaviors that made us uncomfortable or unhappy. With this knowledge, we can communicate our boundaries effectively, creating a more fulfilling and mutually satisfying relationship. Elevating Expectations : Our relationship expectations often evolve as we mature personally and emotionally. When we've been through less fulfilling or toxic relationships, we understand the importance of demanding more from our partners regarding communication, honesty, and emotional support. Valuing ourselves and what we bring to the partnership allows us to seek a connection that aligns with our desires. By having higher standards, we create space for relationships that enhance our lives and bring real fulfillment. Recognizing Red Flags : Having experienced challenging relationships, we have become more adept at spotting red flags. These warning signs may include controlling behavior, lack of respect, or a failure to prioritize mutual growth. By acknowledging these red flags early on, we can avoid getting involved in potentially harmful or unfulfilling relationships. Our past experiences serve as valuable lessons to help us navigate the treacherous path of unhealthy connections. Self-Love and Self-Care : Relationship standards are about expectations for our partners and the role we play in the relationship. Having been there and done that, we know the importance of practicing self-love and self-care. We understand that our happiness and well-being shouldn't depend solely on our partner but should come from within ourselves. By prioritizing self-care, we become more confident and resilient individuals, which sets the stage for healthier and more satisfying relationships. The journey of relationships is one of growth, learning, and evolution. Having been through past relationships, we gain invaluable insights that allow us to set higher standards for future connections. By reflecting on our past experiences, setting clear boundaries, recognizing red flags, and practicing self-love, we position ourselves for relationships that bring joy, fulfillment, and mutual growth. Remember, you must do what is best for you! xoxo Erin

Being single is a time of unparalleled freedom and self-exploration. It's a unique chapter in your life where you can focus on personal growth and indulge in activities that bring joy and fulfillment. If you're looking for new things to do when you're single, consider the following suggestions to make the most of this empowering phase. 1. Explore a New Hobby Use this time to explore a new hobby that has always intrigued you. Whether it's painting, playing a musical instrument, gardening, or cooking, engaging in a hobby can be a deeply fulfilling and enriching experience. It's an opportunity to discover hidden talents and passions that you might not have been aware of, and it's a journey filled with joy and inspiration. 2. Travel Solo Traveling alone can be an enriching experience. It lets you set your itinerary, explore at your own pace, and meet new people. Whether it's a weekend getaway to a nearby town or a solo backpacking trip across a foreign country, the sense of independence and adventure that comes with solo travel is unparalleled. 3. Volunteer Volunteering for a cause you care about helps others and provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether working at a local animal shelter, participating in environmental clean-up efforts, or mentoring underprivileged youth, giving back to the community can be a gratifying experience and a great way to meet like-minded individuals. 4. Take Classes Enrolling in classes or workshops can be an excellent way to expand your knowledge and skills while meeting new people. Whether it's a cooking class, dance lessons, language courses, or educational seminars, the experience of learning something new can be intellectually stimulating and socially enriching. 5. Focus on Fitness and Wellness Use this time to prioritize your health and well-being. Try different fitness activities such as yoga, hiking, cycling, or dancing. Engaging in regular exercise not only improves physical health but also boosts mood and self-confidence. Exploring mindfulness practices like meditation and journaling can also contribute to emotional well-being and self-discovery. 6. Attend Meetup Events Explore local meetup groups or social events catered to your interests. Whether it's a book club, hiking group, or networking event, attending these gatherings can lead to new friendships and connections, enriching your social life and providing opportunities for personal growth. 7. Self-Reflection and Goal Setting Take the time to engage in self-reflection and set personal goals for yourself. Use this period of singleness to focus on personal development, define your aspirations, and work towards achieving them. Setting goals related to career, relationships, personal growth, and adventure can bring a sense of purpose and direction to your life. Taking joy in this stage of life by exploring new hobbies, traveling solo, volunteering, learning, focusing on wellness, and meeting new people can lead to a fulfilling and transformative chapter in your life. Instead of viewing being single as a limitation, see it as a time of endless possibilities and self-discovery. Explore new ways to keep yourself busy!

Dating apps have become a popular way to meet potential partners and connect with new people especially after divorce. While these platforms offer convenience and accessibility, they also come with unique challenges and concerns related to social safety. It's essential for users to prioritize their safety and well-being while engaging with dating apps to ensure a positive and secure experience. Here are some tips for navigating social safety when using dating apps: 1. Research and Choose Reputable Apps Before diving into the world of online dating, take the time to research and choose reputable dating apps that prioritize user safety and security. Look for platforms that have robust privacy settings, verification processes, and policies against harassment and inappropriate behavior. 2. Protect Your Personal Information When creating a dating app profile, be mindful of the information you share. Avoid including sensitive details such as your home address, workplace, or personal contact information. Limit the amount of personal information you disclose until you feel comfortable and have established trust with a potential match. DO NOT go offline ie other apps until you talk through the direct messages first. Many fake profiles will immediately ask about "WhatsApp" or "Give me your number" within the first conversation - STEER CLEAR! 3. Trust Your Instincts Listen to your gut feelings and instincts when interacting with individuals on dating apps. If something feels off or makes you uncomfortable, trust your intuition and take necessary precautions. It's essential to prioritize your safety and well-being above all else. 4. Use Caution When Meeting in Person When arranging to meet someone in person for the first time, prioritize safety by choosing a public place and informing a friend or family member about your plans. Consider using a buddy system or sharing your location with a trusted contact to ensure accountability and support. Share your location with friends and family. 5. Communicate Boundaries and Expectations Establish clear boundaries and expectations with your matches regarding communication, physical boundaries, and respect. Be assertive in communicating your preferences and needs, and do not hesitate to block or report individuals who violate your boundaries or make you feel unsafe. 6. Report Suspicious Behavior If you encounter any suspicious or concerning behavior on a dating app, report it to the platform's support team immediately. Most dating apps have mechanisms in place to address safety issues and protect users from harassment, fraud, or other harmful activities. 7. Educate Yourself About Online Safety Stay informed about online safety best practices and equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to navigate dating apps responsibly. Take advantage of resources, articles, and guides that offer tips for online dating safety and empower you to make informed decisions. 8. Prioritize Self-Care and Well-Being Lastly, prioritize self-care and well-being throughout your dating app journey. Take breaks when needed, set boundaries for your online interactions, and prioritize your mental and emotional health above all else. By following these tips and strategies, you can enhance your social safety and enjoy a positive and secure experience while using dating apps. Remember that your safety and well-being are paramount, and it's essential to take proactive measures to protect yourself and create meaningful connections in the digital dating realm. Be vigilant, communicate openly, and trust your instincts to navigate the world of dating apps safely and responsibly. Please stay safe, Erin