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As we are in peak spending season for the Holidays, one crucial factor that often gets overlooked amidst the emotional turmoil is the division of debts and divorce. We are deeply diving into understanding this issue's complexity, which usually gets emotionally charged. Let’s go: Understand Your Debts: Before initiating the divorce process, it is vital to have a clear understanding of your debts. Gather all the necessary financial documents, including loan statements, credit card bills, and any other debts you may have incurred. This comprehensive overview will help ensure all debts are accounted for and accurately divided or allocated. Types of Debts: When it comes to dividing debts during divorce, it is essential to differentiate between two types of debts: 1. Marital Debts: These are debts accumulated during the marriage for joint expenses, such as mortgages, car loans, and credit cards used for household purchases. In most cases, marital debts are considered joint liabilities and are subject to division during divorce proceedings. 2. Separate Debts: These are debts incurred by either spouse before the marriage or after the separation. Separate debts typically remain the responsibility of the spouse who incurred them, although exceptions may occur depending on state laws and circumstances. Creating a Debt Repayment Plan To address the division of debts, you have several options: 1. Paying Off Debts Jointly: If circumstances permit, you and your spouse may pay off the joint debts before finalizing the divorce. This approach helps ensure a clean financial slate for both parties and minimizes conflicts regarding ongoing debt management. 2. Transferring Debts: In some cases, spouses may agree to transfer debts to someone more financially capable or better positioned to manage the debt. It's essential to consult with a divorce attorney or financial advisor to evaluate the long-term financial implications before making any decisions. 3. Selling Assets: Selling joint assets, such as a home or a car, can help generate funds to pay off joint debts. After settling the debts, the remaining proceeds can be divided per the divorce agreement. 4. Seeking Professional Help: In complex cases involving multiple debts and significant financial assets, it may be beneficial to engage the services of professionals, such as divorce mediators, financial advisors, or even forensic accountants. These experts can help assess the financial situation objectively and provide guidance on debt division. Protecting Yourself Taking proactive steps to protect yourself during the divorce process is crucial. Consider the following: 1. Cancel Joint Credit Cards: Closing joint credit cards or converting them to individual accounts can help prevent additional debt from being accrued and ensure that each spouse remains responsible for their expenses. 2. Monitor Your Credit Score: Monitor your credit report regularly to ensure that only additional debts are incurred in your name with your knowledge. Identity theft and fraudulent activities are not uncommon during the divorce process. 3. Modify Joint Loans: If possible, modify existing joint loans, such as mortgages or car loans, by refinancing in one person's name. This can alleviate the burden of sharing a debt with an ex-spouse. Handling debt during a divorce can be a complex and emotionally charged process. As you understand the different types of debts, create a repayment plan, and take steps to protect yourself, you can navigate the complexities of debt during divorce and work towards securing your financial future. There are several apps out there that can also help you create a budget for financial success. Remember, all this is hard but can be a temporary stressor. Take it day by day. Erin Time to Dish: Do you know what time of debt you have? Do you have joint accounts? Have you created a new account? Do you know the numbers for all your accounts? Have you created a budget for now? If not, you should; this will help you re-establish your finances once your divorce ends.

We get a lot of questions about dating after divorce, like How do I do this? I have not dated in over 20+ years or more.  We are here to tell you that you can do this, and here are a few tips to navigate dating after divorce. 1.   Take Time to Heal: Before diving into the dating scene, it's crucial to allow yourself time to heal from the emotional toll of your divorce. Take this period to rediscover yourself, explore your interests, and focus on self-care. Healing will give you a solid foundation to build healthy new relationships. 2.   Reflect on Past Relationships: Use this time to reflect on your past marriage and identify any patterns or behaviors contributing to its downfall. Understanding your role in the relationship's demise will help you enter future relationships with a refreshed perspective and enable you to make better choices. 3.   Define Your Priorities and Ideal Partner: Now is the perfect time to evaluate your priorities and goals for the future. What are your deal-breakers? What qualities are you looking for in a partner? By being clear about your needs and wants, you can establish healthier boundaries and reduce the likelihood of entering a dysfunctional relationship. 4.   Connect with Yourself: Rediscovering who you are and what brings you joy is essential before returning to the dating scene. Pursue hobbies, meet new people, and take the time to date yourself. By fostering a healthy relationship with yourself first, you'll be better equipped to form fulfilling connections with others. 5.   Slow your roll: Dating can feel overwhelming, but taking time is essential. Take things slowly, enjoy the process, and don't put undue pressure on yourself to find someone immediately. Building a solid foundation for a new relationship takes time. Trust your instincts and let relationships develop at a comfortable pace. 6.   Maintain Realistic Expectations: Realize that dating after divorce might differ from what you remember. People change, and so does the dating landscape. It's essential to manage your expectations, be patient, and understand that finding a compatible partner may take time. Avoid comparing new relationships to your past ones, as this can hinder your ability to connect with someone new truly. Dating after a divorce can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. You WILL make mistakes, and you will learn. You may date a lot of frogs to find your prince () – that is ok. You can find happiness by– allowing yourself time to heal, reflecting on past relationships, defining your priorities, connecting with yourself, taking it slow, and maintaining realistic expectations. Remember to stay true to yourself, have fun, and believe in the possibility of a fresh start. Have fun, and do not overthink it! Erin Time To Dish: ·      Have you entered the dating world yet? ·      If not, is it because you are scared or you are unsure? ·      How do you feel about joining the new world of dating? ·      Remember you are dating for different reasons later in life – be true to yourself – how will you do this?

Divorcee Dish definitely covers some tough topics throughout the year. This time, we are giving you a reason to laugh. In this blog post, we'll be sharing some lighthearted divorce jokes that might bring a smile to your face during this challenging time. Remember, laughter is a powerful tool for healing, and finding humor in life's ups and downs can help us navigate the most difficult situations. So, grab your favorite beverage and get ready for some divorce humor! The Legal Maze: Why did the divorced couple go to the amusement park? They heard they were experts at navigating through rollercoasters of emotions and endless loops of paperwork! The Ex Files: Why is divorce like an algebraic equation? Because it involves 'X' taking everything you own and 'Y' leaving without any explanation! DIY Counseling: Why did the divorced couple become painters? They thought joining an art class would help them work out their issues, but unfortunately, all their communication turned into abstract arguments! The Wedding Crashers: Did you hear about the divorce party where exes were encouraged to dress as their former partners? It was a night filled with identity confusion and plenty of answering to the wrong names! The Therapy Dog: What do you call a canine therapist for divorcing couples? A 'Rufferee'! These furry mediators always have their tails wagging during the sessions! The Garage Sale Warriors: A couple decided to have a joint garage sale after their divorce. It was a heartwarming event where they sold each other's stuff while sharing hilarious anecdotes about how those items drove them crazy during the marriage! The Divorce Diet: Why did the divorcee open a bakery? Because they wanted to knead their way out of the emotional baggage and donut think about their ex anymore! The Happy Ending: What did the ex-spouse say to the lawyer? "Thanks for helping me get my life back on track. As a token of appreciation, I hope you never have to negotiate a divorce settlement with a circus clown!" The Comic Relief: Why did the divorced comedian have such a successful show? Because they knew how to turn their pain into punchlines and their heartache into humor! The Wise Words: What's a piece of advice you'll find in every divorcee's journal? "When life gives you lemons, squeeze them into a divorce party punch and toast to new beginnings!" Laughter is a powerful medicine, even during the challenging divorce process. These jokes are meant to bring a moment of fun and remind you that you're not alone in this rollercoaster ride. Divorce may be tough, but finding humor along the way can help heal the wounds and embrace a brighter future. Always approach the topic with sensitivity, as everyone's journey is unique. Stay strong, keep laughing, and let the Divorce Diaries be your comedic companion on this path to rediscovering happiness. Cheers! Erin Have a joke, please share!

Feelings of joy and cheer often accompany the holiday season, but for single individuals, it can also bring about a mix of emotions. Emphasizing romantic relationships and togetherness can sometimes leave singles feeling isolated or inadequate. However, it is essential to prioritize your mental health during this time and focus on self-care and personal growth. Explore helpful strategies and survival tips to ensure a positive and fulfilling holiday season, even without a romantic partner. Limit Social Media Comparison: STOP! Social media can be addicting; Social media often amplifies loneliness and inadequacy, particularly during the holiday season. Remember that people often showcase the highlights of their lives online, creating an unrealistic portrayal of reality. Limit your exposure to social media and focus on cultivating your happiness rather than comparing yourself to others. Embrace Self-Love Being single during the holidays is an opportunity to increase self-love and acceptance. Take time to appreciate your company, engage in activities that bring you joy, and pamper yourself. Practice self-care, whether through indulging in a relaxing bath, treating yourself to a spa day, or simply engaging in activities that make you happy. Cultivate Meaningful Connections While romantic relationships may be emphasized during this time, it doesn't mean you can't connect with others. Strengthen your relationships with friends and family and seek support from loved ones. Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people can significantly improve your mental well-being. Focus on Personal Growth: Use this time to focus on personal growth and self-improvement. Engage in activities that challenge you intellectually or creatively, such as taking up a new hobby or pursuing a passion project. Cultivating personal development will help you build confidence, find purpose, and create a sense of fulfillment. Practice Gratitude: During the holiday season, practicing gratitude and appreciating the blessings in your life is essential. Take time each day to reflect on what you are grateful for, whether it's the support of loved ones, good health, or personal achievements. Gratitude helps shift your focus towards the positive aspects of your life, fostering a more positive mindset. Create New Traditions: Just because you are single doesn't mean you can't enjoy the holiday season. Create new traditions that align with your interests and values. Host a party for the guys or your girls only, organize a gift exchange with friends, volunteer for a local charity, or explore new places. Creating unique experiences means bringing the holiday spirit into your life meaningfully. Seek Professional Support if Needed: If you find that your mental health is significantly impacted during the holiday season, don't hesitate to seek professional support. A therapist or counselor can provide guidance and strategies to navigate your emotions and help you build resilience. Remember, it's okay to ask for help when you need it. Being single during the holidays does not have to be a negative experience for your mental health. By embracing self-love, cultivating meaningful connections, focusing on personal growth, practicing gratitude, creating new traditions, limiting social media comparison, and seeking professional support, you can navigate this period with resilience and positivity. Remember, being single is an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery, making the holiday season a time to celebrate yourself and all you have to offer. Cheers to new traditions, Erin

Divorce is a life-altering event that can leave someone feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed. As a friend, being there for them during this challenging time is crucial. Support and understanding can make a world of difference in their healing process. Let us explore some practical ways to be a supportive friend to someone going through a divorce. From active listening to providing practical help and encouraging self-care, we will discover the various ways to lend a helping hand. By following these tips, you can comfort and strengthen your divorced friend as they navigate this new chapter of their life: 1.   Listen: Be there to listen without judgment. Let your friend share their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without imposing your own opinions. 2.   Show empathy: Understand that divorce is a challenging and emotional experience. Try to put yourself in your friend's shoes and be supportive and understanding. 3.   Offer practical help: Divorce can significantly change a person's life. If applicable, offer to help with practical tasks such as finding a new living place, assisting with paperwork, or helping with childcare. 4.   Be available: Let your friends know that you're there for them, whether it's in person, over the phone, or through text. Check in regularly to see how they're doing and offer your support. 5.   Avoid offering unsolicited advice: While it's natural to want to help, it's important to remember that every situation is unique, and your friend may not be ready for advice or suggestions. Instead, focus on actively listening and being supportive. 6.   Encourage self-care: Divorce can affect a person's well-being. Please encourage your friends to care for themselves by engaging in enjoyable activities, seeking professional help, and taking time to heal. 7.   Respect privacy: Your friend may need time and space to process their emotions. Please respect their privacy and boundaries, and don't share their personal information with others unless explicitly given permission. Everyone handles divorce differently, so it's essential to be patient and understanding. Your presence and support can significantly impact your friend's healing process. Thank you for being a friend, Erin Time to Dish: What are some things your friends did for you going through a divorce? What do you need from your friends as your healing continues? How are you feeling about your friend group? Have you met many new people? Or friends since your divorce? Any advice for others?

Supporting a newly divorced friend involves thoughtful and trendy gifts that aid in their healing and personal growth. However, humor and survival-based items can remind them to laugh and enjoy life amidst the severe aspects. Here are 10 hilarious gift ideas for your divorcee to brighten their day: 1.   Freedom-themed gift basket: Assemble a basket filled with humorous items symbolizing freedom and independence. Include a "Just Divorced" t-shirt, a "Breakup Recovery" book, a bottle of champagne to celebrate their new chapter, and a card with uplifting and funny messages. 2.   "Divorced AF" coffee mug: Start their mornings with a smile by gifting them a coffee mug that proudly declares their new status. Add some divorce-themed coffee or tea to complete the gift. 3.   "Divorce Survival Kit": Compile a survival kit containing a stress ball, a bottle of wine, a package of tissues, funny breakup playlists, and a voucher for a relaxing spa day. This kit will provide comfort and relief during challenging moments. 4.   "Ex Box": Please encourage them to let go of the past in a lighthearted way. Prepare a box with items representing their ex, such as a stuffed animal or a photo. Coordinate a mini ritual for saying goodbye to these reminders. 5.   Funny divorce-themed books: Gift them with humorous books like "The Ex-Wife's Guide to Divorce," "Divorce for Dummies,", or "101 Ways to Enjoy Post-Divorce Life." These books will not only offer a good laugh but also provide valuable insights. 6.   "Emergency Divorce Kit": Create a lighthearted kit comprising emergency chocolates, a stress ball shaped like a gavel, a mini divorce-themed journal, and a funny breakup card. This kit will come in handy during stressful times. 7.   "Wrecking Room Experience": Consider gifting them a "Wrecking Room" experience where they can release post-divorce anger in a safe space. 8.   Funny candles: Look for humorous candles on platforms like Etsy. These candles can add a touch of humor to their living space and create a relaxed ambiance. 9.   Customized playlist: See the latest Divorcee Dish playlist. Create a customized playlist of uplifting and humorous songs to boost their spirits and make them smile. 10. Personalized items: Consider customized items like t-shirts, mugs, or keychains incorporating funny, divorce-related slogans or quotes. This way, they can display their sense of humor while embracing their new journey. Remember to think outside the box when selecting gifts for newly divorced friends. Laughter is a potent medicine for healing, and these humorous gifts can go a long way in supporting them during this transitional phase. Consider their personality and sense of humor to select the most appropriate gift. Happy giving! Erin Time to Dish: · What was the best gift you received when you got divorced?· Share your ideas for

Love is a magical force that can bind two souls together. Still, sometimes, relationships run their course, such as when you realize that pivotal moment when you realize that your relationship is over. Although a challenging revelation, it will catalyze your personal growth and self-discovery. You will find out how to embrace the end. Unraveling Connections: Indications of Dissipation In hindsight, you may realize there were subtle hints that your relationship was losing its grip. The deep conversations were replaced with superficial small talk, the intimacy we once shared became infrequent, and the affectionate gestures felt mechanical. These changes gradually unfolded, and it became apparent that the strong bond you once had was fading away. The Aha Moment: The Heartbreaking Epiphany A heavy cloud of unease emerged during an intimate conversation about the future. As you spoke, it became clear that desires, dreams, and aspirations were no longer aligned. The realization struck like lightning – your paths had diverged, and your relationship was no longer fulfilling. This gut-wrenching moment marked the turning point as you finally saw it was time to let go. Turbulent Emotions: Grief and Reflection Accepting the end of a meaningful relationship is never easy. Emotions like sadness, confusion, and grief will wash over you, threatening to overwhelm your spirit. Yet, amid the storm, you must navigate a path of self-reflection. In my experience, I questioned myself, examined our past, and sought answers to understand where we had lost our way. In this process, I found strength and resilience, realizing that the end of a relationship could be a catalyst for personal growth. Seeking Solace and Strength: The Journey of Healing Amidst the heartbreak, you may discover solace and hope. Remember, you must cherish my individuality, rediscover my passions, and find comfort in my company. It isn’t easy; however, you must invest time nurturing your friendships, exploring new hobbies, and reigniting the dreams that had taken a backseat during the relationship. Each step forward revealed a newfound sense of purpose and resilience, transforming from a place of pain to one of empowerment. Embracing the Unknown: A Journey of Self-Discovery Accepting your newfound independence, I embarked on self-discovery and personal growth. You were embracing new experiences, taking risks, and allowing yourself to be vulnerable. Along the way, you will uncover hidden strengths, explore new facets of your personality, and find renewed clarity and determination. Divorces and break-ups are extremely difficult; some days, you just must put one foot in front of the other. However, it opened a gateway to profound self-discovery and personal growth. Letting go will allow you to reframe your perspective, prioritize your happiness, and embrace new beginnings. Thinking of you, Erin Time to Dish: · When did you realize your relationship was over? · When did you think you could handle what was coming your way? · Did your partner feel the same? How is your relationship with y

Social media has become an integral part of our lives, providing a platform for individuals to express themselves and connect with others freely. However, when it comes to divorced couples, social media is increasingly being used as a battleground to shame and demean one another. This unhealthy practice affects the individuals involved and has detrimental effects on their children and the wider society. In this blog, we will explore why divorced couples shame each other on social media and shed light on the negative consequences associated with this behavior. 1. Hurt and Anger Divorce can be an emotionally charged experience. Feelings of hurt, anger, and resentment can linger long after a relationship ends. Social media provides an easy outlet for individuals to vent these emotions publicly. However, airing grievances and attacking one another on a public platform only fuels the negativity, perpetuating a cycle of bitterness and animosity. 2. Seeking Validation and Support Divorced individuals may seek validation and support from their social media network to cope with the emotional upheaval caused by the separation. Sharing their side of the story might garner sympathy and consolation, making them feel heard and justified. Unfortunately, this pursuit for validation often results in airing dirty laundry and exploiting personal details, diminishing the chances of an amicable resolution. 3. Maintaining a Sense of Control Divorces can leave individuals feeling vulnerable and out of control. Social media provides a means for controlling the narrative surrounding the divorce. By shaming their ex-partner, divorced individuals attempt to regain a sense of power, hoping to shape public opinion in their favor. However, this strategy only escalates the conflict and prolongs the healing process for both parties involved. 4. Impact on Children Divorced couples often underestimate the potential harm caused by their public shaming on social media, particularly the impact it has on their children. Children being exposed to their parents' toxic online behavior can experience increased stress, confusion, and a sense of loyalty conflict. These adverse effects can impede their emotional development and even lead to behavioral issues. 5. Perpetuating a Culture of Negativity When divorced couples engage in mutual shaming on social media, it sets a poor example for others going through similar situations. By normalizing public humiliation, we inadvertently perpetuate a culture of negativity, where resolving conflicts respectfully and privately becomes increasingly challenging. This behavior also undermines the importance of compromise and cooperation in the aftermath of a divorce, hindering the well-being and growth ofr individuals and society. Divorced couples shaming each other on social media is a harmful and unhealthy practice. It intensifies negative emotions, hinders the healing process, and adversely affects not just the individuals involved but also their children. Instead of resorting to public shaming, divorced couples should seek professional help, engage in constructive communication, and prioritize the well-being of their family. Encouraging empathy, understanding, and privacy will lead to a healthier divorce process and contribute to a more positive and respectful online community. Divorce is so complex, as we all know; shaming someone even in our darkest moments will get you nowhere, even when it is so tempting. If you do not do it for anyone else, do it for your entire family and friend group. Breathe, Erin Time to Dish: · Have you shamed your ex on social media? · Did it resolve anything? · Were you court-ordered to take it down? · Would you do it again? And why?

So, playing around on dating sites can be a task; if you feel like having some quick (I mean very short) conversations, try out Bumble's Speed Dating feature. It is fun and harmless (as long as you practice safety); here are a few things you need to know: 1. Timing is critical: Speed dating on Bumble lasts only two minutes, meaning you will have to make an impression quickly. So, make sure to have some conversation topics in mind beforehand. Most people ask about age, kids, and where you live, typical, but jazz it up if you want. 2. Be respectful. Although you may be in a hurry, treating each potential match respectfully and kindly is essential. Remember, they may not be interested in continuing the conversation, and that's okay. 3. Be open-minded. With speed dating, you can connect with many different people in a short amount of time. Keep an open mind and curate to your preferences, as you may miss out on a great connection. 4. Stay safe. As with any dating app, it is crucial to prioritize your safety. Avoid sharing personal information and always meet in a public place. 5. It's all about first impressions. Putting your best foot forward is essential since you only have a few minutes to make an impression. Make sure your profile is current with recent photos and a well-crafted bio. This will help you catch the attention of potential matches during the speed dating session. 6. Practice your elevator pitch. In such a short time, it's essential to be clear and concise about who you are and what you're looking for. Practice summarizing your interests, hobbies, and key attributes briefly and engagingly. This will help you make the most of your time during the speed dating session. 7. Prepare some icebreaker questions. To keep the conversation flowing smoothly during the speed dating session, it's helpful to have a few fun and light-hearted questions prepared. These can be about shared interests, travel experiences, or even something quirky, like asking about their favorite movie or childhood memory. Having a few questions ready will help you break the ice and keep the conversation interesting. 8. Follow up after the speed dating session. If you had a good connection with someone during the speed dating session, remember to follow up afterward. Bumble provides a chat function where you can continue the conversation and get to know each other better. This is an excellent opportunity to explore your compatibility further and see if there is potential for a deeper connection. 9. It's okay if it doesn't work out. Speed dating is about meeting new people and seeing if there's a spark. Not every connection will lead to a meaningful relationship, and that's perfectly fine. Please keep an open mind, enjoy the experience, and see it as a chance to practice your dating skills. Try it if you are open to new conversations, potential matches, or need to connect with someone! Good Luck out there, Erin Time to Dish: Have you tried Bumble? If so, what has your experience been like? Have you tried Speed dating online/mobile? Did you match? If so, did you meet IRL?

The holiday season is filled with love, joy, and nostalgia. It's also a time when new relationships are tested as couples navigate the unique dynamics of dating during this festive period. Whether you've only been together for a few weeks or months, finding a balance between the holiday spirit and the still-growing nature of your relationship can make for a memorable and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you embrace the season's magic while keeping your new romance on track. 1. Communication is Key Before the holiday season kicks into high gear, having an open and honest conversation with your new partner about your expectations, feelings, and plans is essential. Discuss how you envision spending the holidays, including family traditions, social gatherings, and gift exchanges. You can avoid unnecessary stress and misunderstandings by being transparent and understanding each other's needs. . 2. Take it Slow Remember, you're still getting to know each other, so taking things at a pace that feels comfortable for both of you is crucial. While there may be a temptation to dive headfirst into all the festivities, be aware that overwhelming your new partner with too much too soon can create unnecessary pressure. Enjoy the moments together and give each other the space and time to breathe. 3. Create New Traditions Embrace the opportunity to create new traditions that reflect your shared interests and values. This can bring a sense of closeness and intimacy to your relationship while ensuring that you're not overshadowing each other's established family traditions. Whether it's cooking a special meal together, going for a winter hike, or even volunteering for a charitable cause, find activities that resonate with both of you and strengthen your bond. 4. Be Mindful of Gift-Giving Gift exchanges can be tricky, especially in a new relationship. Instead of going overboard with extravagant presents, focus on thoughtful and personal gestures that show you've been attentive to your partner's interests and preferences. Remember, the sentiment behind the gift matters most rather than its price tag. 5. Manage Expectations High expectations often accompany the holidays, but managing them constructively in a budding relationship is essential. Talk openly about your expectations for gift-giving, spending time together, and meeting each other's families. Realistic and understanding that not everything will be picture-perfect can alleviate potential disappointment and ensure a smoother, stress-free experience. Dating during the holiday season can be both exciting and challenging. By maintaining open lines of communication, taking things at a comfortable pace, creating new traditions, being mindful of gift-giving, and managing expectations, you'll be better equipped to navigate the holiday season together. Embrace the joy and magic of the season, and remember that the most important gift you can give each other is your time, love, and understanding. So again, manage expectations, do not overthink it all, and enjoy, Erin Time to Dish: · Are you newly dating? · How are you handling the holidays? · Are you going to spend the holidays together? · Are you introducing this person to the family?

Being divorced and coinciding with the holiday season can amplify the emotional stress and uncertainty. However, it's possible to navigate this difficult period gracefully and focus on creating positive memories for yourself and your loved ones. Here are some practical tips and insights on handling divorce gracefully during the holidays. Acknowledge your feelings: Allow yourself to feel the emotions that come with divorce during the holidays. It is normal to experience sadness, grief, anger, or even relief. Give yourself permission to process these emotions and seek support from trusted friends, family, or a therapist if needed. Remember, healing is a journey, and taking the time to heal is okay. Set realistic expectations: Accept that your holiday season may differ this year and adjust your expectations accordingly. Understand that traditions may change, and that's okay. Focus on creating new traditions that suit your current circumstances. Embrace the opportunity to redefine the holidays and make them more meaningful. Communicate with your ex-spouse: Effective communication can go a long way in ensuring a smooth transition during the holidays. Discuss and agree upon holiday plans, including visitation schedules and any traditions you wish to maintain. Be flexible and willing to compromise for your children's happiness. Keeping the lines of communication open can also help prevent misunderstandings and reduce stress. Prioritize self-care: Divorce is emotionally taxing, and it is essential to prioritize self-care during the holiday season. Take time for yourself, whether it's through exercise, meditation, journaling, or engaging in activities you enjoy. Engaging in self-care will help you maintain emotional balance and reduce stress, allowing you to navigate the holidays with greater grace. Create new traditions & master new memories: Instead of dwelling on what once was, embrace the opportunity to create new traditions that align with your current circumstances. Involve your children in brainstorming new ideas, making them feel empowered to contribute. These new traditions can be tailored to your unique situation, bringing joy and celebration into your life during the holiday season. Maintain a positive mindset: While divorce may have disrupted your life, it's crucial to maintain a positive mindset during the holidays. Focus on gratitude for what you still have and the opportunity for growth. Practice mindfulness and stay present in the moment, savoring the joyous experiences you can create. You can easily navigate this difficult period by acknowledging your feelings, setting realistic expectations, communicating effectively, prioritizing self-care, creating new traditions, and maintaining a good balance for your kiddos. Happy Holidays, Divorcee’s, Erin Time to Dish: Is this your first divorced holiday? Have you communicated about how you will handle each of the holidays? If you are a veteran, what advice would you give someone newly divorced? What is your schedule? Do you stick to it? What would happen if plans didn’t go well? How did you handle it? What can you do to make the holidays most enjoyable for all?

Being single has long been referred to as the 'S' word. It carries with it a certain stigma or misconception that being without a partner is somehow a harmful or undesirable state of being. But what if I told you that the 'S' in single stands for something empowering and liberating? Let’s define these: S: Self-Discovery The first meaningful interpretation of the 'S' in a single is self-discovery. Being single provides a unique opportunity to explore and understand oneself fully. It is a time to reconnect with your interests, passions, and values without the influence or compromise of a partner. Use this time to try new things, embark on adventures, and learn more about who you are as an individual. Embrace the freedom to shape your life according to your desires and aspirations. S: Strength Another powerful meaning of the 'S' in single is strength. Being single requires a great deal of strength and resilience. It takes courage to face life's challenges on your own, to stand tall when others may question your relationship status, and to resist societal pressures. Acknowledge and celebrate your inner strength, as it will guide you through any hurdles and empower you to thrive independently. S: Self-Love The 'S' in single also signifies self-love. By recognizing and embracing your self-worth, you can cultivate a deep love and respect for yourself. Instead of seeking validation or happiness solely from external sources, being single allows you to focus on nurturing a loving relationship with yourself. Take the time to engage in self-care activities, practice self-compassion, and build a strong foundation of self-love that will positively impact all aspects of your life. S: Space Being single offers an abundance of physical and emotional space to grow and evolve. Use this space to nurture your growth journey. Explore your interests, expand your knowledge, invest in personal development, and take up activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. This space is an invaluable gift that allows you to understand your desires, needs, and boundaries without compromise. S: Satisfaction Lastly, the 'S' in single stands for satisfaction. It's all about finding contentment and fulfillment in your solo journey. Being single can be a time of immense personal growth, self-discovery, and achieving your dreams. Embrace the freedom to focus on your goals and aspirations and find satisfaction in the progress you make along the way. Remember, happiness should not solely rely on a relationship status but on the fulfillment you find in your accomplishments and personal journey. Embrace and celebrate your single status as a precious period of personal growth and opportunity. Use this time to create a life aligned with your dreams and aspirations. Being single is not a limitation or a compromise – it's a powerful and liberating state of being! Take care of yourself first; then, you will be ready to care for someone else. Xoxo Erin Time to Dish: Sometimes being single sucks, how do you get through? Being single has some benefits – what are they to you? Single life is a time for taking care of yourself. What do you do to do that? What have you learned?