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Do friends forget about you after your divorce? You've gone through a divorce either recently or years ago and are feeling distant from the social world. The first few months are rough, but eventually, you get used to the idea that your life has changed forever. But then something happens; some of your friends seem to need to remember you regarding social events. Say, you last got invited to a party months ago. You should be asked to parties, even if it’s a couple's event. You should be invited to family gatherings, and you should be invited to social events and get-togethers. If you last asked months or even years ago, it may be time for a conversation with the person hosting (or planning) the event. If this is a friend or coworker who has forgotten about you, ask them why they haven't included you lately--and allow them to make amends by inviting you next time! Your friends are no longer interested in your life. This may hurt you a little, but it's a good thing! When you were married and had kids, you were part of their family--your divorce is not their problem. They don't want to hear about your ex-partner or what happened between you; they want their friend back. Your friends don't want to get involved in your divorce, and they don't want to be seen as taking sides and fear that saying the wrong thing could cause them more problems. Maybe they forgot that you're still around after your divorce (this my sound silly, however it happens). Perhaps they forgot that you're still around after your divorce. Maybe they're so used to seeing you as part of a couple that it doesn't occur to them that you might still be single. You are still the same person; however, when your life changes so dramatically, you move, or you are not running in the same group, it may be helpful to remind them by letting them know how happy you are now and how much better life is for everyone since the divorce. Don't let them forget! Remember that you still have feelings and needs, even after your divorce. If someone forgets about you or doesn't invite you to something because they think it might be awkward, tell them how much it hurts. If they still don't care, then it's time for some new friends who do. If you have experienced this, please share your story and solutions. Because we still like to be invited :)! Erin

Dating in your 50s is much different than in your 20s or 30s, and it's about romance and finding someone to spend time with who shares your values and interests. While you might only be able to go out on the town sometimes, there are still plenty of ways for singles over 50 to meet people. When you are 50, the world doesn't seem the same as when you were 25, and you have more responsibilities and life experiences. It may also be harder to meet people who share similar interests because they don't live near where you do or because their schedules don't align with yours as quickly as they did in your 20s and 30s. Focusing on your career makes meeting people who share your interests and values harder. You may have noticed that the most successful dating people are those with a career and a life outside of work, and this is because they have something to discuss besides their jobs, making meeting people who share their interests and values easier. If you still need to reach this point in your career (or if your job doesn't provide many socializing opportunities), it's time for a change. Finding someone can be hard when all your energy goes into work. Still, if you want to find love at 50+, then you need to make some changes now so that by the time retirement comes around, there will be more time available for dating without feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities or tired from working long hours every day. Age is just a number, but it has its limits. You might be thinking, "Age is just a number!" But the truth is that it does have its limitations. You may be able to date someone younger than you, but certain things could make your relationship difficult or even impossible. For example: If your partner wants kids and you don't want any more children--that could cause problems in the long run. Or they may have different interests from yours (like sports). Or they may have financial goals that don't match up with yours at all. You may want to date someone who can teach you something new about life. When you are 50, it's important to remember that there are many places to meet people. You don't have to limit yourself by only dating someone your age or younger (or older). Dating can be an excellent way to learn new things about life, even if your date doesn't know much more than what they've learned in their 50 years on this planet! You may want someone closer in age because it makes things easier and less complicated--but that doesn't mean you should stop looking at other options altogether just because they're not "perfect" according to some standards. Yes, dating can be challenging in your 50s! The good news is that it's more difficult to meet people when you're 50. The bad news is the same. It's harder to meet people! The dating world has changed so much since your 20s and 30s, especially for women: we have different ideas about what we want from a relationship. We may be more cautious about getting involved with someone because of our own past experiences (or those of friends). We also tend to have little time for casual dates or flings anymore--we want something serious but need to know where or how to find that person who fits our criteria precisely (and vice versa). We hope we've convinced you that dating is worth it, even at 50, if you're looking for love and want to connect with other singles in your area. With love, Erin Time to Dish: What have you experienced dating at 50 and younger? What is the best way to meet new people? Do you use dating apps? What are you looking for in this next chapter?

Actually, it is. And like all trends, this one has social and economic implications beyond the individuals involved in the divorce. The facts and figures surrounding divorce are essential to know individually, but they can also tell us how society is changing. You may hear, "Divorce rates have been declining in general." Divorce rates have generally been declining, as much as 50%, since the 1970s, and it's lower now than in the 1950s and 1930s. Sounds good, huh? Maybe, maybe not... Then there's this: "More women are filing for divorce." According to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, more women are filing for divorce than men, and this trend isn't slowing down. Women initiate 70% of divorces, skyrocketing to 90% when college-educated. Here's the rub: In many cases, wives file for divorce because they feel their husbands have become abusive or neglectful. Other times, they want to start over with someone new while maintaining custody of their children. Regardless of what drives them, women who initiate splits tend to do so because they don't feel valued by their partners anymore, not because they're unhappy with themselves or their lives. So, what is it? With less stigma surrounding single-parent households today and more significant economic opportunities thanks primarily due to advancements made during second-wave feminism decades ago, divorced mothers often find themselves able to support themselves financially without needing assistance from exes who may not even care about providing such support anyway. BAM! "More people are getting married later in life." True, more people are indeed getting married later in life. According to the census bureau, the estimated median age to marry for the first time was 30.4 for men and 28.6 for women in early 2021, up from ages 23.7 and 20.5, respectively, in 1947. Nevertheless, the reason for this trend is simple: More people are finishing their educations and establishing themselves professionally before they settle down with someone and start a family. And once you've done all those things and saved enough money to support your future spouse, you'll feel ready for marriage! "Divorce is more common among people with college degrees than people who haven't attended college." As you may have heard, divorce is more common among people with college degrees than people who haven't gone to college. This trend has been around for decades, and it continues today. According to the National Center for Family & Marriage Research, 50% of marriages end in divorce if they last ten years or more. The same study found that college graduates are less likely to get divorced than their non-graduate counterparts: only 24% do so after ten years of marriage. How about that for education? "Women initiate three out of five divorces." Yes, women are indeed more likely to initiate divorce than men. For example, three out of five divorces are started by women in the U.S. Why? The gender gap is even more pronounced in countries where women have more rights and opportunities. For instance, in Sweden and Norway - where there's been a sharp increase in female-initiated divorces- 70 % of all splits were instigated by wives. In Germany and France, it was 66%; in England, it was 60%; and in Japan, 49% were initiated by females (with the rest being mutual decisions). In addition to being older and having children, another factor that increases the odds of your ending up single maybe your personality type. Did you know that according to some experts' research on why people are more likely to get divorced, neuroticism (a tendency toward mood swings) has been linked with higher rates among both men and women alike? Especially among men who are "sensitive" or "softer-hearted." Certain personality types may have less tolerance when married life starts feeling stale after years together. These are some fascinating takes on what divorce means in our society today. Perhaps it all boils down to this: As the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, sang Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves, Bruno Mars crooned When I Was Your Man on the flip side. What's your take? Until next time, Erin

A manifestation of something is one of the different ways it can appear. You may have heard the word manifest used in many ways over the past few years, especially when creating a world you want and crave. I have heard it often lately regarding relationships and work . “Manifest what you want, make it happen?” someone once told me. You can create the world you dream of just by thinking and believing that something you want will happen. So, let’s break it down a bit more to fully embrace the concept of manifesting your life. We will relate this to the divorcee world and your future. M: Making a world in which you are your happiest can happen because you have the power to move your mindset to a better place. A: Align your thoughts and feelings as if they are honest and your wants and needs are already where you want them. N: Never derail your thoughts and think this cannot happen because it’s a proven fact it can. One way is journaling your thoughts as if you are in this happy place. I: Imagine. Close your eyes and imagine you are already with the love of your life, or you have that job you want or the home you have been dreaming of all your life, and it is yours! F: Feel the feels. How does manifesting make you feel? Does your chest fill with joy automatically? Are you there in your mind and heart? E: Express your passions by journaling or listing how you will embrace the challenge of turning your world into what you want it to be. S: Sense it. Use all your senses to create this manifested world where you oversee how you think, feel, and embrace it. T: Teach others that manifesting is a way of life. You have this world you have created already – what do you want that to look like today, tomorrow, and for years to come? Feel as if you are with that partner; you have been dreaming of someone you already know or who may be within reach. Close your eyes and take the time and feel in your heart, mind, and soul that you are there. Manifesting is not necessarily a new concept but a way of life. You may have done this through “envisioning” the way your life will/could be. However, when you manifest, you make it happen. Let’s get started with a few questions: · What does your soul want to feel? · How do you attract and surround yourself with people that bring you up? · Are you living in the moment and thinking there is a way to create the life you want? · What is the number one thing you want to manifest? Person, place, or something. · Where do you see yourself, and what will bring you happiness? Now go Manifest! Xoxo Erin

As I mentioned in our last blog post, sometimes you can travel with zero troubles, no worries, and feel safe. And while I have had safe vacation solo trips before, unfortunately I did not recently. However, there are plenty of places and ways to feel content and peaceful. Most resorts that a solo male or female travel to have everything you need to feel like you can let your guard down and relax. Here is a list of the top vacation destinations for solo travelers: 1) Bahamas 2) Belize 3) St. Lucia 4) Australia 5) U.S. Virgin Islands So what do you need to know to keep yourself safe and sound when traveling alone? Always share your travel plans with your family and a good friend or two. Make sure you can acquire an international phone plan to be able to call out at any time (some places have zero services). Do not tell people you are by yourself unless it’s a fully vetted source which can lead to people looking for you, or if you tell, they may look out for you. Secure your most important possessions in a place or safe that locks. Bring pepper spray or a whistle if you get into a dangerous situation. Do not go outside of your chosen resort UNLESS you are with others. This is a very sticky situation. You want to explore, yet I beg you not to do this alone. Get social. Just because you are on a solo trip doesn’t mean you are all alone; there is a world of people to meet and introduce yourself to. Research the ins and outs of where you are going. Look up the latest news in that area and past news so that you are in the know. Buy insurance for your trip. In case you find yourself feeling unsafe, you can get out early. Stash your cash in a safe place. Enjoy yourself, however, do not leave a drink on its own as you may end up with something in your drink you did not expect. Make sure your passport is always secured if traveling outside the United States. A significant tip I learned on my most recent trip is to turn on VPN for all your devices. These examples are only the start of many ways to stay safe. We want you to know that you can go solo and return relaxed and refreshed. Just make sure you keep your bearings intact and enjoy! Until next time, Erin

I recently traveled on a much-needed vacation to the Dominican Republic and was sexually harassed. What seemed like a great and safe idea turned upside down quickly once I arrived at an island nation I had fallen in love with just a year ago. And the harassment didn’t happen just once; it happened four times over seven days. I felt lost and very unsafe. I was approached and then cornered by a beach vendor who went on for an hour telling me how beautiful I was, how he wanted to kiss me, how I made his heart flutter, he was chocolate, I was vanilla, let’s have a great time together, asking me “have you been with a Dominican man before?”, I will show you a great time, on and on and f***ing ON. And if he lost his words for English, he translated into his phone. When I read what he was saying I was in shock. This strong woman I am felt extremely violated. The resort did not have security on the beach as they should, and I was told they could not control the vendors. Really? You cannot keep your guests safe? That made zero sense to me when I relied on this resort to not only ensure a pleasant stay but protect my well-being. Then it happened again with another man, then again, then again. I resorted to reporting this to the person assigned to my room, who then turned it over to a supervisor, who then taped a conversation about the instances and more. However, during this conversation, I was told well that is their culture, and the country is still developing. Wait, WHAT? WHY does this matter? It is not my culture to have men this aggressive hassling me. I’m certainly not naïve enough to not know that women and men get harassed repeatedly but does that mean it's OK? Does that mean a different culture justifies sexual harassment? No, it does not, and I feel violated that they thought explaining the culture would ultimately keep me around and feeling safe. I spoke with family members about the situation and while some tried to understand the culture thing, others – me included – were like, what the hell? There were some very nice fellow vacationers I had met who tried to intervene and rescue me, yet there was no hope it seemed. I could not get out of the situation fast enough, so much so that I cut my trip short, hopped on a plane and headed home. My uneasy gut told me it was time to get out of this country where they apparently justify sexual harassment toward Americans. WTF? Sadly, I now have a very bitter taste for DR. A far cry from my prior trip there when I stayed at a sister resort and not one problem occurred. It was peaceful and friendly folks continuously were checking on me as a woman traveling solo. That made this year’s trip so absolutely appalling. When you need to get away from it all, a vacation where you can breathe and have peace of mind you so desperately want, you should feel as if you can do so. From now on, I may never travel alone; that’s how traumatic this has been for me. I will probably go with a friend or two. And even though I met some wonderful guests – after they saw what happened to me, I had a tribe looking out for me – I was still unsettled and didn’t want to leave my room at night for fear I could be the next victim thrown in a closet and beaten, which I have now learned shut down this same resort a few years ago. See story here: http://bit.ly/3zA4FA2 . This is NOT OK in any way, shape or form and my next blog will focus on how to stay safe when traveling alone. Stay true to yourself and your safety, Erin

You need time just for yourself. Period. Your body, mind, and spirit have been through so much recently or over the past few years. This world can be exhausting; as we've said before, adulting is challenging especially with divorce in the mix. Sometimes you literally ache in your bones due to the exhaustion of daily life. The trials and tribulations of work, kids, activities, home issues, and house cleaning are endless today. You must schedule a time to escape, whether booking a hotel in the city in which you live or getting out of town for a solo vacation. Yes, I said solo vacation. It’s actually hilarious when I tell people I'm going on holiday alone! They ask, “No family? No friends? All by yourself?" Answer: A resounding YES, all by myself. I am so lucky to live with a world of humans who care deeply about me and my well-being. I often hear, “I don't know if I could go on vacation alone. What do you do?” Answer: "Whatever I want. Period." Sometimes you must decompress and take a vacation from the daily grind because if you don't, you'll burn the candles at both ends and eventually suffer third degree injuries. The best thing you can do to be the best parent, partner, and friend is to take this time off to reflect...or not. When reflecting, figure out what’s working and what’s not. The other day, a good friend said, "your brain needs Spring Cleaning – evaluate who’s currently in your world, what you're doing as a purpose, and how’s that treating you." I thought that was BRILLIANT...Spring Cleaning for the Brain. Here are a few ways to get started: 1) Start with your journal or create something new in writing. Anything that's been on your mind, in no particular order. 2) List your goals, short and long-term. Where are you with them? Close, or are they in the future? Either way, it doesn't matter, list. 3) What would you change in your current world, and what would be different? Are people or work dragging you down? 4) Finally, make it happen. Manifest the life you want. Spring Cleaning of the mind is so beneficial that you will feel weight falling off you that you haven’t committed to cleaning out. You may feel like a new person with new energy because you must let go of whatever drags you down, people or things. The benefit to all of this is your overall health and positive spirit. It’s time to get started NOW so enjoy! Erin

At various times in your life, you likely will have great people who want to be in your world daily and that's a huge win-win, especially when you feel the same. However, there are some individuals in your life day that you're not into seeing day in and day out. This blog is about the latter. I hear many stories of someone who may be dating someone or, as the 'kids' say “hanging out.” So, what happens when you realize hanging out is not what you intended, and you've been down this road before? You may care for someone deeply, have been married before, but now that you're divorced and single, you're finding you're unsure what you want from this other person. Well, it happens to the best of us and most of the time, quite unintentionally. You start talking to someone from the past, and one thing after another happens, net net, they dive head-in first, but you want to take a hike and not talk about your true feelings. Let’s pause right here so I can convey something I've discovered: It's OK not to have mutual feelings if you express the truth to this person. You know it will hurt them, especially as more time passes. The hard, cold truth is you are not dating this person and they have gone beyond a boundary you set long ago. Let’s talk about what to say and what phrases may help them understand it is not you, it's me. I've always thought that was a total cop-out, yet as I get older, it's actually the truth. It IS you. You're not feeling it. Sometimes you may have some connection, but not for a relationship that is sustainable throughout your life. Honestly, want to be carefree and not feel trapped. Way before I founded Divorcee Dish, I've known folks who desperately want to find real true love, and maybe that’s still on the table, but it certainly doesn't mean the first few people you meet will be that person. So, without further ado, my top 5 things to say: "I enjoy our connection; however, I’m not looking for a relationship right now. We can be together and have fun but know this will not move forward."Why, they may ask? "I'm just not feeling it. Good friends are hard to find, and if you want me in your life, we can explore a friendship, but no more than that." "You're getting too emotionally attached, and we specifically discussed the boundaries of our relationship; you have now crossed those boundaries, making moving forward for me something I am not willing to be a part of." "Yes, that is/was fun, however, that's all it is right now: fun. I’m not ready to be attached to anyone." "I want to be honest with you, you are a great person, and I want you to find happiness, but I genuinely feel this will not work on my part. However, I’d like to keep in touch if you do." "You will always hold a special place, and I cherish our memories, though I cannot be what you need me to be or take on a relationship right now." Every situation is different and my goal for this post is to encourage communication and not just stop it if you have been talking to this person often. Treat the person how you expect to be treated, and you may find out they were feeling the same. Journaling thoughts: How many times have you had to do this since your divorce? Has someone in your life pushed your boundaries? What ideas and phrases have you used in these situations? Speak your truth, Erin

Being a single parent can be great, although it has challenges. As a friend of mine said, "It Takes a Village." That statement, and every connotation it has, celebrates every mother, father, and grandparent who takes care of children independently, 24/7, or part-time. It takes a strong person to be a single parent: You are their sole provider, and they depend on YOU. Some people love it, and some people struggle. Did you know in the U.S. today, near­ly 24 mil­lion chil­dren live in a sin­gle-par­ent fam­i­ly? This total has been rising since the early '60s and covers approx. one in every three kids across America*. So in honor of today's special day, we're sharing a few facts on what it means to be a single parent, how to do the best you can, and what's most important. Here goes: Obviously, with the numbers above – you are NOT alone. Some resources can help single parents. Resources can start with hiring help or learning to navigate that crazy schedule by asking for help! Join forces with other single parents; they get it and are unafraid to lean on each other for transportation. Having kids play or being with another single parent can help you take the weight off your shoulders. It can sometimes seem chaotic to get help for childcare between work, school, and public life. Make it less messy and ensure everyone is on the same page. At the beginning of each week, ensure the kids know what is happening and where they will be for the week. Balance your schedule: You are one person, and though you’d love to do it all, it's not healthy or helpful for you to try. Call for help, and if you have teenagers that drive or kids that can fully support you…make it happen. Be consistent with your schedule. The best thing you can do for your children maintains a plan with your ex that works for both of you. This makes kids feel like they can expect the same each week even though there is back and forth. Enjoy your one-on-one time. No matter how many children you have, go into a single-parent day with a positive attitude and have fun with your kids. They may see you sweat at times, but overall memories you want to keep positive. Take care of yourself. Yes, even if kids are with you, know your limitations and do not feel guilty for taking an hour or so for yourself. Whether napping, working out, walking with a friend, or anything else you enjoy. Kids must be taught self-care; you do not need to apologize for needing your downtime. Establish special moments or traditions that are for you and your kids only. These new moments will last a lifetime. Kids feel loved and cherished during these times, times you and they will cherish forever. Be Human – meaning be honest; you do not have to be Ms. or Mr. Happy face or stoic – be you because otherwise, children can see right through that. Be accessible – when they are with you, maintain that you are there for them when they need to talk or snuggle. This fulfills one aspect of balance and stability. Lastly, life is ever-changing, and that’s all right. If you can communicate with your children what’s going on, whether good or bad, let them always know that you love them, and that’s what’s most important. One last thing: LOL at yourself! You're learning to be the best mom or dad you can, which means you’ll probably mess up, but that’s alright. Just keep a great attitude and giggle as much as possible. Xo, Erin * Source: Annie E. Casey Foundation

When you start the divorce process, it can be completely overwhelming. You have a lot to navigate through; it takes a team to ensure you correct everything. So, what terms do you need to understand as you go through the process? Annulment: An annulment is when the marriage is dissolved in a religious sector. This defines that your marriage is void and not like divorce; it is typically retroactive, meaning the marriage is considered invalid from the beginning. COBRA: This refers to health insurance; if you are on your partner's plan, you can choose COBRA as an option for 18 months after your divorce is final. COBRA stands for Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act and again relates to health, dental, and vision insurance. Deposition: You may have heard of these in general law practice many times. When related to divorce, it’s a meeting where you, the person deposed, are brought in, to tell the truth about your situation that can be used in court. Dissolution is a term used on legal paperwork and when ending a relationship for good. DR case: Meaning Domestic Relations when filing a divorce. This also means that you have officially filed, and your case will be assigned a number. Emancipation: This term is a divorce, separation, or custody battle that ends the parental control of a child. Also, the parent does not need to provide a child with any support via care or finances. Marital Indebtness: Debt that both parties acquired during the marriage. Generally, the court or your attorney splits this down the middle, and this would be anything jointly incurred throughout your “legal” time together. Prenuptial Agreement: This is defined as legal documents signed and agreed upon before your nuptials. It should clearly state what yours is yours and what’s mine and mine. Postnuptial Agreement: This agreement is a legal contract entered into after a couple has married. They define how a couple's finances, assets, and marital property will be divided in the event of a divorce or legal separation. Rehabilitative Maintenance: This term refers to short-term financial support until your ex-partner gets back on their feet. There are many more terms; however, these were chosen for clarity and knowledge as you enter this process. #beintheknow #divorce #divorceterms Good luck during your process, and try to focus on the tasks at hand and not let emotions overwhelm you. Peace, Erin

While you and your family, particularly a child – whether he/she/they is 2 or 22 - adjust to your lives post-divorce, there's one significant adjustment you're going to have to handle sooner vs. later when someone new enters your life: How to tell them you're dating. For a child, especially a young one, learning that a parent is dating again can be super scary, induce anxiety, and do their project and worry about the future. However, most divorcees suggest not introducing someone new that may be long-term until about six months with your new partner. 1) Take it slow. Children may act out when they find out you are dating someone and sometimes immediately think - is this replacing my true "Mom, Dad, Mommy, Daddy" You need to be able to state; clearly, you feel comfortable enough with your new partner to introduce them to you. 2) Quick Introductions. Quick introductions mean 1-5 months in. Some people want their children involved in every aspect of their world, whether young or older. Ensure you understand how your children feel about this before introducing someone so quickly. I learned the hard way it was waaaaaay too soon - when I did an introduction in my early divorced years. 3) Begin with an opening statement of love. Tell them how much you love your children (period). Next, ask the question, "How do you feel about meeting a new person in your life? Or do I want to introduce you to someone special in my life? Are you at a place you want to meet them? Discuss with them, do not just tell them this is happening. 4) Make it clear that your new partner is NOT a replacement. Convey and reinforce that your kids will always have your ex as their true parent. For some children, it's hard not to see the person their parent is dating as a "new" parent or a substitute for mommy or daddy. Remind them that you and your former partner will continue to co-parent as a team, and that the person you're dating won't ever replace them. 5) Settle anxieties if they are present. Reinforce that this is someone you are introducing to them, they are not moving in, etc. Awareness and clarity for kids are critical to the future conversation. The vagueness of post-divorce life may be a lot for a child at any age to feel comfortable with, hold, hug, and reinforce how much you love them. Note: You will, at some point, date again, whether casually or seriously. Think of your kids. You may be pleasantly surprised by how they react. Have questions? Send us a note: Have a great day! xoxo Erin Journaling opportunity: 1) Have you talked to your children about fellow suitors? 2) How did it go? 3) What worked and what did not? 4) Do you feel comfortable moving forward in your relationship? 5) Stick to your word. What did you promise your children and partner?

Today's lesson - no, mandate - Do NOT change yourself for others. Thinking about, in the middle of, or finito with divorce, so many of us believe it will make a difference if we change for them. Kids, I'm talking about new relationships/love interests. "If I reach out this time, they will respond or want to see me." Ladies and gentlemen: It doesn’t happen. I'm here today to express the importance of being you and loving yourself. Yes, maybe no one can understand why you text on a random day to check in on them, for instance, a friend, and if that’s how you roll, DO NOT CHANGE a thing. But today's world has become a cesspool of people just outright directing others. Chalk it up to the freedom folks feel from the outrageous online world where one can choose when and how they respond at a moment's notice. It's a great insight into who they are or how selfish they can be (is he/she an asshole or not? Check!) How about this? Think that no one likes you. As PiNK says "So What" Your inner workings have been with you since you were born. Yes, the way you grew up may have fostered your beliefs and theories about life, but ultimately your personality is your personality, and DO NOT CHANGE or ADAPT for anyone new in your life. I recently connected with someone I thought I had a lot in common with and could chat with for hours, yet I knew deep down in my gut there was something a bit off. I was RIGHT. It led to yet another ghosting episode. Sadly, this person, I believe, was ultimately insecure about so many things, yet chose to take that low road of “no response,” and, ugh, again, I felt like crap. Good thing I have a pretty tough exterior and get over that BS fast. But at the end of the day, what TF is wrong with people who flat-out disappear? There are days they want to connect with you so badly that they stop responding when you do the follow-up work and say, yes, let’s make it happen. It frustrates me, and I am a super patient person who I like to think is kind, loving, and careful. I recently told a friend, "you are my friend, so I’m not going to apologize for being me and checking in on you when I’m worried and haven’t heard from you." Friends, lovers, possible new interests: Why so many crickets? Then when they figure out you no longer give a flip to answer, they keep texting. What does that mean? And how long will you care? Net net, people show their true colors these days, and we all know in our hearts when we're not being treated right. Remember, when the ghouls start to ghost, we're worth more. So much more. So be true to yourself, stay true to you, and don't settle for anything less than you deserve. Xo, Erin