Single mom should find friends Kindergarten-style
Much depends on whether you live in a Community Property state, or an Equitable Distribution state.
Do some research on your own regarding the divorce laws in your state, and hire a competent attorney to help you make the choice that would benefit you the most.
In my view, low-balling the value of your house in order to punish your husband financially is not an appropriate approach. But low-balling the value of your house in order to sell it quickly and restart your life might be the right thing for you to do.
Dear Amy: I could relate to the letter from "Tired Mom," who was so worn out dealing with her youngest teen daughter.
My husband and I also struggled with a "mouthy" teenage daughter (youngest of our four). In therapy, she basically said that she felt like the least valuable member of our family.
She is lovely, smart, had nice friends, and an intact family that loved her. It broke my heart. And during that time God told me to stop fighting WITH her, and start fighting FOR her. It changed everything.
-- Mary Beth
Dear Mary Beth: This is beautiful, and so very valuable. Many parents will benefit from your wisdom.
(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)
