Coparenting: When Back to School Means Back to Conflict

The problem with negotiating a “one-size fits all” parenting agreement is that it’s impossible to anticipate what types of changes the children are going to experience as they get older.  The after summer transition to a new grade can be particularly trying as both parents try to adapt to new teachers, more homework, different lunches, different extra-curricular activities and new friends.

I’m managing thus far – but sometimes it seems like pulling off these transitions is a feat that’s just too much.  It seems my ex views the new school year as an opportunity for a new power struggle over one thing or another.

Life Goal: Not to be Featured on Hoarders

My home decluttering has continued.  I've gone through my closet and pulled out a ton of stuff I haven't worn (and don't intend to).  And I've finally started to part with my maternity clothes.  I had quite a collection over three children and nine years.  Some of them had even made their way into my non-pregnant wardrobe for a while.  But that's it, I've had it, they're done.  

Well OK.  I kept one pair of pants.  That's it though.  And only because they look fashionable enough and are pretty much the most comfortable pair of pants I think I've ever owned.

The Seven Critical Decisions that have Changed My Life in Surprising Ways

A few years ago, I was having difficult time of my life.  I had recently separated from my husband, was managing as a single mother with two small children at home, and having some unhappiness related to my career when I turned on the TV and happened to see a show that inspired me.  Dr. Phil wasn't a show that I normally watched at the time, and truthfully, it's not one I watch on a regular basis as I don't generally appreciate the sensational nature of most of the topics of the show.  I have absolutely nothing against Dr. Phil - I respect his position and I actually think he's a very smart man.  I also very much appreciate the efforts of his wife Robin to forward the issue of domestic violence and to help people who have been in the very position I found myself in.  But on this day, Dr. Phil was talking directly to me.  And he made sense.