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Being a single parent is a challenge, but it doesn't have to make you feel guilty or add to exhaustion. If you're looking for fun and easy ways to keep your child entertained without breaking the bank or wearing yourself out, check out these five activities that are just right. 1. Read a book together Reading a book is a great way to spend time with and bond with your kids. It's also an excellent activity for you to do by yourself, if you have some free time during the day or evening, as it can help pass the time. Reading together will help improve your child's reading skills by forcing them to pay attention and follow along as they read aloud together. The more often this happens, the better they'll get at it! 2. Build something together This could be as simple as building a fort in your backyard or as elaborate as a tree house that takes weeks of work and planning. If you're feeling ambitious, try making a model car or airplane with your child--it's great bonding time and can become something they cherish for years to come. 3. Take the dog for a walk to the park If you have a dog, they likely enjoy being outside and going on walks. So why not take them to the park? Many parks in your area allow dogs, so find one nearby and go there! The kids will also love seeing other people with their pets (and maybe even get some ideas for their next pet). If you haven't taken your kids to a dog park yet, this is also an option-- make sure there are no signs saying "no children allowed" before entering. 4. Plan a picnic at home, make sandwiches, pick a healthy side, and sneak in a surprise. Sandwiches are an excellent choice for a picnic at home. They're easy to make and can be healthy, too! Use different breads and fillings, or add some fruit to make it more nutritious. You can make sandwiches fun for kids by adding different spreads or toppings--like peanut butter, jelly, mayonnaise (which might not be very healthy), mustard--whatever your kids like best! 5. Play games like UNO or Scrabble together UNO is a card game that can be played with younger kids, while Scrabble is a board game that can be played with older children. Both games are relatively easy to learn but require some strategy and thoughtfulness. You'll want to choose the correct version of your chosen game for the ages of your kids: if you have younger ones who have trouble reading, stick with UNO; if you have older ones who can read well and understand abstract concepts like "X" or "Y," then go ahead and try out Scrabble! This article has encouraged you to get out and do something with your kids. It doesn't have to be complicated or expensive; make sure you spend time together as a family! Cheers, Erin Time to Dish: What are some light and easy activities you play with your kids? When they ask for you to entertain them, how do you react? What are you feeling when it’s that time to stop and focus on your kiddos?

Divorce is a term thrown around lightly, and it can be frustrating if you don't feel like you're in a situation where you should be divorced. However, being a divorcee has some perks that no one ever tells you about, such as: Divorcees have more downtime. You are not responsible for anyone else except you (and your kids, if you’re a parent). You have more time to do the things that you enjoy. You have more time to do the things that you want to do. You can date as many people as you want! And without worrying about hurting anyone's feelings. You can be more open about what you want, don't like, and what you're looking for in a partner. Dating for fun is different than dating to have children. But here’s a reality check: If you're a single parent, it's easy to feel pressure from your partner or other people to settle down and start a family. If you're not ready yet or don't want kids, this kind of pressure can be frustrating and even emotionally draining. You must know what you want before committing yourself fully; otherwise, it can lead to resentment in your relationship. Also, now that you’re single you have more time on their hands than married couples do as you don't have children or partners who need attention 24/7! This means that singles can date as many people as they like without feeling guilty about spending time apart from their significant others (or lack thereof). Single people also tend to be more selective when choosing potential mates because there aren't any kids involved yet, so if something doesn't feel right during the first few dates, no worries! You're free, free falling. Free yourself from worry and meet new people. Divorced people have a lot of freedom and flexibility, which allows them to do things that married people might not be able to. For example, go ahead if you're divorced and want to vacation with your best friend for two weeks in Europe or Asia! You don't have kids at home that need your attention 24/7 when you have joint custody. If your ex is on board with it and wants time off from parenting, go ahead! Some divorcees also don't have any worries about having kids together anymore. They've already split up, so there's no chance of having another child together. Period. Remind yourself that being single is a good thing. It's easy to forget that being single is a good thing. You might have been in a relationship for a long time and had gotten used to having someone around, but now that they're gone, you have time. Single people are also more likely to do things they want because they don't have anyone else with an opinion about it (or at least not as much). If two people were deciding where we wanted dinner or what movie we should watch, there would always be disagreements about where/what we should do. As a result of this lack of decision-making power, many divorced people decide that they need more skills so that when their next relationship comes along (or even if it doesn't), they can bring something valuable with them into the new partnership. Meeting new people isn't scary. When there isn't another person, depending on whether this new friend becomes part of your life, you can go out and meet some folks without worrying about whether they will like them enough for all parties involved! Divorcees should remember that they are free to do as they please. They can date whomever they want, go on trips whenever they want, and even sleep with whomever they want. It's a great feeling to know that no one will judge you for being single because it means there is more time for fun! Enjoy yourselves, Erin

I know from experience that letting go of a toxic relationship is not easy. I've been there and know how hard it can be to realize that you're better off without someone who doesn't deserve your love. But here's the thing: if you let yourself regret ending something terrible, you give them power over your life. And that's just not fair or healthy for anyone. So instead of looking back with regret (and wishing things had been different), let yourself celebrate how much healthier and happier you feel now that you're away from an unhealthy relationship or situation. Here’s how: Have zero regrets about your divorce. Divorce can be a good thing in most circumstances. It's not the end of your life, and it certainly won't be an easy process, but it will make you happier in the long run. You'll be able to move on and may find someone better suited for you than your ex-spouse. Your kids will also benefit from having their family shaken up because they can finally get the attention they need from both parents instead of just one parent all the time (or none). So, from where I’m standing, there are no regrets associated with divorce. Have no regrets about ending toxic relationships. I’m not saying you should make a hasty decision to end a relationship, but once you have decided and broken it off, ditch any regrets. When we are in toxic relationships, we often think back on how good things used to be when we were happy together. We think about what could have been if this person or I had changed... but now it's too late! And yet, sometimes those thoughts lead us down paths of regret: "I wish I hadn't ended things with him/her." "What if he/she comes back?" "Maybe things would be different now?" It's important not to let yourself get caught up in these thoughts because they will keep your heart open for more hurt and pain by reminding yourself just how badly things went down. Forgive yourself. Forgive yourself for the past, forgive yourself for your mistakes, forgive yourself for your failures and insecurities. Forgive yourself for your fears and shortcomings. You are human and will make mistakes, but that doesn't mean you're a failure or worthless person because of them. Be kind. Please be sure to practice kindness towards yourself. Kindness is the practice of treating others well, but it can also be a powerful tool for self-care. We feel better about ourselves and our circumstances when we treat ourselves with kindness and respect. This leads to improved health, happiness, and productivity in all areas of life. And, of course, practice kindness towards others: Make time for people who make you happy; give compliments freely; help those in need; ask "How are you?" not "What do you want?". Time to Dish: 1) Do you feel regret? If so, why? 2) Do you want to feel better about a past or current situation? How will you help yourself do this? 3) Do you practice kindness towards others and yourself? 4) What is making you the happiest right now? Until next time, treat yourself well with no regrets, Erin

*sigh*I remember my first Father's Day as a newly single dad. It was roughly two months into things as our separation/divorce happened in April of the same year. I went back and tried to remember what I did on Father's Day because I would have taken a picture of some kind, but I didn't. I have no history of that first Father's Day as a single dad. What I can tell you that I remember is how I felt. It was my first Father's Day with two kids, and I remember feeling empty, ashamed, and honestly blaming myself for a situation I did not cause. I also remember feeling so alone. It felt weird waking up knowing that part of this day, celebrating with the person who made you a father, was gone. It's a harsh yet needed realization. Alas, these feelings don't last forever. You begin to embrace your new routine and get used to it, and it's an even more special day cause you figure out how to celebrate it and maximize that time with your kids. You adapt, overcome and learn that it's no different, it's even slightly better than before. I know it can be better than before, even with all the feelings of emptiness, regret, and weirdness that the day now presents. You have to remember to have fun during the chaos. Yes, your situation is yours; it's not like anyone else's, but take the day to forget about the stress, the baby mama drama, work, and all the things that weigh on your shoulders regularly. Take a load off, and have fun. Enjoy the day, enjoy your kids, and enjoy being celebrated! So how can you celebrate Father's Day as a newly single dad, or you're in a place you're still not used to, or you're just a single dad fresh out of ideas and ways to celebrate? Go to church; if you have a relationship with a higher power, why not develop that relationship with your kids? Take yourself out to a meal. Go to your and your kid's favorite restaurant/food truck. Or cook your favorite meal with your kids and show them that Dad knows how to cook. Take yourself and the kids to the park, pool, rec center, or whatever place has something for the kids to do and you to sit and watch them play. Find a local Father's Dad event in your community and show up and attend. If you can host a Father's Day BBQ with your dad's friends, Dress up in your best dad fits, and look fabulous while doing it. Take a day trip, head to a new place, a new hike, go cave exploring, get out into nature, and disconnect for the day. Go to a sporting event. We are now into the dog days of summer, which means plenty of MLB, MiLB (Minor League Baseball), Collegiate Summer, Independent, and almost every level of baseball fully available to you. Visit my friends at https://www.baseballmapper.com/ to find a team and a game in your local area. Well, there you have it, eight things you can do or try this Father's Day as you rock the Single Dad socks! You got this; enjoy the day, and embrace the chaos. Remember, come what may, and love it! Your story is not over. Thanks for reading; if you like what you read today, head to www.ballboyblog.com and check out all of Jey's writings and creations. Follow him on I.G./Facebook, Ball Boy Blog, and Young Dad Podcast.

Written by Jey Young As a single parent, you learn to change, overcome and adapt to your new life as a single mom/dad. For single dads, there is a huge learning curve to navigating the uncharted "single dad sea." I have been divorced and navigating this sea for over two years, and the roughest waters are behind me, and it's more or less smooth sailing ahead. The waters, honestly, looking back, weren't that scary, but did they feel like I was sailing through a stage 7 hurricane, which for reference, "A storm of this magnitude would most likely have winds between 215 and 245 mph, with a minimum pressure between 820-845 millibars”. That is precisely how it feels. This brings me to how you go from 245 mph winds to being on the other side of it and enjoying a cool breeze that gently pushes your sail forward. How about a few things I did, and you can go from there? 1) Embrace the quiet. Seriously, the calm is going to be hard at first. For me, the silence was deafening and was a reminder of what was, not what could be. Once you embrace the silence, lean into it by using that new time for self-care: gym, writing, gaming, hiking, camping. Really, do something you love and enjoy and find yourself again through the silence. Remember, an empty cup can't pour into any other cup. If you are making excuses and not putting effort into filling your cup, you will struggle immensely. 2) Get your crap together. No, seriously, get yourself together mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. With an intentional focus on mind/body/soul, you become that best version of yourself. Some simple places to start are S.M.A.R.T. goals, small steps, planning, proactive vs. reactive, going to therapy, and assessing every aspect of your life. 3) Get over yourself. I know, rude. Now think about this, stop thinking about yourself, and remember what's important: your kids and their health, safety, and well-being. Stop making mountains out of molehills because I promise that brings nothing but heartache. Sidebar here: please, don't join a dad's group on Facebook to bash your ex. What purpose does that serve? Remember, friend, it's not about winning. It's about creating a stable, reliable, and positive future for your children. Don't make your kids either be motherless/fatherless because you want to prove a point or get even. 4) Let it go. I mean not to tell Alexa to play this song on repeat. You have probably heard it enough on the T.V., especially my girl's dads know what's up. Of course, letting go is easier said than done, and I will be the first to admit how difficult it is. However, why would you keep giving a crap when you could give a crap about literally anything else that is more important and self-serving. It's easier said than done, so let me give you a concept to try. I call it to bless and release. When you go through that old box or "that stuff," you say, "I bless and release *item*, and then you simply throw it away.” The next concept is similar to going on a hike or down to a body of water or making paper airplanes. You write down what you want to let go of the item, and then you throw it, far and hard. 5) Forgive yourself, those who hurt you, and then yourself some more. Truly forgive and let go of the hate, the hurt, the ill feelings, and all that pain you're holding on to. God or the Universe, whatever you believe in, wants to give you something better than what you had; there is more in store for you. But you have to open and have your heart, mind, and soul ready for what's to come. A parting thought here, a wise friend of mine uses an analogy where your life is like a board with a bunch of holes, and each of those holes has a stopper or peg in it to close it up. You must be willing to pull the old peg or pegs out to let the River of Goodness and blessing run through it and connect to the Single Dad Sea so you can put the newer, better pegs in all those places. Your story is not over. Thanks for reading; if you like what you read today, head to www.ballboyblog.com and check out all of Jey's writings and creations. Follow him on Instagram, Facebook, Ball Boy Blog, and Young Dad Podcast. Also, now you can enjoy my new book, A Baseball Game with Dad! find it on Amazon. And Happy Father’s Day!

Dramarama. Drama is not a good thing. Avoid it at all costs, especially if you're in a relationship. Drama can cause arguments and breakups, which is nothing anyone wants. Drama can be caused by over-texting and constant questioning of the relationship. If your partner (or you) texts too much or asks too many questions about where your relationship is going, it can lead to unnecessary conflict between you that could have been avoided had they just stopped texting so much (or at all). No one wants drama in their relationships. Drama is a sign of insecurity, immaturity, and poor communication skills. If you find yourself involved in drama, it's likely because you lack confidence or have trouble communicating with your partner(s). So, if you're experiencing relationship drama, take some time to reflect on what has happened in your relationship lately. Ask yourself: Is there something that needs to be addressed? Are there areas where improvement could be made? Do both parties feel respected and heard by each other? Do they feel like they have enough alone time together or with friends/family on their terms, not because one person feels pressured by another into doing so (which would indicate an imbalance between independence vs. interdependence)? These questions can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems later. Ultimately, the best way to avoid drama is by being honest and upfront with your partner. If you have something to say, then say it in person. Always be open-minded and listen carefully when your partner has something meaningful on their mind; if they keep asking the same questions, please note they are not hearing what they want, so that they may bug you; please do not cave, be honest. Neediness. Neediness is a form of insecurity. You're scared to lose the person you love and are trying to convince them that you are worth keeping around. This can be done through gifts, compliments, and other gestures to show your partner how much they mean to you. However, it also comes with its own set of problems: · Neediness makes your partner feel guilty for not giving enough back in return or making them feel like they have failed at being a good partner if they don't do something special for you as well (which only perpetuates this cycle). · When someone feels needed by another person too much, it can make them feel like their self-worth depends on what their partner thinks about them, which isn't unhealthy. Over-texting For God’s sake, put the phone down because being a text freak is a sure sign of insecurity. However (and I mean a big however), it can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on how you look at it. If you over-text your partner because they want more attention than they give you, it’s a good sign that they care about you and want to stay connected. But this could be an issue if they're insecure and need constant reassurance that the relationship is delicate. It might even mean that there are other problems in the relationship that need addressing before things get too serious between the two of you. Constant questioning of the relationship. It would be best if you were asked questions about your relationship. It's normal, and it's good to know that you have someone who cares enough about you to ask these questions. But there are ways of asking that are better than others. The best way to get answers is in person--and this goes both ways: if he/she is questioning whether they want to be with you, they should be able to answer those questions in person as well. If they can't do that, maybe it isn't worth being with them anymore. It can also be helpful for everyone involved if both parties have some time in between when one person asks their question and when another responds with theirs; it gives each party time (and space), so they're not always on edge waiting for an answer from their partner every day or every hour on the hour! And no matter how much we love our phones, texting isn't ideal for communicating essential details like "I think maybe we shouldn't see each other anymore" or "I'm getting bored/lonely/feel trapped by this relationship." Stay strong, Erin

Divorce is always an adventure (the understatement of the century). There are many reasons a couple divorces & by no means is it an enjoyable experience. But then we move on. Divorced women want to be loved and cherished again like anyone else. The most crucial thing divorced women need from their perspective or next significant other is respect. And gentlemen & ladies, you can give it to us by treating us like the unique humans we are! One of the biggest things women want from their new relationships is to feel important in their new person's life. We hope our new crush/lover/partner will drop everything for us, and they want you to make them feel like they are your priority over anything else. If a woman feels like she needs to be in the top spot on your priority list, she'll start questioning whether she should stay with you. This can lead to problems if left unresolved early in your relationship, so ensure this issue is resolved. Divorced women must also remember - and be reminded - that they are strong and can do anything they set their minds to. They need someone to be there for them as they go through their struggles instead of running away at the first sign of trouble. A man or woman willing to be supportive, encouraging, and understanding will find themselves a loyal partner who loves them unconditionally. Divorced women often feel like they have nothing left in their lives; therefore, you must give her something new: HOPE! Laughter is a must. You are going to have fun with this woman. She wants to laugh and have fun, too. She wants you to make her laugh, but she also wants to make you smile and feel good about yourself. She will do this by making you feel like the only person in the world who always matters during your relationship. This is especially true if you're dating a divorced woman who has kids from her previous marriage because she'll likely have been through some rough stuff: either with her ex-husband or, in general, after the divorce took place. You must help her feel secure in herself so she has no lingering feelings of insecurity. A divorced woman wants to be able to count on you. You can be that man (or woman) for her. You need to know what she needs from you and how best to provide it. Here are two of the most essential things divorced women look for in their new relationships: Trust - This means not only being honest but also reliable and consistent. If she asks you for something, do it as soon as possible without making excuses or putting off the task until later (and then forgetting...major buzz kill). Honesty - Divorced women typically had enough lies from their exes, so they don't want any more from the men in their lives now! If something bothers your partner or makes them unhappy, tell them immediately so they don't find out through another source later, which could hurt even more than if someone - ready, you - had just told them immediately. Being upfront about everything will help create trust between both parties involved to build stronger bonds between each other over time. Here's a big one: divorced women want a partner with an active sex life. They don't want a man who is afraid of intimacy and will run away from her if things get too serious in their minds. Women don't want a man fearful of sex and think it's okay to masturbate instead of being intimate with his wife or girlfriend. And most importantly, divorced women don't want you to be afraid of being sexual in public! They aren't looking for someone who has lots of rules about when/where/how often we should have sex because those rules only serve as walls between two people that are supposed to be connecting on an emotional level as well as physically) And finally, divorced women want a man who respects himself, his family, and you and your family. He should also respect your past relationships - including their outcomes - and don't try to make you feel guilty for them or change who you are because of what happened in them. Instead, he should learn from them so that if/when you get married again, it will be better than anything else for either of you! So, what do you need to know about divorced women? They love giving much and are looking for someone who will appreciate that. If you can make her laugh, protect her from harm and protect her family, then it's likely that she will fall in love with you. Find the love you want and need! Erin

We all want to be loved. We all want to love and be loved in return. We wouldn’t be human if we didn’t. And IMO, there’s nothing more satisfying than a healthy relationship with someone who cares deeply for you. But if you’ve been having trouble finding this type of love, or even if you think that no one will ever be right for you, I'm here to tell you that it's not true! You can find true love, and I will tell you some of the reasons you’re feeling the way you are, but at the end of the day, why L-O-V-E is worth it. You feel no one will ever be the right person for you. You are not alone; trust me on this one. You will find the right person because I firmly believe there is someone for everyone, even if it doesn't initially seem like it. If your current “love life” situation feels hopeless or impossible, it’s probably because the guy/girl you’re with isn’t a good fit. And If you're having trouble believing that there could be someone out there who would love you just as much as you love them (or more), take a moment to think about other things in your life that have been hard and have turned out well despite those challenges. When you love, and you cannot find anyone. Again, you're not alone. So many people feel the same way, and you are not to blame. But do not give up on love! Keep trying and searching until you find someone who thinks as you do. Someone willing to fight through all the hardships with you and make your dreams come true. They do exist. When you love, and they are clueless. As if! The world is not filled with men/women (OK, sillies😆) who can’t read relationship vibe signals. Trust me, there is someone out there for you, someone you can be happy with, and they will be pleased with you too. You deserve to be loved by someone who will treat you well, respect your feelings and give back what they receive from the relationship. If this person isn't showing up in your life right now, don't worry; maybe it's time for something different. Perhaps it's time for some space so that when the right person does come along, all those old feelings won't blindside you again. Sounds reasonable, right? You can also find happiness without another person being involved at all! We spend so much time searching for our soulmates, but sometimes we need to learn how to be our soulmates before we can truly understand what makes us happy or unhappy within ourselves, leading me to my next point... Love IS worth it. If you're in the process of giving up on love, take a deep breath and remember that it's worth it. That may sound sappy, but it’s true pinky swear! You will find love when you stop – yes, STOP - looking for it. Love is not a competition. Everyone has their timing, so don't worry if other people are having relationships while you aren't. Love is also worth it because there is nothing better than feeling connected with another person in such an intimate way that your hearts beat as one (another cliché but very true). However, this feeling cannot be forced or rushed into happening before its time and not to be a total downer, but it may never come. But that’s OK, too, because when you love yourself and have family and friends surrounding you, you’ll never be alone. There will always be moments when we question whether our feelings are reciprocated or whether our partner cares about us as much as we do them. But what matters most is recognizing how lucky we are to have found someone who wants nothing more than to spend time with us! Love is all we all need, Erin Time to Dish · When you love, and you cannot find anyone. · When you love, and they are clueless. · When you feel like no one loves you - that is a good person.

Does anyone know why some men insist on showing men show their ‘fish’ on dating profiles? So, you're on Tinder, Bumble, Match, Stir or any other dating app looking for love and perhaps a catch. Let’s start with the ladies’ profiles. You've swiped right on someone who looks like a potential match, but then you notice that she needs a profile picture, or it could be better at showing her attractiveness. Her “bait.” But wait: There’s a pic of her in her underwear, so there's hope! She might have something else to show off that makes her even more attractive than what appears at first sight, wink wink. But more often than not, this doesn’t even come close to what the guys do. I’m trying to wrap my head around the reasons so many men show their fish on dating profiles, even though most women – yours truly included - don't care about the size of their man's fish (or whatever else they may have to offer genetically) if he has a brain in his head and shows us some respect. So, what does make a man proud of his, ahem, “Moby Dick”? The answer is simple: they think this will attract women. But here’s what gets me: it works A LOT of the time. Women are not more likely to respond to profiles that show off that endowment, even though there's no evidence that men with big fish are any better than those without them. Why? Because we live in a culture where men feel entitled to have whatever they want, and when it comes to attracting women (or men if that’s their bias), so be it! “Hey, look what I’ve got, baby…you know you want it.” What do women care about when looking for true partners? Personality and character traits like honesty, kindness, and respectfulness matter most. But let’s be honest: In some cases, size does matter to many women. But guys, don't worry. If you've got the personality part down pat but need more confidence around fishing rods or reels, we can help you with that too! So, do most women care about the size of a man's parts? The answer is no, but only to a point. Women are more interested in a man's heart size than his penis. However, that doesn't mean a guy has to be dishonest about his financial situation when dating online. If he has nothing to offer her except a body and its sexual prowess, she will likely move on quickly once she discovers that there isn't much besides potential one-off relations. Suppose she knows from the get-go that she can rely on her partner for financial stability and security. In that case, it will make her feel secure in knowing that both parties are working together towards achieving mutual goals instead of just trying to get something out of each other without giving anything back in return - which leads us to my next point: When a man shows off his giant fish, he's probably trying to compensate for something. You know how sometimes, when someone tells another person something embarrassing about themselves (like having an STD), they feel better afterward? That's like what happens here: guys with smaller penises will brag about how big their catch is to make themselves feel better about being small downstairs. Many dudes might be showing their big fish for several reasons, but the most common is insecurity. If he has a small penis, he may think you’ll think he’s not good enough in bed. Or if some other aspect of life has shaken his confidence as a man, he may be trying to compensate for something else with this display of his giant redwood. Big fish photos are a big-time red light and a sign of immaturity and lack of confidence in self-worth, which can be a deal breaker for women looking to date someone who will treat them well in the long term (not just one night). So, what does it all mean? We hope all of you will take our advice and keep your big fish where it belongs: in your pants. It's not that we think you should lie about it or hide it from your partner, but rather that you should be aware of its meaning and how it affects others. If you're super proud of your schlong, some deeper issues might be at play here, so please make sure those are addressed before showing off this symbol of masculinity! Have a “whopper” of a day 😆 Erin Time to Dish: Have you swiped right on someone only to notice seconds later a "fish" photo? Did you date them? Did they talk about how much they love to fish?

For LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/or questioning, intersex, asexual, and others) individuals and couples, the path to marriage and divorce are not easy and is often way less clear than it is for heterosexual women and men. The main reason is that many states still do not recognize same-sex marriages or civil unions, making filing for a separation or legal divorce as complicated as their marital status, the law of the land. Additionally, some U.S. states define what constitutes a legal marriage yet have no formal procedure for dissolving a same-sex union. Add to those that most states don't have laws explicitly addressing how property should be divided in cases where one spouse wants out of a marriage, but the other doesn't want to end things legally. E.g., one partner wants alimony or spousal support but can't get that from his/her ex because they weren't married long enough before getting divorced. Let’s face it, legal mumbo jumbo for our LGBTQIA+ sisters and brothers. A closer look: A brief history of same-sex marriage. Same-sex marriage has been a hot topic, political issue for decades, but the Supreme Court's ruling in 2015 made it legal nationwide. Before that decision was made during the Obama administration, many states legalized same-sex marriage for their citizens, while others did not. Today, all 50 United States are mandated to recognize same-sex marriages in all shapes and territories (including Puerto Rico); however, not all do (more on that in a bit). Marriage equality in the United States. · If you're gay and married or are in the process of getting divorced, you must know your rights as an LGBTQIA+ person. The following information is provided for those wanting to learn more about marriage equality in America from The Human Rights Campaign. · Marriage equality in the United States was first legalized by the Supreme Court when they ruled that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry on June 26, 2015. This decision established that all 50 states must recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states or countries where it is legal (like Canada). · Currently, 15 other global nations allow same-sex marriage: Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Ireland, New Zealand, Portugal, Scotland, Slovenia, and South Africa. · You may have heard of marriage and civil unions, but what's the difference? Marriage is a legal union between a man and a woman. Civil unions are like marriages, except they are between two people of the same sex. What happens if your state doesn't recognize gay marriage? · If you're in a same-sex marriage, and even though the landmark 2015 Supreme Court ruling made it the law of the land, there are still 13 states in which it has not been actually legalized: Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Texas. · If you reside in a state that does not recognize gay marriage, several options are still available. You can file for divorce in any form (as long as it's legal). You could also file for divorce in your home state (or the original state of your nuptials) to keep things easy for everyone involved. · Additionally, if one partner has moved out of her/his state of residence after getting married and then moves back into the original shape where they were born or raised before moving out again, it’s considered a "domicile." In other words: If a person lived somewhere else for a while but returned home because they wanted to be closer in proximity to their children and then got married while living there, this would count as having established residency in both places over time (even though technically there was only one marriage). How do you get divorced if there are no statewide guidelines? · The process can be complicated if you and your partner are in a state that doesn't have LGBTQIA+ divorce laws. Although it's essential to understand your state's laws, it's also crucial to know that some states have different rules for gay couples than straight couples. · There are no national guidelines or rules for LGBTQIA+ divorce because each state has its own set of rules surrounding these situations, and sometimes those rules vary from one city or county within the same form. No one ever said marriage – or in this case, divorce – is easy, right? When is it time to file for divorce? If you are in a same-sex marriage, civil union, or domestic partnership, and your state doesn't recognize the union, you can file for divorce if: · Your spouse has been missing for at least three months. · Your spouse abandoned the family home without the intention of returning (or left because of abuse). How should property and assets be divided? The first step to dividing your property is to create a list of everything you own. This includes real estate, cars, furniture, electronics, and other personal items. Then determine who will get what based on what's fair (and legal). If the couple has children together or shared pets during their marriage, these items may be considered marital property that needs to be divided. This is another asset of divorce essential to understanding your rights as LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. You may have heard that marriage equality is the law of the land, but there are still many nuances to navigating divorce as an LGBTQIA+ individual or couple. Before filing for divorce, it's a good idea to research what protections exist in your state and whether they apply to you personally (or to both individuals). For example: · Do same-sex couples have equal access to alimony? · Can I file for legal separation if we're not married yet but planning on getting married someday soon? · Does my spouse need my consent before filing for divorce against me? There you have it in a nutshell. Is it all fair? No, but what in life is it? Stay informed, keep a level head, and educate yourself, then learn even more. Knowledge is key. You have A LOT to think about during this process, and we hope these tips will help you navigate it without too much angst. If you're ready for more information or want to discuss your situation with an LGBTQIA+-friendly attorney, please go to www.lgbtdivorcelawyer.com or call (844) 817-6273. And BTW…Happy Pride Month to everyone 🏳️‍🌈 Erin Time to Dish: What has your experience been with your divorce? Do you have a reasonable attorney you could share with our team? What has been the largest hurdle?

If you're considering dating a divorced man, it's super important to understand what they've been through. If a man is ready to date again after getting divorced, he may likely have baggage from his marriage that could affect his relationship with you. Here are some things women should consider about dating divorced men: Men (& Women) can be unpredictable during a divorce. They may not be able to express their feelings, and they might become depressed or angry. This is normal for men, who are often afraid of vulnerability and don't always know how to deal with emotions. If you’re going to “go there,” this is when he needs your support, not added stress. Divorced men often want to date again, and they want to feel desired, loved, and wanted again. Don’t we all? Most people have these natural feelings when in a new relationship, so it's no surprise that divorced men would also wish to do those same things! Divorced women should remember this when going out with divorced men, as they may seek more than friendship or companionship. Many divorced men are ready to remarry but DO NO – I repeat, do not – want to remarry their ex-wives, so just put that one out of your head. While they may have been married for many years, and there were good times during that marriage, most divorced men have also experienced the pain of divorce and would like a new beginning with someone who understands what they've been through. They may also want someone who doesn't remind them of their ex-wife, e.g., someone with different interests or personality traits than she had. Divorced men want someone who can relate to their situation and has a similar background. Many divorced men have children from previous marriages or current relationships, so you must be OK with kids if you go out with one of these guys. Divorced men might have trust, commitment, and intimacy issues. They may be insecure about their role as a man or feel like they failed somehow by being unable to save their former marriage. Divorce can also trigger feelings of loneliness, anger, and depression for divorced men, and they may feel guilty about their decision to separate. Understanding what divorced men want and needs is essential before you start dating one. You should know that divorced men have been through a lot. They've likely endured a lot of pain and challenges. And they may have also had to deal with losing their children or other family members, which is heartbreaking for anyone. OK, here’s a good one: Divorced men are often more mature than guys who aren't divorced because they've already experienced so much in life (usually). This means that you should probably expect them not only to have more experience with dating but also to understand how it works better than most people do at first glance (yes, that includes you too). It's also vital for women who date divorced men to realize that these men tend to be more sensitive because they know what it feels like when someone leaves them behind without any warning whatsoever. Therefore, they may feel more strongly about certain subjects (religion, politics, etc.) because those topics matter greatly when considering marriage/relationships before committing fully to something new after having lost everything once already. Divorced men can be great to date, but you need to understand what they're going through and what kind of a woman they want. A man ready for a new relationship may have different needs than one who has just gotten out of one (read: he needs/wants time alone). Knowing this will help you avoid getting hurt or wasting your time on someone who isn't on your wavelength. Peace my friends! Erin Time to Dish: Have you dated a divorced man? How did it go? Did they bash their ex? Did they give their ex compliments? Why did they divorce? It's ok to ask and share.

As a single woman or man, you find yourself loving multiple people; it can be confusing. You may feel like you can't settle down in a relationship or have difficulty committing to anyone. However, if you find yourself loving more than one person at once, then it's likely that your heart is doing its best to show you love in any way possible! This doesn't mean that things are "wrong" with your feelings of attraction or desire for others; instead, your relationships are just as unique and different as every other. So how do we know when it's okay to love multiple people? In this post, I'll discuss why it's okay to love multiple people at once, how those feelings manifest in our relationships with others around us (and ourselves), and how they affect how we treat ourselves throughout such experiences. Let’s start with the following: If you think you're polyamorous, it doesn't mean you're cheating. Polyamory is not about having multiple sex partners or cheating on your partner, it's about loving more than one person at a time. While this might sound like an excuse for infidelity to some people, it isn't at all. You can be faithful and still love multiple people at once. Polyamory isn't a sexual orientation; it's a relationship orientation. Polyamory is about being honest and open about your needs and having multiple relationships with honesty and communication. And it has nothing to do with sexual orientation, who you're attracted to, or how many partners you want in your life. Instead, polyamorous women and men are simply those who choose to openly acknowledge their ability to love more than one person at once, and they usually do so by entering into multiple romantic relationships concurrently (as opposed to serially). You can still be monogamous if you love multiple people. Simply put, here are the facts: o You can be monogamous and have multiple partners. o You can be monogamous and not have multiple relationships. o Or, if that doesn't work for you, there's always the option of being in one relationship with more than one person (aka polyamory). Loving multiple people doesn't make you a bad person or a cheater; it just means that your needs differ from others, and you're willing to acknowledge them. In a polyamory relationship, you can love multiple people at once. You're not cheating on your partner(s) if they know and are okay with it (though some partners might not be). Polyamory is not a sexual orientation--it's an orientation around relationships. Polyamorous relationships are often called "open" or "polyfidelity," meaning there are no rules against seeing other people. Still, everyone involved knows about each other and agrees that it's OK for everyone involved to date other people outside the primary relationship(s). Polyfidelity consists in making an explicit commitment between all partners involved to ensure that each person has equal access to their needs being met within the context of having multiple partners. In conclusion, I hope this article has helped you understand that polyamory isn't just about sex. It's about loving multiple people and being honest with yourself and your partners. You can still be monogamous if you love multiple people, but your needs may differ from others. The most important thing to remember is those loving multiple people doesn't make you a bad person or a cheater: It just means that your needs are different than others, and you're willing to talk about them. Xo, Erin Time to Dish: What are your thoughts on this topic? If you agree, why? If you disagree, why? Have you had feelings for multiple people?