Co-Parenting After Divorce Done Right

Ellie (Samantha's Puppy) - who will "fill the void this summer" for a mom who keeps her priorities in focus while co-parenting successfully with an ex-spouse.

"Our sweet baby goes to her dad's and Karla's on Thursday for ten days, then several other long stays this summer. I get all weepy and think what will I do without her for ten days? Thennnnn I think, what does her dad do without her for weeks on end???? He misses her. That's what he does.

Samantha is lucky because she was just one when we divorced, so she knows nothing different. However, many kids do. Parents SHARE your children with one another! Older children make that other parent a priority! Parents, unless the "other" parent is going to put your child in danger, make that parent a priority. They get 18 short years, let them know that just because your marriage didn't make it, that you still encourage a relationship with that other parent.

With my soapbox over, I'm going to go snuggle my girl and this rotten puppy that will fill the void this summer. Yea for 6:00 AM yelping!"

~Courtney Fuller (shared with permission)

I tell my clients this every day, but sometimes divorce brings so much pain that it's hard for people to keep putting their kids first. There is a lot of wisdom in this post (not a client) that I wanted to share. Co-parenting can be a peaceful process that gives a kid room to grow and thrive, knowing they are loved (and missed) by both parents. It takes work, but it can be done. ~R.Simmons, Attorney