W ord S earch
DECIDING WHERE TO LIVE AFTER DIVORCE One of the biggest questions many people face after divorce is where to live and whether it makes more sense to rent or buy a new home. Beyond just finding a roof over your head, this decision carries financial, emotional, and practical weight. The “right” answer depends on your unique circumstances, priorities, and long-term goals. WHY RENTING MAY BE THE RIGHT CHOICE After a divorce, renting often provides much-needed flexibility. You may not know how your finances, career, or even custody arrangements will look in a year or two. Renting gives you time to settle into your new reality without the pressure of a mortgage or significant upkeep costs. It can also help reduce stress while navigating legal and financial transitions. For parents, renting near your child’s school or your co-parent’s home may make logistics easier. Renting also keeps your savings liquid. Instead of pouring money into a down payment, you can focus on rebuilding your emergency fund or paying off divorce-related debts. WHY BUYING MAY BE APPEALING On the other hand, buying a home provides stability. If you’re ready to put down roots, owning a place of your own can feel empowering after a period of upheaval. A permanent home offers children consistency, especially when they’re adjusting to two households. Financially, buying can also be a smart move if you’re in a strong position. Mortgage payments can build equity over time, and you may benefit from tax advantages. If your credit score is solid and you’ve received a fair property settlement, buying could be a path to long-term security. QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF • How stable is my income right now? • Do I have enough savings for a down payment and emergency expenses? • How long do I plan to stay in this area? • What feels more important right now: flexibility or stability? THE BOTTOM LINE There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For some, renting is the smartest short-term solution while they regain financial footing. For others, buying represents a fresh start and a sense of control. What matters most is choosing an option that reduces stress, fits your budget, and supports your new chapter. Rent or Buy?
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Inspired by TheCookieRookie.com
Extra-Crispy Ranch Chicken Cutlets
INGREDIENTS • Olive oil • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • 3/4 cup flour • 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese • 1 oz ranch seasoning, store-bought (1 packet) or homemade • Cooking spray
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with olive oil and set aside. 2. Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt and pepper. 3. Set out three shallow bowls. In the first, combine flour and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the eggs to the second bowl. Mix panko, Parmesan, and ranch seasoning mix in the third bowl. 4. For coating, dip seasoned chicken breasts in flour, coating both sides. Then, dip the chicken in the beaten eggs and, finally, the panko mixture. 5. Place each coated chicken breast in the prepared baking dish. 6. Spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray. 7. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165 F and is golden brown.
Divorce changes many things, but it also opens the door to creating a home that truly feels like yours, whether rented or owned.
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