5 THINGS TO DO BEFORE FILING FOR DIVORCE T agline Before filing for divorce, there are generally several steps a couple should take. While circumstances vary, taking these steps can help you decrease the confusion and frustration that may come along with the divorce process. Seek counseling (both together and independently). Many couples skip marriage counseling because they don’t like the idea or don’t see the point. In many cases, one spouse wants out and may refuse counseling. Though no one can be forced into counseling, it’s important to make an effort in this arena, especially if you have children. You owe it to your kids, yourself, and your spouse to consider visiting a marriage counselor or family therapist. Don’t move out of the house just yet. Barring domestic violence or other extreme situations, stay in the home until you have a chance to consult with an attorney. If you move out too soon or without having taken the proper legal steps, you could be accused of “deserting the marriage,” which will put you at a disadvantage during divorce proceedings. T ake inventory of household items. Go through every room in your house and make note of what personal property you want or has particular meaning to you. Going into a divorce knowing what you want to keep gives you a sense of what property is important to you and a basic plan to follow as you prepare for the next steps. Know what your spouse earns. Child and spousal support can easily become major issues during divorce. During the divorce process, the amount that goes to support is calculated using both parties’ income information. It’s usually easy to determine your own income, but be sure to determine exactly how much your spouse earns. Tax returns are a good place to start. Document questions and concerns. As you think about and prepare for a possible divorce, write down any questions you have about it. This includes questions or concerns about the process itself, financial issues that may arise, and custody issues, just to name a few. This will help you keep your thoughts in order during a stressful time, and you can refer to these questions when you speak to a family law attorney.
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SPOOKY STRAWBERRY GHOSTS
Inspired by Candiquik.com
These adorable chocolate-dipped strawberry ghosts will be the stars of your Halloween party!
INGREDIENTS
• 16 oz white chocolate, chopped • 24 strawberries • 1 package mini dark chocolate chips
DIRECTIONS
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the white chocolate at 50% power for 30 seconds. Remove it and stir, then repeat the process until melted. 2. Lay out a sheet of parchment paper. 3. One by one, dip the strawberries into the melted white chocolate and set them on the parchment. Allow the extra chocolate to pool to form a “tail” effect. 4. Before the chocolate coating fully cools, add three mini chocolate chips to each berry to form two eyes and a mouth. 5. Let chocolate set, then serve your spooky snacks!
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