The Whole Parent

What I Wish My Ex-wife Knew

Post author:John McElhenney
Post published:September 20, 2016
Post category:Anger Co-Parenting Depression Divorce Health and Fitness Married Life Parenting Self-care Single-Dad

I've given up imagining that my words or actions can change her in any way. We'd like to think we can make another person happy, or comfortable, or secure. Unfortunately, we cannot.

Focus on Your Kid’s Strengths

Post author:John McElhenney
Post published:September 16, 2016
Post category:Uncategorized

WHAT? When did we decide to do braces (even cool high-tech braces) for the kids? She's taken to making decisions without consulting me. This is not in the spirit of co-parenting. And it defies our agreements about the kids and their management and healthcare.

The Half-life of Divorce

Post author:John McElhenney
Post published:September 13, 2016
Post category:Uncategorized

Pain is an indication that something is unbalanced. Your sadness and pain at the divorce is no longer about your ex. Only you can deal with your frustration and negative feelings. So let's get going.

Custody Should Be a Collaborative Term

Post author:John McElhenney
Post published:September 11, 2016
Post category:Anger Co-Parenting Depression Divorce humans of divorce Money Parenting Single-Dad

In my future, I have my ex-wife to thank for the hardship of used car loan rates in excess of 19%. And she could care less. She claims to be all compassionate and always interested in protecting the kids' interests. But suing your co-parent is not protecting anyone's interest.

The Joy of Young Parents

Post author:John McElhenney
Post published:September 4, 2016
Post category:Co-Parenting Divorce Joy Love Married Life Parenting Self-care

I can be present, I can be honest, and I can be vulnerable with them. Today I saw the joy and blessing of a little girl with her mom and dad. I saw myself 10 and 15 years ago. And I woke up.

Back to School Challenges as a Divorced Dad

Post author:John McElhenney
Post published:September 1, 2016
Post category:Co-Parenting Depression Divorce Health and Fitness Money Self-care Single-Dad

Another year begins. My daughter is on to Volleyball, Basketball and Track/Tennis. And we're all back to our 70/30 routine. And I've got nothing to complain about and plenty to be grateful for.

Divorce Statistics

Post author:John McElhenney
Post published:August 23, 2016
Post category:Divorce

When you have children everything changes. The consequences of your divorce become much larger. And now you have their lives to consider as well. And while it's not always a…

For Hire: Used Husband, Classic Model, Works Well With Kids

Post author:John McElhenney
Post published:July 31, 2016
Post category:Anger Co-Parenting Dating Depression Divorce Parenting Relationships Self-care Single-Dad

And so, I've been girlfriend free since the end of the summer and it's fine. I'd rather not be. But I'd rather be alone that coping with another person's major emotional distress. I don't need drama or high theater.