Kirstin: The greatest challenge for me, and, I think for most women, is the financial one - living one income instead of two - and I did live modestly, he was laid off several times and if you were one his health insurance and you have to pay for your own benefits.......big financial issue. My Lawyer was of a lot of assistance. I was lucky my friends were very supportive. It would be nice if everyone had a support group nearby. I saw one a couple of towns over from me, but I'd already adjusted to the divorce by then.

The financial challenge is by far the hardest, especially when there is VERY limited income and an ex that refuses to pay court ordered alimony (4 orders in 7 months!!). Yes, I did get a lump sum from my share of the house bust most of it went to secure an apartment, because of limited income, furniture/lines/pots/pans/etc and legal fees!
I wish I had a more proactive lawyer and friends (they stayed with the ex) or some type of support system!