NEIGHBORS WITH THE “EX”
Two years into our marriage, Russ and I became neighbors with the “Ex.” When we share this approach to divorced couples, the immediate reaction is “heck no!” Our motivation was to make it easier on the kids and provide the ability for both parents to see them everyday. Separately, Russ’ former wife and I told Russ to consider moving into the same neighborhood with the kids. The same place where my husband had lived for 12 years. I cared more about the kid’s well being than any thought about the possible awkwardness. Russ and his former wife both desired to see their children everyday. Living in the same neighborhood allowed this to happen, even if it wasn’t their scheduled night. By God’s grace a house, not listed, “magically” appeared. It was one of the best decisions we’ve made together as a family.
BENEFITS FOR CONFLICTED COUPLES?
Something I had not factored in was how little I would see Russ’ former wife. Thankfully, I have a good relationship with her. With this new arrangement, his former wife and I went from seeing each other almost every other day to not seeing each other for almost a couple months at a time.The kids would either walk or ride their bike between our homes 150 yards apart. She lived in the front of the neighborhood and we lived in the back. They no longer needed us to drive them back and forth to our homes. The logistics and need to communicate dropped considerably, which might help conflicted couples the most.
What are your thoughts about this arrangement? Comment below or share your thoughts in our private facebook group.
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