When Daddy Moves to an Apartment
Divorce is hard, there's no question about it. Not only has your
marriage ended but, most likely, your lifestyle is undergoing
some drastic changes also. This is especially true if you are
forced to leave the place that was home to you and your family.
Depending on your particular situation, you may find that moving
into an apartment is your only option. Many times it's hard to
think of an apartment as home after you've been accustomed to
living in a house surrounded by family. But, if you choose your
apartment wisely, you may find it'll become a cozy, comfortable
haven.
Take some time to select your apartment.
Remember, this is going to be your new home. Don't rush the
selection process. Decide how much you can afford to spend for
rent and look at as many apartments in that range as you can.
Location should be one of your prime considerations. Your life
is complicated enough right now, don't make it worse by choosing
an inconvenient location where commuting becomes a problem.
If your children will be visiting regularly be sure your
apartment is large enough to let them feel at home. If possible,
select an apartment with a room just for them. Let them have a
hand in decorating it so they'll feel a part of it. If you have
joint custody of the children and they will be living with you
while attending school, you'll also want to choose an apartment
that is convenient to their schools and recreation areas.
The type of apartment you choose will be important to how well
you adapt to living in it. Like a house, choose one that fits
your personality. If you like puttering in the yard, make sure
there is some private space where you can do that ~ even if it's
just planting flower boxes on your patio. If you enjoy cooking,
make sure the kitchen meets your requirements.
You also need to consider the atmosphere of your apartment
complex. If you're going to have children living with you part
time, most likely a singles community would not be the best
choice. Neither would you probably want to choose an apartment
in a building that is filled with senior citizens. If there are
pets involved, make sure rules don't prohibit them.
Turn your apartment into a home.
Don't consider your apartment a place of exile! It's your new
home and if you want to be happy there, you must give it your
attention. Unpack the boxes and arrange your furniture in a way
that's pleasing to you. Hang pictures or other art work on the
walls and stamp your new home with your own personality. If you
take pride in decorating it according to your own tastes, you'll
find it becomes a welcoming and comfortable place to be.
Remember you no longer have to consider anyone else's
preferences ~ this is all yours to do with as you please!
The more you're apartment reflects you and your interests, the
more it will seem like home.
Enjoy it!