tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42784669541564864512024-03-05T06:28:57.334-05:00Family Focused Mediation, Inc.Bringing Harmony to Families Through MediationJenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.comBlogger90125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-34866359072527990172015-03-30T08:27:00.001-04:002015-03-30T08:27:57.692-04:00Maintaining Your Marriage Vows for Better or Worse: Tips from a Family Mediator and Attorney<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">In honor of the #MarchMarriageChallenge - thanks to Melissa Ann (<a href="http://www.theeyesofaboy.com/march-marriage-challenge" target="_blank">www.theeyesofaboy.com/march-marriage-challenge</a>) and Carrie (<a href="http://www.huppiemama.com/" target="_blank">www.huppiemama.com</a>), I have put my mediator/attorney thinking cap on and put together a list of important know-hows to keep your marriage a healthy AND happy one!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">In my business, divorce is an all too comfortable word. The sound of it alone makes me depressed and yet I assist couples navigate the waters of divorce. My professional experience as a family mediator with <a href="http://www.familyfocusedmediation.com/" target="_blank">Family Focused Mediation, Inc.</a> has provided me with some insightful tips on how NOT to divorce. Although the following may seem predictable and unoriginal, it’s always a good idea to not lose sight of what’s truly important in maintaining a healthy, happy and long marriage. <br />1. Don’t sweat the small stuff. <br />All the little nit picking with one another really does add up. The continual little jabs build on top of one another until one day the little things receive just as much negative attention as the truly major problems. All of a sudden you can not differentiate between what’s really worthy of an argument. The fact that he never properly hangs up his towel is not in need of a scolding. If it bothers you enough, fix it and move on. <br />2. Find a common interest.<br />Many couples never do things together other than the mundane eating, sleeping and taking care of the kids. Couples who enjoy a similar activity find happiness in doing it together. It doesn’t need to be as intense as training for a half marathon. It can be as simple as watching a TV series or taking after dinner walks. Having a common interest allows the couple to look forward to doing something together and not apart.<br />3. Discuss your finances every so often.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Even if only one of the spouses is the primary financial person in the marriage that does not mean that the other spouse should be left out in the dark. This topic tends to be even more appropriate when one of the spouses, primarily the wife, is a stay at home mom. Just because she doesn’t contribute financially to the household does not mean she should not be included in knowing the finances and making important decisions on how to manage them. Marriage is a dual party relationship. It requires both spouses to be on board with how the relationship functions, financially-speaking. <br />4. An apology goes a long way. <br />When a dispute arises and an argument ensues, an apology MUST happen at the end. The apology does not always have to occur immediately following the argument but it should come sometime soon after. An apology a day or two after will not suffice as a truly, authentic action. An argument with no closure only festers and will come back to haunt the couple in the future. This is even more important when the couple has children. It’s an unfortunate truth for nearly every family that the couple will argue in front of or within the earshot of the children. A shared apology between the couple shows the children that it’s alright to disagree and argue, but there is an end and the parties involved feel bad for allowing it to escalate. Children will learn that their parents love one another unconditionally even if they disagree about certain matters. <br />5. Don’t be afraid to seek help.<br />Many of the divorces I mediate could have been avoided had the couple sought marital counseling at the first signs of distress. For some unknown reason there is a stigma surrounding mental health therapy and marital counseling. And yet, a few sessions with the right counselor could save a failing marriage. If you don’t fight for your marriage, no one else will. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">6.</span><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"> Don’t forget to laugh!<br />This
last tip is crucial to the success of a healthy marriage. Humor can turn
a negative situation into a position one in an instant. It allows for
the emotionality of the immediate situation to dissipate and provides
for a sense of relaxation. Obviously, using humor as a method of
diverting the seriousness of a problem can easily be abused. But using
it in appropriate settings can help remind a couple that they love one
another and their current spat might not be that important. A marriage
that is void of humor is usually void of love too. So keep laughing at
each other and one’s self. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">These tips may seem obvious to many of us. But for those who have experienced divorce or are currently undergoing the beginning of one, these tips may save your marriage or a future one! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Although the March Marriage Challenge is almost over, head over to <a href="http://www.theeyesofaboy.com/march-marriage-challenge" target="_blank">March Marriage Challenge</a> to read up on the prior posts. They are all inspiring and insightful!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"></span><br />Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-10180141916802017342015-01-06T13:15:00.001-05:002015-01-06T13:15:06.266-05:00History in the Making<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIDjdGVEe765woUIv3qTURVMZeIExgTO8SIffe1ga3-oLon0QA-hgeg1UrD6uqg_3lm23nYPJnIMAzFVnEs2GweuJjUc0W7v2He7lm71oAM14O46AigzfpBOpIIIaTpcC42eC8xVOnEY/s1600/Gay+weddings+victory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMIDjdGVEe765woUIv3qTURVMZeIExgTO8SIffe1ga3-oLon0QA-hgeg1UrD6uqg_3lm23nYPJnIMAzFVnEs2GweuJjUc0W7v2He7lm71oAM14O46AigzfpBOpIIIaTpcC42eC8xVOnEY/s1600/Gay+weddings+victory.jpg" height="217" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">The new year has brought momentous change to the fight for gay rights. On January 5, 2015, gay and lesbian couples won the right to marry in Florida. Back in July, a Miami judge ruled the ban on gay marriage was discriminatory. However, that ruling was legally stayed along for opposition to appeal the judge's decision. When no opposition came, the stay was lifted on Monday, leading the way for gay couples to marry. The right to marry is also in effect by the ruling of Federal Judge Hinkle in Tallahassee. The state and federal courts in Florida have now both solidified that gay marriage is legal in the state. The previous ban has been stated to be "in contravention of the rights insured by the United States Constitution and is thus unenforceable". It's about time that the Florida legal system has caught up with the 21st century. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Learn more at</span> <a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article5439081.html" target="_blank">http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article5439081.html</a><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(source and picture - Miami Herald, January 5, 2015)</span></span><br />
<br />Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-59361101911402719512014-11-24T13:52:00.004-05:002014-11-24T13:52:57.737-05:00Divorce: No Refunds, Returns or Exchanges! <span style="color: #b45f06;">I'm a new contributing writer for an amazing, comprehensive divorce website. Check it out!!</span><br />
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<a href="http://divorcedmoms.com/articles/judge-i-want-a-full-divorce-refund-can-i-have-my-marriage-back"><span style="color: #b45f06;">http://divorcedmoms.com/articles/judge-i-want-a-full-divorce-refund-can-i-have-my-marriage-back</span></a><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Don't Forget to Learn More About Family Mediation at </span><a href="http://www.familyfocusedmediation.com/"><span style="color: #b45f06;">www.familyfocusedmediation.com</span></a> <br />
Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-34086190685366605192014-11-21T13:27:00.003-05:002014-11-21T13:27:37.293-05:00FRIDAY-ISM 037<span style="color: #b45f06;">As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, use it as an opportunity to truly reflect on what is important in life. Yes, you are thankful for our family, but how exactly? Thankful for their support, their love, their guidance, their companionship? When you really evaluate why exactly you are thankful for your family, you can love them that much more.</span> Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-23189682208461607052014-11-07T14:43:00.004-05:002014-11-07T14:51:14.785-05:00FRIDAY-ISM 036<span style="color: #b45f06;">Quick Tale (or Tail) about a puppy and a dog:</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">The puppy told the older dog that he has found happiness chasing his tail, and said "I'm going to chase it until happiness is mine." The older dog said he agreed, "But I have found that the more I chase it, the more it disappears." - </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Moral of the tale (tail) - Live the best life you can and happiness will come naturally.</span>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-71120838537804902932014-11-03T13:18:00.004-05:002014-11-03T13:18:56.438-05:00I'm a Mompreneur on MBM!<span style="color: #b45f06;">Look who's being featured as this Monday's Mompreneur.....ME! How exciting is that?! A big THANK YOU to Michelle Olson-Rogers of the amazing blog, Modern Boca Mom, for the post. I hope this feature helps spread the word about the wonderful benefits of family mediation as a more harmonious alternative to the traditional, litigious divorce and family dispute.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.modernbocamom.com/2014/11/mompreneur-monday-family-focused-mediation/"><span style="color: black;">http://www.modernbocamom.com/2014/11/mompreneur-monday-family-focused-mediation/</span></a><br />
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Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-525663183486443942014-10-31T13:51:00.005-04:002014-10-31T13:51:49.124-04:00FRIDAY-ISM 035<span style="color: orange;">H<span style="color: black;">A</span>P<span style="color: black;">P</span>Y <span style="color: black;">H</span>A<span style="color: black;">L</span>L<span style="color: black;">O</span>W<span style="color: black;">E</span>E<span style="color: black;">N</span>!!</span> <span style="color: black;">Wishing my readers a very happy and spooky Halloween for you and your families. But please remember wherever your children are and whatever your plans may be, Be Careful! Follow this tips to ensure a SAFE trick or treating night.</span> <br />
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<a href="http://www.safekids.org/tip/halloween-safety-tips"><span style="color: orange;">http://www.safekids.org/tip/halloween-safety-tips</span></a><br />
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Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-57553154599883537432014-10-27T14:32:00.002-04:002014-10-27T14:32:46.089-04:00Children of DivorceGood article about children and divorce:<br />
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<a href="http://www.mediate.com/articles/GordonRbl20140509.cfm">http://www.mediate.com/articles/GordonRbl20140509.cfm</a><br />
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Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-44696543814889473332014-10-17T19:34:00.002-04:002014-10-17T19:34:32.239-04:00FRIDAY-ISM 034<span style="color: #b45f06;">Being a parent is hard work. You must constantly focus on your relationship with your child(ren). If you don't put in the time while they're young and they still want to spend time with you, just imagine how much more difficult it will be when they don't want you around. Put in that special time now - you'll reap the benefits in the long run.</span> <br />
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<a href="http://www.familyfocusedmediation.com/"><span style="color: #b45f06;">www.familyfocusedmediation.com</span></a>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-1510345602316377922014-10-10T13:22:00.002-04:002014-10-10T13:22:48.537-04:00FRIDAY-ISM 033<span style="color: #b45f06;">Not quite the perfect example of Equitable Distribution:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISnOBwRJpyLPZMa_zA_Pk8JbYo4apNIS1PL7CfiCVwcgZiwdNZ9145XxxmQAjUnvXAqwYt_lv-9vjPKMWBHLBU9Cw0x0qRkuKHRzdup3UkRMVouejVJaqUxC5yRaFBnhlNyyJa5dSueQ/s1600/funny-fish-cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISnOBwRJpyLPZMa_zA_Pk8JbYo4apNIS1PL7CfiCVwcgZiwdNZ9145XxxmQAjUnvXAqwYt_lv-9vjPKMWBHLBU9Cw0x0qRkuKHRzdup3UkRMVouejVJaqUxC5yRaFBnhlNyyJa5dSueQ/s1600/funny-fish-cartoon.jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-84507562890971036122014-10-09T13:29:00.001-04:002014-10-09T13:29:52.078-04:00U.S. Supreme Court Says No....<span style="color: #b45f06;">This past Monday the United States Supreme Court finally gave its opinion about the right to gay marriage. The Court said nothing. But nothing is good news for the proponents of gay marriage. Basically, the Court denied the states that were seeking an appeal of lower court rulings banishing laws against gay marriage - those states include Wisconsin, Indiana, Utah, Oklahoma, and Virginia. This ruling means that there are 30 states now allowing gay marriage, which represents approximately 60% of Americans.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">As incredible as this news is, what does it mean for Florida? The most important ruling that still stands is from U.S. District Judge Robert L. Hinkle of Tallahassee. Although his opinion is currently being "stayed" (meaning put on hold), it remains precedent in Florida as no higher court has yet to reverse it. Proponents of the ban will request Judge Hinkle to remove the stay, however, they anticipate that Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi will oppose same. Attorney Bondi has a specified amount of time to oppose the request. Until then, Florida will continue to wait and see what lies ahead for gay marriage. Nonetheless, the road has been paved, lines have been painted and the vehicles for allowing gay marriage are waiting to enter. All we need know are the street signs. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-small;">** like that analogy??</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Want to Learn More - watch this:</span><br />
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2014/10/06/opinion/toobin-supreme-court-same-sex-marriage/index.html">http://www.cnn.com/2014/10/06/opinion/toobin-supreme-court-same-sex-marriage/index.html</a>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-86975853495145654872014-10-06T14:07:00.001-04:002014-10-06T14:07:13.445-04:00Talk is Cheap<span style="color: #b45f06;">We've all heard that "talk is cheap." Actions speak louder than words. And so on.... However, in the world of mediation, family mediation especially, talk IS cheap. Talk refers to communication between the disputing parties or family members. Communication is the key to all relationships. When communication fails, so do relationships. Those relationships include business partners, contracting parties and of course familial relationships. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">The Miami Herald, Business Monday section, published a succinct yet thorough article about mediation. The basic premise answers the question: "How do so many cases [non familial] resolve without a jury trial?" - Answer: Mediation! In 2013, in Miami-Dade county, nearly 40,000 new civil cases were filed. Among those 40,000 cases, only 210 juries were selected. Thus, civil cases had more than a 99% chance of settling outside of the courtroom. How is this possible? - Mediation, Mediation, Mediation! </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">The world of family law is not much different. There are Florida statutes requiring a judge to order a case to mediation if there is a dispute regarding a child related issue, such as visitation. The family court system has checks and balances to funnel a majority of the family law cases to mediation. Courts recognize that most family disputes should be settled by the family with a neutral facilitator, the mediator, not by a judge. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">As the Herald article mentioned, mediation is much cheaper than litigation. Mediation resolves the dispute within a matter of hours, or days if necessary. The only cost is that of the mediator's time. Litigation can take months, even years. The cost to litigate includes court costs, attorneys' fees, mediator's fees, and additional expenses in preparation for trial. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Family mediation opens up the lines of communication between the couple, co-parents, or family members, which will assist in facilitating a resolution. Although mediating pre-suit (before one files at the courthouse) is ideal, any time during the divorce/separation process is a good time to mediate. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Bottomline: Mediation was created to be an effective tool for dispute resolution. And it is! Choose to Mediate FIRST because Talk IS Cheap!</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">FAMILY FOCUSED MEDIATION, INC. <a href="http://www.familyfocusedmediation.com/">www.familyfocusedmediation.com</a></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">(Serving Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-small;">(source: Miami Herald, Business Monday, Consider Mediation: Talk's Cheaper than a lawsuit, by Scott J. Silverman, October 6, 2014)</span><br />
Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-16111344794038938112014-10-03T13:39:00.001-04:002014-10-03T13:39:46.393-04:00FRIDAY-ISM 032 - Happy Kids<span style="color: #b45f06;">Making sure your child is happy is typically one of the most important responsibilities we hold as parents. If your family dynamics are different due to divorce, separation or other circumstances, don't stress about your child's happiness. According to a recent British study, "kids who live with a stepparent or a single parent are just as happy as those in homes with two biological or adoptive parents." The study found that happiness is not determined by the family dynamics. Instead, predictors of happiness include the relationship between siblings, family activities, and having parents that don't shout. Bottomline - allow you child to thrive in whatever environment they are in by keeping his/her life as carefree, stimulating, and harmonious as possible. Happiness is bound to blossom!</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">If you're experiencing a divorce, choose family mediation first - it keeps the peace!</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"></span><br />
<a href="http://www.familyfocusedmediation.com/"><span style="color: #b45f06;">www.familyfocusedmediation.com</span></a><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">(serving all parts of Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade)</span>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-6151007031759965682014-09-26T13:15:00.004-04:002014-09-29T11:22:04.637-04:00FRIDAY-ISM 031<span style="color: #b45f06;">Perfect example of why PRO SE divorce can be the best option for a couple. **pro se = without attorneys</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">Learn more about PRO SE divorce at </span><a href="http://www.familyfocusedmediation.com/"><span style="color: #b45f06;">www.familyfocusedmediation.com</span></a> Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-34477424023357162872014-09-19T13:57:00.004-04:002014-09-19T13:57:33.632-04:00FRIDAY-ISM 030<span style="color: #b45f06;">A funny, quirky one for this Friday.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span class="firstword">"Families</span> are like fudge - mostly sweet with a few nuts." - unknown</span><br />
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Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-7351300779658828712014-09-12T13:49:00.002-04:002014-09-12T13:49:54.167-04:00FRIDAY-ISM 029<span style="color: #b45f06;">In remembrance of yesterday's 13th anniversary of September 11, I believe the following quotes are inspirational in paying tribute to those victims as well as reminding us to live our best life and to give respect to those we love and once loved. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">“Even the smallest act of service, the simplest act of kindness, is a way to honor those we lost, a way to reclaim that spirit of unity that followed 9/11.”</span></blockquote>
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<em><span style="color: #b45f06;">- President Obama</span></em></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">“If we learn nothing else from this tragedy, we learn that life is short and there is no time for hate.”</span></blockquote>
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<em><span style="color: #b45f06;">- Sandy Dahl, wife of Flight 93 pilot Jason Dahl</span></em></div>
Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-86985886392587575862014-09-08T14:53:00.002-04:002014-09-08T14:53:26.749-04:00Family Mediation - Wedding Crashers Style <span style="color: #b45f06;">Perhaps your Monday needs a little laughter... Enjoy this hilarious clip from Wedding Crashers. Although I am NOT endorsing this method of family mediating, it sure does make me laugh.</span> <br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">** Explicit words included - don't show this to your kids.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_IIyeLhmF0" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_IIyeLhmF0</a>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-63892492196228028792014-09-05T14:08:00.001-04:002014-09-05T14:08:08.997-04:00FRIDAY-ISM 028 <span style="color: #b45f06;">In honor of a comic legend, here's to not taking yourself so seriously, no matter what life throws at you: "Never be afraid to laugh at yourself, after all, you could be missing out on the joke of the century." - Joan Rivers</span> Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-22413063742826772832014-09-02T13:31:00.001-04:002014-09-02T13:31:20.149-04:00Co-Parenting Tips from the Today Show<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">A segment on the Today Show this morning briefly discusses co-parenting gone wrong. A Today Show follower states that "my husband is better with the kids than I am and it worries me that he doesn't respect me as a mom." This topic is relevant for ALL parents, those who are married and those who are not. Co-Parenting takes practice, lots of it! And if one parent feels that their parenting strategies are not being respected and followed by the other parent, then a problem quickly arises. Children need structure from both parents and more importantly, they need consistency. If this issue sounds familiar in your life as a parent, then take a moment to reflect on the problem, have a sit down discussion with your co-parent (be it your spouse, boyfriend/girlfriend, or ex) and come to a resolution on how to develop one parenting style that does not compromise one over the other, but perhaps blends them together. A family mediator has the skills to listen to both sides and create a mutual, middle ground that both parents can adhere to. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Watch the Today Show clip below. Listen closely for the key word - MEDIATE! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">(Clip starts at minute 4:15 and ends at 6:15)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><a href="http://www.today.com/id/55974610/displaymode/1283/for/facebookvideo/"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.today.com/id/55974610/displaymode/1283/for/facebookvideo/</span></span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"></span>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-90010494203569573832014-08-25T13:43:00.001-04:002014-08-25T13:57:12.209-04:00The Battle For Gay Marriage Continues<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq0Yx_XsxcSp2l7yjsVn3kIayLHRiOHG2fseEu2tODMRynkLHJz3FMei0ZALKK0fzJmr6Iq0u-gOOAym3_YCTE28LXEJ7DGw7PRNGwmilt_Temkbzge-qKoMRk2rMzm404u4mHrEX4Z5I/s1600/fed+judge+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq0Yx_XsxcSp2l7yjsVn3kIayLHRiOHG2fseEu2tODMRynkLHJz3FMei0ZALKK0fzJmr6Iq0u-gOOAym3_YCTE28LXEJ7DGw7PRNGwmilt_Temkbzge-qKoMRk2rMzm404u4mHrEX4Z5I/s1600/fed+judge+2.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">The federal court in Florida has now taken a stance on this hot topic of gay marriage. U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle of Tallahassee took a strong position in the battle against gay marriage, ordering the state of Florida to recognize gay marriage entered into in the state and those entered into out of state. In short, his opinion stated that the ban on gay marriage is an "obvious pretext for discrimination." Furthermore, Judge Hinkle ruled that "[t]olerating views with which one disagrees is a hallmark of civilized society" and the ban "stems entirely, or almost entirely, from moral disapproval of the practice." His ruling denied Attorney General Pam Bondi's argument that marriage's critical feature is the capacity of procreate. From my perspective, this defense was laughable! According to the National Vital Statistics Report of 2013, the approximate percentage of births to unmarried women was 40.6%. Even Pam Bondi herself has been married and divorced twice with no children. The pure ability to procreate in an opposite sex marriage has absolutely no legitimate effect on whether gay marriage should be recognized in Florida.</span></div>
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Although Judge Hinkle immediately stayed the effects of his ruling pending further appeal, proponents of gay marriage now have significant backing from the state and federal courts of Florida. This battle against Florida's ban wages on. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Amen, Judge Hinkle....</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-small;">(source Miami Herald, August 22, 2014 - by Steve Rothaus - picture and article)</span>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-25050109344050619732014-08-20T14:52:00.001-04:002014-08-20T14:52:01.661-04:00Child Support Redo?<span style="color: #b45f06;">Back to School Tip #2. The beginning of the school year is another good time to reevaluate your child support arrangement. The Florida Statutes are very explicit when it comes to child support modification. Unfortunately, just because your child may be incurring more expenses now that he/she is enrolled in more school activities or is now maybe a teenage driver, does not automatically mean child support needs to be increased. Key word being "automatic". </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Per Florida Statute section 61.30, a party may seek modification of a child support order if there has been a “<u><em>substantial change in circumstances</em></u>.” The substantial change between the <u>existing monthly obligation</u> and the <u>current guideline amount</u> must be a difference of 15% or $50.00, whichever is greater. What exactly is a "substantial change in circumstances" you may ask? Well, according to section 61.30(1)(a), relevant factors that a court may consider include "the needs of the child or children, age, station in life, standard of living, and the financial status and ability of each parent." </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">In a nutshell, this means nothing is a given in family law. However, if you believe your change in circumstances is substantial (ie. your child costs a lot MORE now than he/she did several years ago), then you may be a candidate for a child support modification. Modifications don't need to be battled out in court. A certified family mediator can easily work with both parents to make the necessary recalculations to child support. Check out my new website for more information.</span><br />
<a href="http://www.familyfocusedmediation.com/"><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">www.familyfocusedmediation.com</span></a>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-2372417949619591822014-08-18T13:27:00.003-04:002014-08-18T13:30:07.972-04:00Time to Review Your Timesharing Schedule<span style="color: #b45f06;">Another school year has arrived! Can you believe it!? I know I can't. Quite the morning I had with kindergarten and preschool! If you are in a co-parenting situation, this is the perfect time to review that timesharing schedule. Many schedules were created when your child(ren) were itty bitty. But now they are grown and entering the school system. As your child(ren) mature, their schedules will evolve and the current timesharing schedule may not adequately benefit them. It's always important to keep in mind that putting your child(ren)'s best interests first will maintain the peace within your family dynamic. If your timesharing schedule needs an adjustment, a mediation session with a certified family mediator is the ideal forum to make those modifications. Make the necessary changes in an efficient, less costly and harmonious manner. Check out my NEW website for more information!</span><br />
<a href="http://www.familyfocusedmediation.com/"><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><strong>www.familyfocusedmediation.com</strong></span></a>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-48158264973182078212014-08-12T13:24:00.001-04:002014-08-12T13:30:10.933-04:00NEW WEBSITE ALERT!<span style="color: #b45f06;">It has launched! Go check out my brand new website. It's awesome and full of useful information if you are experiencing a divorce, separation, or child related issues with a co-parent. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Same address, different look!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.familyfocusedmediation.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #b45f06;">WWW.FAMILYFOCUSEDMEDIATION.COM</span></a><br />
Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-4410130765656324992014-08-08T13:54:00.002-04:002014-08-08T13:54:43.108-04:00NEW WEBSITE ON ITS WAY!!<span style="color: #b45f06;">Time to upgrade my website. And the one new should be going LIVE any second now. So please check back soon to see it! It's going to be awesome! ;)</span>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4278466954156486451.post-35550958811748566452014-08-05T13:24:00.001-04:002014-08-05T13:35:39.763-04:003rd Times A Charm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZuol8wlnfG8J3-lUExT9sTQ53U3FtNRTpv2pwP765Vh7nZD1IDMNPFIoyvRYXKb03ZJPdV2kuF2XQY6TlOojix-kzQ7F3P0LfvW2kRwj8hN4k0o_4b-Exgw_NryJUbXDNu6UNaR9XvY/s1600/gavel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZuol8wlnfG8J3-lUExT9sTQ53U3FtNRTpv2pwP765Vh7nZD1IDMNPFIoyvRYXKb03ZJPdV2kuF2XQY6TlOojix-kzQ7F3P0LfvW2kRwj8hN4k0o_4b-Exgw_NryJUbXDNu6UNaR9XvY/s1600/gavel.jpg" height="183" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">Well, maybe. The Broward Judge who was assigned to a lesbian woman's lawsuit in her fight to receive a divorce, declared the Florida gay marriage ban unconstitutional. Judge Cohen ruled that in order to consider the divorce, he first had to evaluate whether the ban on same sex marriage was constitutional. Although this a giant success in the fight against the 2008 same sex marriage ban, his ruling was immediately stayed pending a possible appeal by Florida Attorney General, Pam Bondi. However, Judge Cohen's words were poignant -</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"> "This Court believes that the issue here is not whether there is a right to same sex marriage but instead whether there is a right to marriage from which same sex couples can be excluded. The State of Florida cannot ignore the status and dignity afforded to opposite sex couples, who were married out of state, and not extend those same rights, dignities, and benefits to same sex couples similarly situated." </span></blockquote>
<span style="color: #b45f06;"> In contract to the benefits of marriage, the protections that come with separation and divorce, such as child custody and property issues, must also be afforded to same sex couples. As a family mediator, I am proud to be a resident of South Florida, where our legal system is attempting to fight this horrible, discriminatory ban on same sex couples. Let's just hope that Attorney Pam Bondi focuses her efforts on enforcing Florida's legal issues elsewhere.</span> <br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-small;">(source Miami Herald by Steve Rothaus, August 5, 2014)</span>Jenny Shanehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09960241754439298509noreply@blogger.com0