Can you change this? How about "I hope for the best but prepare for the worse". I'm always afraid that if I expect something - it may come true...
One thing that I learned through all of this is not to expect. (I don't mean total lack of expectation because there are still very basic levels of expectations, i.e. kids will do homework, the ex will provide a safe environment for children, my boss will tell me what is expected of me on the job, that kind of stuff) But, in general, I have very linmited expectations of anyone. What it does is keepe me on an even keel. When things go awry, it isn't so bad. When things go great, it is a real blessing.
As for preparation, we should be prepared for things the best we can. We can't be ready for anything, buit there are certain things we can prepare for. Breton, in your case, you have an attorney. Good prep.
