Running out of time.

[C-Bart]

Yes. You are in trouble. That mediator did not do you a favor. It's going to be very hard to turn down $2,300 a month.

In my case, my W makes more than me and said she didn't need much from in child support and agreed with joint physical custody -- until she saw her lawyer.

Then her verbal agreement was out the window and in her petition she's going for sole custody with me getting "visitation."

So beware.

CTH,
Play things cool when looking at the initial petition. That sounds like a standard negotiation tactic. You'll get a chance to counter with a more reasonable arrangement. Remember you have the precedence set for who is spending time with the girls. Make sure you remain engaged, as I'm sure you will, in case this makes it to court (most don't). Just like you have been doing, know their teachers, coaches friends, etc. Pick up the extra time when you can.

CLV,
Bet you bought lost your lunch when the mediator threw that number out. Mediation is a good route to go. Glad you and your W were able to sit down and make the best out of a very stressful situation.

DW,
You win the lie of the day award :-) "I hate taking her money" Right. I believe you. If you want you can just send me the extra and I'll put it in the new boat for Bart fund. That way you won't feel too guilty as it will be for a good cause.