How To Tell The Kids

[A_goodman]

I think Steve's suggestion is guerrilla warefare. Look like a peasant to outflank the enemy. Yes, you give up a little ground on the "let her sink or swim" line, but the little bit of help you give her actually gets you more ground on the "cementing positive relationships with the bambinos line" It's a strategic trade off

You could go either way and be right in my view.

However, Summer's almost over. You probably worked hard all year keeping your lawn looking good. Don't let her mangle it now.
1) You might get the house back.
2) if you have to sell, it will go faster with a nice looking lawn.
3) If she keeps the house, by next Summer, you'll have 50% custody and she'll have plenty of time to bitch and moan about having to learn lawn maintenance all by herself. Boo Hoo

Just my $.02