Welcome Maybell!

You're in the home stretch now. I never understood how people could throw a party to celebrate a divorce, but honestly, once I was done, I felt like celebrating the end of all the paperwork and uncertainty!

I too had to sell the house (although only my youngest, a senior in high school at the time, was home). Hopefully you'll get enough from the equity to settle into a comfortable place. (I bought a new-to-me home farther in the suburbs, much nicer house for much less money in a more middle class suburb, and love my new home.)

And yes, my Ex did such a good job of being a jerk at the end that he really made it easier for me to move on.

Some things to consider - if you are planning to buy a new home, check with a mortgage broker - I couldn't actually buy a new place until my divorce was finalized as they wouldn't count my alimony until I had 6 mos of checks and a signed divorce decree.

My divorce dragged out so it was 1 1/2 years between selling my old house and buying my new one - luckily the market stayed down during that time. Just something to consider.

Also - check out the Mr Money Mustache site for inspiration on cutting your expenses.