[LeeH]

For the record, I've never felt the OP of a thread owned it or that subsequent posts has to all related to the original post. In other words... it's doesn't have to be all about me.

I do really appreciate all of the honest posts about what your divorces looked like. I'm still very hopeful that when we come out the other side that we'll still be very good friends. Do I think it will be smooth sailing all the way? Well, you never know. I think we're both strongly averse to anything resembling a long, drawn out battle.

My hope is that we'll find a good mediator who will listen and guide us through the process. If I want a certain outcome and the mediator tells me that in the event of our situation being put before a judge, that outcome will never happen, then I'll simply re-evaluate. Likewise, if the mediator explains that my request WOULD likely be granted by a judge, that she will re-evaluate. Personally, I could see the whole thing being wrapped up in an hour.

Neither of us has any attachment to the stuff. I told her to take anything she wanted out of the house. She took all the good kitchen stuff, which makes perfect since as she's the accomplished cook. We had enough duplicates, that I can get by on what's left and will just buy anything I need.

So far, all of our communications have been kind, cordial, and respectful. I really don't see any reason that can't continue that way until the process is finalized. I'm committed to doing my part to minimize the pain and suffering for everyone involved. That doesn't mean I'm going to roll over and play dead, it just means I'm going be taking the high road where possible and won't be concerned about a few hundred or even a few thousand dollars. She's an extremely intelligent woman who wants to move on just as badly as I do, so I fully expect her to act in a reasonable manner throughout the process.