Empty Nest (Egg)

by Nancy Hunter

Many women such as myself married, became mothers, and then basically were stay-at-home moms for many, many years. We provided all the services and support not only to our growing families, but many times to our husbands as well. Sometimes after the kids reached school age, we took on part-time positions at minimum wage; but, mostly, we were 'the cupcake moms', volunteering tirelessly, carpooling, sports activities, doctor appointments, chief cook and bottlewasher, so to speak.

Fast forward, the kids are grown and out of the home. The husband, who has now climbed the corporate ladder and is very successful, decides to abandon the wife/mother. What laws in this country do we now have in effect to PROTECT this woman, to make sure she receives a fair share of the income of the man she has supported with all of her heart and soul forever and a day/29 years to be exact?

Typically, a legal battle ensues; I am in the process of such a settlement as I type, which has been ongoing for two years at great personal expense--just another point to ponder. I can state that my 'quality of life' has diminished greatly as all of our assets are divided, not to mention the emotional toll on the family. I am 52. I was a successful computer programmer many moons ago. What do I do now? Go back to school? What options are there for me at this stage of the game?