Stumped

[PRICEPLUS]

Well, I hope Lost in Space comes back. I hope she is making out okay!

[Lost In Space]

All of your advice & suggestions are helpful. I shall not ignore any of them, nor have I ever ruled any out. Sincere thanks.
My sister died Nov.14/06 of cancer, so I 've been preoccupied & may continue to be for a while longer. BUT...I will not let her or anyone else down by letting my life slide as well.
At this point I hold onto every word & piece of wisdom I can get. I have tried to reduce my debt load, but until I am completely responsible for my debt/assets only..I must continue to sort through this mess the best way possible.

THANK YOU!!

[HalMd]

Sorry for your recent loss, and good luck with your journey.

One more word of "cheap" advice. Don't let your desire to reduce your stress make you leave the marriage with a raw. This happened to my own mother, and she regretted it for years.

In other words, make sure you get your fair share of the assets (and debt) but do not let your husband rip you off just because you want out quick. It will only cause you more harm and stress in the future.

Regarding the original situation, I would say sell your house to convert your home equity into cash to solve your debt problems. Try to get out of your car lease, and start anew. Pay down your credit cards and then save for a new smaller house. Find a higher paying job and a cheaper car.

Again, good luck.

[PRICEPLUS]

Lost in Space, I am so very sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your sister in my thoughts and prayers.

[fairy74]

Lost in Space, I am so sorry for your loss and how difficult an impending divorce makes things. Keep your head up. I am sure your sister would want you to move forward and prosper. Check in when you can. Best wishes and many prayers.

[Lost In Space]

Many sincere thanks for your kind words of encouragement, advice & support. It does not go unnoticed.

Take care.

[Elgin526]

I'm so sorry for your loss!

I'm surprised no one has suggested this yet. Get a copy of Dave Ramsey's "Total Money Makeover", it's sole purpose is to help people drowning in debt. I swear your situation is taylor made for his plan for eliminating debt.

Also, if you haven't already, see a lawyer about your divorce, he/she will give you a good idea of what debt/assets you can expect to have once the divorce is final, that will aid you in setting up a budget. Also check your credit report and make sure your husband hasn't opened accounts in your name. Put a block on so that he can't open any new accounts in your name.