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By Rick Navarrete
Attorney

How can I move on post-divorce?

A Texas woman recently made headline news with her “explosive” post-divorce celebration.  Kimberly Santleben-Stiteler of Lacoste, Texas decided to mark her divorce with a momentous act.  She held a divorce party with about 40 guests in attendance. With her guests gathered, she fired an explosive and set her wedding dress on fire.  The explosion was said to be felt by those living some 15 miles away. Ms. Santleben-Stiteler stated to local news sources that after her divorce, she just wanted to eliminate items from the marriage from her home.  She removed some items like photographs, but the wedding dress she decided to burn. To ensure the wedding dress truly went up in flames, Santleben-Stiteler rigged the dress with an explosive and shot it from over 200 yards away.  The result was nothing short of explosive, and Santleben-Stiteler stated the act provided her with the closure she needed.

Starting Life Anew After Divorce

While it is not advised that every divorcing spouse use explosives, Santleben-Stiteler’s sentiment in celebrating her newfound single life is one to be admired.  Divorce is often thought of as a painful and devastating experience, but finalizing your divorce can represent a beautiful new chapter in your life. A divorce is a fresh start and deserves some act of celebration.

There are many steps you can take to celebrate your divorce, from a divorce party to simple everyday acts.  If your divorce is coming to an end, consider taking the following actions to celebrate this next era in your life:

Throw a party:  Your finalized divorce could be the perfect excuse to get a group of good friends over and socialize.  Your friends have likely been a source of support throughout the divorce process, and they will no doubt welcome a chance to help you celebrate the end of your marriage and start of your new life.

Treat yourself:  A divorce can stretch finances thin, but there are many inexpensive things you can do to celebrate you.  Treat yourself to a new book, haircut, massage, or just a relaxing day to yourself to ring in your new chapter.

Start to move on:  Once your divorce is finalized, your greatest act of celebration will be moving on with your life.  Sit down and consider where you want to see yourself in the next few weeks, months, and years. Plan a vacation, start a new hobby, or consider a move.  The future is yours, so set out and grab it. 

About the Author
Rick Navarrete, a graduate of Angelo State University and Texas Tech University School of Law, has been serving the Permian Basin for over 24 years, with his practice extending across Texas. Specializing in criminal defense and family law, Rick has tried hundreds of cases before juries and judges, including high-profile matters. His extensive experience has honed a deep understanding of the law, enabling him to effectively prosecute, defend, and protect his clients’ interests. Rick has built a firm culture that prioritizes exceptional client service and personalized attention. Known for his zealous courtroom advocacy, he is equally dedicated to educating his clients throughout the litigation process. This commitment has earned him a reputation as one of the area’s most sought-after trial attorneys. Rick is an active member of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, the Texas Family Law Section, and the Administration of Rules of Evidence Committee for the State Bar of Texas. He has also served as President of the Midland County Young Lawyers Association and on the Bar Leadership Committee of the State Bar of Texas. Among his many accolades, Rick has been recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer and included in the Best Lawyers in America.