ChristineMcGrath

Christine is Wives and Moms of Long Island's blogger. She's been a wife and a stepmom since 2018. And she's the best dog mom!
My MIL Always Insists We Come to Her House. Am I Overreacting?
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My MIL Always Insists We Come to Her House. Am I Overreacting?

In Wives and Moms’ monthly “Am I Overreacting?” series, we answer an anonymous submission asking that question. Here’s what we think — how about you? Dear Wives and Moms, My mother‑in‑law insists that we come to her house for everything. We’re the only ones with small kids, and it’s a hassle to pack up the […]

Questions to Ask: Before Home Renovations
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Questions to Ask: Before Home Renovations

Smart questions that help you plan, budget and avoid surprises before you start swinging a hammer. A home renovation, whether it’s a quick refresh or a full-scale remodel, can completely transform the way your space looks and feels. But before you dive into paint colors, tile samples or Pinterest boards, it’s important to pause and […]

What I Wish I Knew Before Getting Engaged
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What I Wish I Knew Before Getting Engaged

There are things you should know – both good and bad – before you get engaged. Getting engaged is one of those life moments that feels both magical and overwhelming all at once. Whether you saw it coming or were completely surprised, slipping on that ring marks the beginning of a brand‑new chapter — one […]

Questions to Ask: A Divorce Attorney
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Questions to Ask: A Divorce Attorney

Getting a divorce can be stressful. Finding the right attorney shouldn’t be. No one walks down the aisle imagining they’ll one day be searching for a divorce attorney. But life changes, people grow and sometimes the healthiest choice is to go your separate ways. When that moment comes, speaking with a divorce attorney can help […]

Questions to Ask: A Real Estate Agent
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Questions to Ask: A Real Estate Agent

Whether you’re buying or selling your home, here are some helpful questions to ask a real estate agent. At some point, every family faces the big decision: buying or selling a home. Maybe it’s your very first house, or maybe it’s the place where you’ve built years of memories. Either way, the process can feel […]

I Just Decided to Leave My Spouse — What’s Next?
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I Just Decided to Leave My Spouse — What’s Next?

Lean on your support system as you navigate this tough time. Marriage is never simple. Deciding to end one is among the hardest choices you’ll ever face. You may have weighed the pros and cons, sought advice and even tried to make things work, but nothing has changed. Now that you’ve made the decision to […]

Questions to Ask: A Therapist
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Questions to Ask: A Therapist

Asking these questions as you see a new therapist will help to make sure you make the most out of your sessions. Whether you’re meeting with a therapist for the first time or starting fresh with someone new, the idea of opening up can feel overwhelming. This is the person who will listen to the […]

What I Wish I Knew Before Buying a House
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What I Wish I Knew Before Buying a House

Keep these things in mind before buying your own home. Congrats on buying your first home! Some of us have already been through the process, and some are just starting the search. While you probably have your checklist ready, the journey can be both overwhelming and exciting. In the rush to closing, there are a […]

Questions to Ask: Home Contractors
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Questions to Ask: Home Contractors

Whether it’s a small upgrade or a big renovation, there are important things you need to ask when hiring a home contractor. Hiring a contractor can feel like you’re stepping into unfamiliar territory – especially if it’s your first major home project. Whether you’re renovating a kitchen, adding a bathroom or building from the ground […]

Questions to Ask: On College Tours
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Questions to Ask: On College Tours

Whether it’s your oldest child or youngest child going to college, these questions will put your mind at ease. It’s an exciting – and let’s be honest, slightly nerve-wracking – season. Your baby, whether it’s your firstborn or your youngest, is officially college-bound. For many families, this means your child will be living away from […]