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Jyl Barlow

Navigating life with inappropriate laughter and near-perfect hindsight.

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Tag: divorce

Pimp My Prose

When I decided to write a book three years ago, I wasn't kidding (although I did think it would only take a minute). You are never too old for new goals.

Jyl Barlow Thoughts on Blended Families Leave a comment February 6, 2023February 5, 2023 1 Minute

Goodbye, Sweet Coalbalt

He was only a cat. Right? Just a cat. Not like a dog with all its unconditional love, cuddly coat, and endless loyalty. Or an actual person, God forbid. Just a cat.

Jyl Barlow Thoughts on Pets 1 Comment November 7, 2022April 13, 2024 3 Minutes

But I am real.

"Oh, so you're their stepmom." "So they aren't your real kids..." And my favorite, "But you're not their real mom." I feel such a jolt when I hear these things - a combination of a stab in the heart (and a little in the back), anger, injustice and offense. And I often wonder if these … Continue reading But I am real. →

Jyl Barlow Thoughts on Blended Families, Thoughts on Marriage, Thoughts on Parenting Leave a comment October 29, 2019November 3, 2019 5 Minutes

Table for Four

This isn’t a love story. Don’t get me wrong, I’m madly in love with Rich. He's my best friend and husband.  Well, best friend that I also sleep with.  We all know there are levels of best friends.  You know who you are, other best friends. I still have no idea how I scored this … Continue reading Table for Four →

Jyl Barlow Thoughts from a Frazzled Bear 4 Comments August 6, 2019 4 Minutes
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Hi, Honey! is now available! Click here for a hard copy, here for Kindle, or here for additional ebook platforms.

Book cover for 'Hi, Honey! A Dementia Diary' featuring a woman in a floral swimsuit holding a snorkel mask, set against a nature background. The cover includes quotes and the author's name, JYL CJ BARLOW.
A descriptive text about the book 'Hi, Honey!' by Jyl Barlow, focusing on themes of grief, love, and loss, alongside testimonials highlighting its emotional depth and insights into the grieving process.

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Blogs that you just missed:

Travel Etiquette Bingo: Team TPA

Travel Etiquette Bingo: Team TPA

Because I travel frequently, I have the (dis)pleasure of seeing all kinds of classless behavior in airports, and let me tell you, Crocs and pajamas are just the start.

I often wonder, as I’m making my way through TSA or to my gate or to the boarding line, if I’m the only one who…

by Jyl Barlow September 14, 2026
Saying Goodbye to My Watch. Also, Have You Seen My Phone?

Saying Goodbye to My Watch. Also, Have You Seen My Phone?

My best-therapy-practices have always included assuming someone else is the problem, ignoring advice on the first pass, and shoving my muted phone deep into my purse.

But then…the lines started to blur.

by Jyl Barlow August 31, 2026August 31, 2026
No Contact Kids: Finding the Quiet Relief

No Contact Kids: Finding the Quiet Relief

What’s the big deal with going no contact?

Well, for one, it’s dangerous, devastating and, often, unjustified. Beyond that, it’s not healthy. It stunts emotional maturity and growth.

by Jyl Barlow August 17, 2026
No Contact Kids? It’s Like Walking Face-First into a Spiderweb.

No Contact Kids? It’s Like Walking Face-First into a Spiderweb.

I’ve become an expert at baiting my no-contact kid into a conversation.

My methods?

Forwarding mail, paying for college, having a death in the family, etc.

by Jyl Barlow August 3, 2026August 3, 2026
When a Calendar Fail &  Lack of E.S.P. Collide.

When a Calendar Fail & Lack of E.S.P. Collide.

Look, it was my mistake, okay?

Still, having hope for my husband’s E.S.P. to come in is fine, as long as I consider that a very loose and unpredictable fallback plan.

by Jyl Barlow July 20, 2026
The Price of Pets (is totally worth it)

The Price of Pets (is totally worth it)

“She brought an emotional support toy into the appointment.”

The price of pets? Worth it.

by Jyl Barlow July 6, 2026
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