• After my divorce, I moved into a new place, having lived in a fully furnished villa for a year. • I didn't own much and wanted to make this place feel like it wasn't temporary. • I shared my "divorce and moving registry" on my local Buy Nothing group, and people showed up to help.

Looking at rentals after my divorce, all I could see was expansive space — so much for my daughters and me to fill. But when I found the perfect location, I knew it was time. We craved that space, as overwhelming as it was — space to call home, space to furnish. I reminded myself of the potential and signed the lease.

Tucked in a quiet neighborhood with a tree-lined backyard, I pictured this place greeting us each day with a sense of belonging.

However, like many who start over, I didn't own the items I

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