If you recently finalized your
divorce, getting through the holiday season probably seems like an impossible
task, especially if your children cannot join you at the dinner table
for Thanksgiving this year. Given how family-centric this holiday is,
coping with these changes can present some challenges, but they are not
impossible to overcome. You can still embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving
and celebrate it with your children even if they cannot spend the holiday
with you. Thanksgiving is about being thankful, so focus on that rather
than on the importance of celebrating it on a specific day.
Making Your Own Thanksgiving
Generally, in a holiday visitation schedule, parents will alternate holidays
based on whether it is an odd or even year. During the years when you
do not have the children with you on Thanksgiving, you might feel lonely
or depressed, but it is important to remember to be thankful for what
you have and that, despite being unable to spend Thanksgiving Day with
your children, you can still celebrate this holiday on another day. In
fact, you might even be able to spend the morning of Thanksgiving with
them, depending on the time specified in your holiday parenting schedule.
If that is the case, cook up a tasty Thanksgiving breakfast for them.
It could become a new tradition for you.
During the years when you have the children with you on Thanksgiving, remember
that no matter what your feelings might be about your former spouse, he
or she is still a parent to your children, so allow them to communicate.
The more kindness you show toward one another, the easier it will be to
co-parent as a team rather than as adversaries. Never forget that you
both want what is best for your children.
Lastly, remember to engage in some self-care. The holidays are a chaotic
time for people, so you might end up forgetting to take care of yourself.
Unfortunately, this will lead to unpleasant results. Run a nice hot bath,
have a glass of wine. go to the movies, spend time with friends, or go
out for an invigorating hike. Find what makes you happy and do it. Being
the best version of yourself allows you to take better care of your children,
so never neglect your own needs.
Reach Out to Our Knowledgeable Family Law Team Today!
Family law issues can arise at any time, especially during the holidays
when tensions are running high. Although it is wise to attempt to settle
some of these issues on your own, so you can learn to work as a team with
your co-parent, some problems require legal assistance. At the Law Office
of Kathryn Marteeny, our family law attorneys are committed to assisting
families navigate some of the most challenging issues they will ever endure.
With over 30 years of combined experience on our side, you can trust in
our skill and knowledge to effectively get you through this.
Get started today by
reaching out to our family law team at (713) 936-2300 to schedule a consultation with
one of our compassionate attorneys. You do not have to go through this
on your own.