Thanksgiving is fast approaching and it can be a challenging time for divorced parents. Whether your divorce was recently finalized or you have already celebrated several Thanksgivings, you might still find yourself struggling to navigate this new normal, especially if you cannot spend it with your children. However, this does not mean you cannot create new traditions. Thanksgiving does not have to be relegated to simply one specific day. If the children are not with you on that very special Thursday, choose to celebrate with them on another day. Make it yours!
Embracing the Change
The situation you were in before your divorce was probably not ideal, considering that it led to the end of your marriage. Instead of romanticizing the past and dwelling on how things used to be, embrace the changes your life underwent. Decorate your home and make it feel festive. You have a new life and it is up to you to make the most of it.
Many divorced co-parents have custody arrangements that alternate holidays with the kids, but that does not mean you can only be happy every other year. During the years when you cannot spend Thanksgiving Day with your children, choose a different day to cook up a feast and invite some friends and family over to enjoy some quality time with you and the kids.
Here are some other tips to help you create new Thanksgiving traditions after a divorce:
- If you cannot spend Thanksgiving with the kids, reach out to your friends and family members. There are likely at least a few gatherings you would be happily welcomed into.
- If you would rather be on your own, treat yourself. Make a nice meal for yourself, get started on reading a book you always had an interest in, and light up some candles to set the mood.
- Consider volunteering at a soup kitchen. Giving back to those less fortunate is a rewarding experience that can help you feel connected to others around you. You will even feel a renewed sense of appreciation for what you have.
- Stay in contact with your children. Hopefully, during the holidays or special occasions when you do not have the kids, you showed some goodwill toward your former spouse allowed him or her to freely communicate with the kids. Although you should not text them every minute of the day, text them or call them for a quick conversation to let them know they are on your mind. If they are away for several days, consider FaceTime or Skype.
Thanksgiving does not have to be a melancholic holiday. You can continue to make the best of it no matter who is at the dinner table.
Speak to a Compassionate Family Law Attorney Today
If your current child custody situation is no longer appropriate for your family or you are encountering some problems with the holiday visitation schedule, you need an experienced attorney on your side to assist you in tackling this issue. At Kallen Law Firm, LLC, our child custody attorney will provide the knowledgeable and compassionate legal guidance you need at this time.
Contactour law firm today at (314) 441-7793 to discuss the details of your case during a free case review.
