For some families, enjoying the holidays is not easy or merry. Regardless of the reason your family has changed this Christmas, you can make the most of the situation and still have an amazing Christmas 2019.
We have come a long way since those dreary days of separation and divorce. My daughter and I have grown happier and happier and we look forward to each holiday season.
My biggest goal after knowing my family dynamic was changing, was to get back my happiness. I did not know how but I had to be happy again. More than anything, my daughter’s happiness depended almost solely on mine. She was only 4 years old and she deserved to enjoy being a child.
I came up with a plan to change the way we thought about our lives. We needed new memories and new traditions. So I did everything little thing I could to change our outlook on life.
Take family Christmas photos:
This one is my FAV-ORITE. A tradition of family holiday photos made me feel dreamy and happy. We would have a blast getting dressed and shooting for our Christmas cards. It also lets those who were concerned about know we were doing ok and recovering. They saw hope for our future and believed with us.
Get Matching Christmas PJ’s
The coolest thing ever is Christmas PJs. Matching PJs takes it to the next level. This year we added these cozy insulated socks that we can’t do without.
Shop for a Fresh Cut Tree
That’s right. I threw out all of my five faux Christmas trees and got a fresh cut tree. We usually get Starbucks coffee or hot apple cider and browse the Christmas tree isles. It’s so rewarding! We always debate on THE ONE which is so much fun.
Attend Holiday Performances
My daughter is a dancer, singer, actress and ‘‘tis the season for performances and holiday shows. Holiday performances keep the spirit of Christmas fresh in our hearts and we enjoy them. One year we visited a live nativity scene with sheep, cows, camels, character Roman soldiers and a real Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus!
I have a few more ideas up my sleeves to keep our Christmas traditions and create new ones.
If you are going through a separation, divorce, or other traumatic experience this holiday season, know it will not always be this way. Your heart will heal and you can build happy new Christmas traditions for a lifetime.