Sharing Christmas with the Ex

I am sitting here tonight remembering Christmas when my children were small. As with many kids, mine celebrated Christmas in several different homes. Their Dad and I lived apart, and then there were a mix of grandparents and step-grandparents. While the early years were sometimes awkward, eventually we all fell into a comfortable routine of sharing holidays. Of course my kids loved all the 'extra' Christmas days that this created.

What I came to understand is that arguing and fighting over who gets the kids Christmas eve versus Christmas morning is not what "Peace on earth, goodwill to men" is all about. So, if you are in that difficult negotiating phase of a separation or divorce, remember that peace and compromise will make your children happier.

December 25 is just an arbitrary day on the calender. I intentionally chose to celebrate Christmas with my family on December 27. It gave the visiting children time to calm down a bit from spending Christmas day with their other families. My kids became so accustomed to this arrangement that even as adults they enjoy prolonging the holiday through the week.

So. as you are making plans for the Holidays, remember this is a season of joy and find creative ways for everyone to enjoy Christmas.

This little back pack can be found in our Dance Bags, Purses and Totes category and is great for overnighters. I hope you find time to stop in at Kidoodles by Kim and look at our many Personalized Kids Gifts and Personalized Baby Gifts.

One of Kim's elves,

Helen