Christmas can be the most difficult times of the year to be without your child. Seeing all of the holiday
decorations, Santa’s in the malls, kids running around being festive about the holiday season can leave you feeling overwhelmed and depressed. Every parent wants to see their child wake up Christmas morning to open their gifts, so what can you do if your child will be with their other parent?
My first year was very difficult without my son, but since then I have learned three key things that have help me deal with this transition.
1. Celebrate Christmas early or late
My son taught me that the date is not as important as the time spent at home. Last year we had Christmas early. We planned a day when he was able to wake up early in the morning and open all of his gifts. He had all of his favorite meals and we played all day with his new games and toys. If you are not able to celebrate early, it’s okay to plan something for your child when they return home. It’s never too late to celebrate.
2. Volunteer
It is exciting to put a smile on someone else’s face. There are so many people who don’t have anyone in their life to care for them, or have lost a love one and the holiday season can be extremely difficult for them to get through. You can start be contacting your local shelter, senior citizen homes or church. It always great to give back to those in need.
3. Pamper yourself
Don’t be afraid to take time out for yourself. You can treat yourself to massage, manicure or pedicure. Go see a movie that you’ve been waiting to come out. If you are not able to spend a lot of money, stay home and fix your favorite meal, watch your favorite program, sit quietly and listing to some music or read a book.
You have to find time to fine tune yourself so you can be a better person to yourself and your love ones.
If you are having a difficult time with sharing holidays with your ex, we are here to help you with life transitions.
Dione Simmons, MA, LPC
Transitions Counseling offers flexible scheduling hours to meet most client needs and budget.
Contact us today at 817-680-9218
