Married couples in Texas who decide to call it quits may experience a wide range of emotions during the process. This is especially true when couples with children initiate the divorce or separation process during the holidays. The emotional fallout can be mitigated and the holidays enjoyed by remaining open to future adjustments and getting a little creative.
For those that celebrate Christmas, professionals recommend dividing the holiday — regardless of the children’s schools vacation period — into three parts, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Morning and Christmas Day. Some parents chose to alternate Christmas Eve and Day, and this is based on where the children will sleep during Christmas Eve. For parents who are comfortable being in the same room with one another, both may decide to be present on Christmas Morning.
Some parents choose to alternate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day annually and extend through the entirety of the children’s vacation. In alternating years, the child would be with only one parent. Experts recommend adding in some time for the other parent to be able to exchange gifts or perhaps engage in one of the Christmas rituals.
The holidays are cherished and important times. When couples move forward with a divorce during this time, it is possible for conflict and emotional trauma to occur. A parent in this situation may benefit by speaking with a skilled Texas divorce lawyer, who can inform the individual of the legal options, help to ensure his or her legal options and provide ongoing support focused on achieving specific goals.
Source: mediate.com, “Avoiding the Holiday Blues During Separation or After Divorce“, Lynne C. Halem, Dec. 18, 2016
