When people think of divorced parents sharing children, the imagery of young children come to mind. What many do not consider is how a divorce can affect an adult, especially around the holiday times. Children will be cared for according to child custody agreements and holiday visitation schedules. But what is an adult supposed to do? Are there still regulations for them to follow?
As with so many other aspects of adulthood, you are more or less “on your own” with this issue. You can spend time with as many or as few relatives as you would like during the holidays. But if you understandably want to do what you can to visit both of your divorced parents, keep these hints in mind and things might be easier to balance:
- Proximity: Who lives closer to you? If you do not have the time or finances to visit both parents, you should not put yourself in undue stress and stretch yourself too far to make the attempt. Instead, visit whoever is closer and consider seeing the other the next year. Alternating like this can be a simple yet effective solution that keeps everyone content.
- Traditions: It is important to hold onto the pieces of the past that comfort us the most, but it may be equally important to develop new traditions as time goes by. Take this time to set up fresh takes on the holidays that work well with the situation. Perhaps breakfast with your mother and dinner with your father, for example?
- Siblings: If you have any siblings, now is the perfect time to get in touch with them and see what their plans are this holiday season. Odds are, they know exactly the confusion you are going through and might have thought up a solution of their own that you can adopt.
At the end of the day, you need to make certain you are taking care of yourself first and foremost, and doing what makes you comfortable. If you can approach the situation with an open mind and an open heart, you will find that most of the time the answer finds you, rather than the other way around.
If you have more questions about divorce and family law, you can always call me, Deer Park Divorce Attorney Dennis M. Slate, at (281) 407-9254. As one of the few family law attorneys who is Board-Certified through the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, I believe I can help you and your family through this intricate time in one way or another. You can also start out by filling out an online case evaluation form if that is more convenient for you. I look forward to hearing from you.