First Christmas after separation

[ikeepforgetting]

I have 2 teenage DC, and ex moved out a couple of months ago. Not amicable. Our usual Christmas Day was just the 4 of us as family are in another country, ex cooked and kids opened presents then went off to play new console games, try on new makeup etc, then regrouping for early dinner and maybe a movie. All v low key but we enjoyed it.

This year will be different of course. I have spoken to DC about it, and agreed we will eat whatever they want (neither particularly liked traditional dinner) and keep it low key again. My friends who have been in this situation have told me to expect it to be a bit shit then I won't be disappointed!

Anyone else have any tips on making it a little less awful?!

I'd say reinvent your family Christmas. Sounds as if you've made a good start with the food. Is there anything the 3 of you enjoy doing together?

Christmas is always what you make of it.

Time for new traditions.

Get your teens involved in it, if they want a tree make a teadition of picking it. Decorating etc.

As for the day itself, as teens it's unlikely to change much. They will play on consoles and put make up on etc.

It will only be shit if you let it be. Talk to the kids. What thoughts have they got?

Maybe a walk, board games, pick a series or movie range to binge

Christmas is difficult at the best of times, it's impossible to live up to the hype. I ld say focus on making it hyggie (spelling), hot chocolates, marshmallows, candles, (fire on if you have one). Expect it to be low key, with movies and chocolates.

Hunker down for the 24 hours (maybe a family stroll in the middle of the day). Expect a simple, quiet day and you won't be disappointed.

My children are a lot younger and we've done 2 Xmas since ex husband left - the first one was a bit sad. More for me I think than them - 2 youngest wouldn't really have noticed any difference - this year being the 3rd I think we have established a bit of a Xmas routine and started traditions - Xmas Eve boxes, we have a Xmas Eve film night box, Xmas onesies, bought all new decorations. Xmas day still fairly low key

So much is weather dependent as to Xmas day walks etc

Thanks all, I think more difficult with teenagers who aren't all that keen on spending time with me and would rather be out with friends. All very normal of course, but I'm expecting to spend most of the day on my own with the dog! But lots of cosy nice things will help