It seems crazy that the holidays are just around the corner, especially since the weather has been so warm.  However, as you all know, Thanksgiving is just a week away.  This article will be focused towards adults – how to deal with the changing dynamic of your family as your family has changed significantly, from two married parents to two divorced (or separated) parents.  Below are my thoughts, ideas and lessons that I have learned through my clients, I do not pretend to be a therapist nor do I want to be perceived as one.

1. Give thanks for what you have. While your family unit may not still be intact, you still have much to be thankful for.  You need to take a step back and be gracious for the kids, your extended family, your health, your job, your pet, your friends, and the list goes on.  Focus on the positive, as it will help drown out the negative.

2. You always dreaded two or three Thanksgivings anyway. Now that you are separated/divorced, you have one less Thanksgiving to attend, and for that you can be thankful.  Many of us dread celebrating the holiday numerous times with each side of the family.  Take the extra time that you have this holiday to do something you have been wanting to do – start a scrapbook, start your exercise program, watch the chick-flick no one else will watch with you or watch all of the T.V. you want with the remote in your hand!

3. Start a new tradition.  Who says that Thanksgiving is only turkey and dressing?  Go out to eat! Enjoy a movie with a friend, or stay home by yourself and order pizza.  The beauty here is that you do whatever you want.  No rules, no boundaries, just focus on you!

The common theme here is you.  Do what you want, make yourself happy, and in doing so, you will realize there is an abundant amount of blessings to be thankful for.