Skipping christmas

I know how you feel.  My STBX used Halloween as leverage to try and get me to sign divorce papers so I could spend the holiday with my son. I didn't sign, so it's the first time in 10 years that I didn't celebrate the holiday with him I love so much.  STBX hates halloween, but just wanted to use this as leverage.  I didn't put up on damn thing.

For Christmas, however, I'm going to put up decorations.  My son is nine years old, and I do love Christmas.  It's time to start making new traditions.  I understand the reminder of the holidays is a pain.  I would strongly recommend you see a therapist during this time.  It's something I did (took me awhile, but its the best thing really) and it has helped tremendously.

My heart goes out to you, and I do wish you the best of luck.

Christmas is so freaking commercialized it makes me sick. Make your own memories...it does not have to be expensive ..your kids really only want you anyway!

I missed many Christmases while my ex was working out of the country. I always tried to work on those days so someone with family could be off.
 
Yes, do something different. I don't go all out with decorations anymore. I dress up the doors, the mantle and put wreaths on the gates into the farm. No tree. I will do one holiday meal. Probably Christmas because everything is closed on that day. New Years will be steak and a baked potato and homemade chocolate pie.

Blue is right if you feel the need to skip it this year that is your choice. Do what is best for you. I am feeling the urge to do more for Christmas this year. Make new traditions in my own way.

There's no law that says you have to celebrate, so don't if you don't want to!  Something you might want to consider, though...instead of celebrating how you were used to doing it, what about starting new traditions for you?  Have roast beef instead of ham or turkey.  Decorate in a whole new decor instead of the familiar decorations you've been used to.  Go caroling if you didn't before.

Of course, that's all up to you...but if you just don't feel like it because it's just all too new, take the year off...I don't think your family or friends will begrudge you that.  But, try not to let it become tradition if you enjoyed the holidays before...just come up with different ways to celebrate.  Just my two cents.  Good luck!!!