Yes, I know what you’re thinking. This quarantine and generalized lockdown have made me lose my mind. Maybe so, but during this time of increased awareness of my surroundings and the safety of my family, I am overwhelmed with thankfulness.
Thankfulness for a good relationship with my ex-husband and his wife.
Thankfulness for an ex who communicates with me and our children daily.
Thankfulness for a schedule that allows my ex-husband and I to co-parent our children.
Thankfulness for extra love heaped upon our children by my ex-husband, his family and his wife’s family.
I’ve written multiple articles about co-parenting, blended families and even a letter to my children’s step-mother. I’m not an expert by any stretch, but I feel as though the last several years wading through these experiences has given me a leg up about this topic.
I know not all families will be able to have this type of relationship when it comes to ex-partners. I’m also completely aware that there are a multitude of reasons that couples part ways, and some of those would be reason enough not to pursue a further relationship.
However, in my situation, it has become one of the best things that I could do for our children. During this time of uncertainty and devastation, I have found myself trying to find the good in each and every drawback I face.
While many parents are worried about their children being home during this time that the schools are off, I’m relieved.
I cannot get the time off work indefinitely to be home with my kids, as is the case with most parents. BUT, I can be thankful that their step-mother is a teacher and will be home with them during the day, to be with them and assist them in their at-home schooling.
While many parents are incapable of being flexible with custody schedules and last-minute changes, I’m grateful. My grandmother passed away recently, and I had to travel home about 1,000 miles for the services, during the time I was supposed to have with my children according to our custody schedule. I’m grateful that my ex-husband was more than willing to rearrange the schedule and take on extra days with our children so that I could travel for my grandmother’s funeral.
While afterschool care and even before-school drop-offs can be difficult at times, I’m proud of the fact that my ex and I are able to work together and problem-solve most situations. I’m also proud of the fact that I am able to have a relationship with my ex’s wife’s family. It really has become an extended blended family.
In the midst of all the crud that seems to be inundating us on a daily basis, I am thankful that I can celebrate Ex-Spouse Day.
Yes, it sounds odd, but in what seems like a crazy, spinning out-of-control world, I’ll take whatever positives I can get!
So…
Cheers to my ex who is always there for our kids.
Cheers to my ex who is willing to talk through our disputes and come to a shared outcome.
Cheers to my ex and his wife, who I can sincerely say are my friends.
Cheers to my ex who is still in my life, despite not being part of my life.
We’ve made this life work for us, co-parenting, step-parents, blended families and all. I couldn’t be happier to celebrate this day.
