Mother’s Day is around the corner. Already a tough time for most people to recognize the most important women in their lives without offending them with bad gift choices. Add in divorce, separation, step parents or the loss/out of the picture mom, and you have a whole new level of drama to navigate.
So here are some suggestions to help you avoid the potential emotional minefield trap ahead.
Don’t leave any mom out:
It’s better to cover too many moms than forget them. Snubbing mom because you had a fight, or because she’s your step mom and not your bio-mom, is not okay. Bad manners are not acceptable. Even if it pains you, grit your teeth, and send an e-card at the very least. Pass this message on to your kids and let them learn how to be the bigger person.
Time to Forgive and Forget:
Don’t let old fights fester.
Make a Documentary:
When you are with someone every day, or grow up with someone, the assumption is that you know all of their stories. But I guarantee you don’t know them all. This is a great time to ‘interview’ the Moms in your life and by doing so, you’ll have a keepsake for yourself and/or future generations. This is something that not only makes the storyteller feel loved and valued, but is a keepsake to have forever. One day, you will be glad to have done this.
Get the Unexpected Gift:
This may sound crazy, but what about a month’s car payment (if you can afford it- or a mortgage payment… that is a big one, but no one expects that) On the more reasonable side, consider a membership to a museum or theater group she’s been mentioning. It is a sign that you not only listen, but are purchasing something that can be done as a couple or as a family. While everyone likes a massage or flowers, those don’t last nearly as long as the memories you can make by going and doing things together. (Still get the flowers or the massage.)
For more information and to schedule your free consultation, please call The Law Offices of Steven B. Chroman, P.C., at 661-255-1800 or visit us at www.chromanlaw.com. Mr. Chroman is a Trusted Advisor Award Winner and named Top 100 California Attorney’s with over 20 years of experience and local service. You can purchase Mr. Chroman’s best-selling Divorce Workbook at: www.amazon.com/Preparing-Divorce–considering-separation.
This article was originally published in Santa Clarita Magazine as part of our firm’s mission to make family law information more accessible to the Santa Clarita community. Read the full feature and others at santaclaritamagazine.com.