I can totally see that, OP. I give thanks every Thanksgiving that I am no longer in law school, dreading the exams that happened just after the holiday. I loathed that so much I am still legit joyful almost 30 years later. I’m sure that divorce is awful in many ways but (unlike law school) great in many ways too. I hope that every Thanksgiving going forward you are able to have grateful thoughts about the family you treasure.

Want a prize?

OP, I am in the process of divorce right now, and I am sooo glad I don't have to deal with the inlaws anymore! I'm happily planning the holidays I want with my kids and family!

OK.

I've been divorced for about a year now and have gotten little communication from my former in-laws (two siblings and their families, mother and father in law). I left lines of communication clearly open because I want my two children (who are with me all but 2-3 weeks out of the year) to have good communication with their cousins.

Throughout the 16 year marriage, I felt I put slightly more effort into maintaining these extended family relationships than any of the in-laws did. Definitely 99% more than my ex did. I always a bit badly that I didn't do more and build a stronger extended family network for my kids but at the end of the day didn't feel it was right to put in so much more than my ex did so focused mainly on my own family.

I am so glad I did now! Just a thought of the day for anyone debating holiday travel and in-law visit plans right now.