Is There a Guide for Midlife Holidays? Asking for Me.

I thought dating would simplify as an empty nester. Instead, it’s brought new challenges: how do I juggle my kids, boyfriend, and ex during the holidays?

A few years ago, my ex and I, long broken up, hosted Thanksgiving for his parents, my dad, a few friends, and our kids. It was one year post-pandemic, five years since we split, and just before my 42nd birthday.

I mention one year post-pandemic because you may remember this was a time of social awkwardness that could only be made worse by the usual holid…