Christine, Thanks for this very helpful article. I think that overall our extended family was more helpful than not after our daughter's death. There were times, though , when inexplicably we were not invited to celebrations. We decided to take matter into our own hands and for a few years went overseas at Christmas time. Our daughter had died on December 28th, and Christmas was very difficult. Going overseas was the perfect answer: different surroundings, and no emotional triggers. After several years we have started to have Christmas at home as we now have new grandchildren and even great grandchildren, and feel we are comfortable enough to enjoy Christmas again, sincerely Vera
|