Hats off to you and your STBX for maintaining a cordial relationship and being able to be in the same house together for the sake of your girls at special times. This would not be possible with a live-in OP as many of us had to deal with. My ex was living with his OW within a month of me learning there was something wrong. She has not been a part of our lives and my children choose to keep it that way.
I bought my kids a new ornament every year until recently (youngest is 21). They have their own set of ornaments for when they start their own family traditions. At this point - 2 still live at home and the other will be home for the holidays. He is lucky to have time off from both of his Toronto jobs.
New traditions replace old ones in time and adjustments have to be made. Nice that you were able to get such a good deal on your new decorations. I love Canadian Tire. I can see one from my house! Nice to be able to walk there.
My kids all went out with their dad on Saturday for lunch and gifts. He will probably not even call them on Christmas. Even after 8 years my 17 year old son says "Mom, I can't really talk to Dad. He just makes me feel depressed. He doesn't even know me anymore". So not all is well with their relationship but happily - ours is good and close and my 2 youngest are still very close despite the fact that he is 6 years older and lives away from home.
OK, off to gitter dun! Best wishes for a great holiday.
