IMO inviting an estranged spouse to their child's b-day party is one thing but what Kevin and his W did was something else. She snuck in his apartment after the kids went to sleep so they could set up all the gifts then she drove home and came back before the kids woke up. It was very orchestrated to look like a "happy, normal family holiday" when it fact it was all a farce.
Kevin was invited to his in-laws home and basically his W told him it was only because his daughter was worried about him being alone on a holiday.
Of course BOTH parents need to be included on special days for children but the sneaking in and out after the kids go to bed to create an illusion and give small children very false hope is cruel.
Once a divorce is finalized and both parents have had time to heal and work on the co-parenting R and the children have adjusted and understood this is how things will be it would not be outlandish to have "family time".
I understand Xmas is about magic and all that but I got a cold chill up my spine for every post I read on these boards where two parents who are separated try and create the illusion of the mommy and daddy for ONE DAY. IMO that is not a healthy way to approach daily life or a holiday.
Thank you for your input. Sorry for the hijack, Kevin. I think I will suggest that the kids choose one of us to go to the amusement park with them.
