Welcome to 2026, the year we swore we'd finally get our acts together—or at least not embarrass our kids too much. And yes, that’s still my main life goal: maximum embarrassment, minimum therapy bills. If you're new here, I’m your friendly divorce recovery advocate, podcast host, and the guy who thinks “grace” should come with a warning label (and maybe a phone number).So, how did your first post-divorce holiday go? Did you nail it with Pinterest-level decorations? Or did you, like me, spend half the week wondering if it was Friday or just a very aggressive Tuesday? Listen, after divorce, the holidays are less “It’s a Wonderful Life” and more “Who Moved My Cheese—and Why Is There Red Wine On My Carpet?”
True story: we had our annual family shindig, and my buddy Kyle showed up two hours early, threw $50 on the table, and dove into the White Elephant gift exchange like it was the Hunger Games. (Note to self: next year, send Kyle an invite with a clock emoji.) Things escalated quickly—someone spilled red wine on the white carpet. Moral of the story: never trust a grown man with a glass of merlot and questionable balance.
But honestly, holidays after divorce can feel like you’re herding cats while juggling flaming swords—especially if you’ve got kids, exes, step-kids, and bonus family members all on different schedules. One minute you’re opening presents, the next you’re negotiating visitation times like you’re at a UN peace summit. My advice? Bend like a reed in the wind. Or, if you’re like me, just plan a vacation next year and let people sort themselves out.
Here's the real talk: however you got through the holidays, you did it. Maybe you hid in the bathroom reading your book, maybe you did the bare minimum, maybe you even told off your ex’s new in-laws. (Oops. If so, maybe a quick apology is in order—blame it on the schnapps.) The point is, you survived. You don’t have to do it perfectly. Give yourself grace. And if grace is a hottie, call her up!
As men over 40 (and anyone else on this wild ride), we’re learning that it’s okay to set boundaries. It’s okay to say no. No is a complete sentence—take that, Mike Drop! Communicate what you need, even if it’s just, “I need a nap.” Be intentional with your time, and don’t let old baggage run your new life. Remember, healing happens when you take care of yourself, speak up, and let go of trying to control everyone else’s happiness.
So, here’s to a new year where we worry less about who’s coming over and more about who we’re becoming. And if you see Kyle, remind him: white wine only. Happy New Year, my friends—let’s keep healing, laughing, and living life on our own terms!