An innocent birthday invite made it clear that I've moved on with my life.
I've been seeing someone for over a year now. Full disclosure, I honestly don't know how I would've survived this year without him. My little one adores him and needless to say, that I'm over the moon.
So here we are planning a small birthday party for my soon to be five year old. In the spirit of good communication and co-parenting, I send The Ex the invite link. I quickly get a response, Wow, so the Dad is a no show on the invite? Eeek! Oops (but not really). Inadvertently, feelings are hurt.
Honestly, it wasn't malicious, but the truth is, I've moved on. That simple. I'm sure he has too. In all fairness, I have no idea how I'll react when he's dating someone that my daughter feels as comfortable with.I'm sure it's going to sting.
The thing is, I'm happy. Finally.
I don't feel bad about the invite because it's where I am in life right now. I'm in the process of setting the foundation to start a new family. I can't and don't feel bad about establishing a new life. This is one of the tough parts of co-parenting that isn't always touched on. What's the answer to watching your ex move on? Seriously, I need answers. I'm sure at some point it will be me getting my panties in a bunch because my name isn't on the invite.
One thing that everyone preaches and it's the hardest to put into practice is to communicate. The Ex and I are pretty open with each other and understand that our decisions are for our mini - not personal. As difficult as it's been, that's always been defined, clarified, and made crystal clear. It makes it all much easier.
I guess the biggest take-away from this hiccup is that it's perfectly fine to seek out and create one's happiness. Shrug.
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