A loved one’s long-term absence makes life complicated enough, so don’t set your sights on overly ambitious goals during your partner’s absence. For example, if you and your spouse normally take the kids on an annual vacation and you want to keep the tradition going for the children’s sake, zero in on a spot within driving distance close to home, rather than one that would require passports, flights, and guidebooks. A stressed-out single parent is no fun for anyone.