Totally indulgent I know but I’m sad about the situation I find myself in but realise it’s likely a drop in the ocean to what others are going through.
For context, am married, we have 2 pre schoolers who both have presumed asthma (both on long term medication and regularly suffer coughs/wheezy episodes needing inhalers) I’m not working as looking after kids and we just about manage on our income. We moved this year because we had no choice and that wiped out our savings plus where we live now is all electric with no useable heating so we’re relying on portable radiators to take the chill off rooms as necessary. Currently the house is around 16c during the day but outside is still in low to mid teens temperature wise. Am worried about what will happen when we absolutely must have heating on as I really
don't think we can afford it but can’t let house get too cold as mould or excessive damp could make DCs very unwell (not to mention the damage it would do to landlord’s property).
Christmas this year is going to be a lean affair; we’ve got a few bits for DCs and and they will have presents from other relatives. Had a conversation recently with a close relative who said not to buy for them just children as they know things are tight. We have DH parents, another 2 siblings, and his adult DC plus grandchildren still to buy for.
We've had to say no presents for each other this year as we just can’t stretch that far. Add to that that DH is not sentimental about such things and so I know there won’t be any surprise gifts under the tree for me. I just can’t help being incredibly sad knowing that I’ll have nothing at Christmas. I love Christmas and giving gifts is something that gives me such pleasure so I feel sad knowing it’s going to be different this year.
Yes I do know this is life as an adult and difficult times mean making sacrifices but it doesn’t make it any easier!