I have a small family (mum and stepdad live locally, see them a couple of times a month). Two or three cousins a few hours drive away that I see once in every few years.
A small circle of close friends- I know they would support me in an emergency, as I would them. I might see one or more of them once a month, unless we bump into each other at kids events.
Three dc aged 18 15 and 9, split from their dad 7 years ago.
I work full time and I’m exhausted at the moment and feel so very lonely. I’ve managed to be positive and pretty good (I hope) at being a single parent for the last 7 years but at the moment it’s overwhelming. I desperately want some human connection that’s just for me, for someone to get me- someone to think I’m slightly cute for wanting a fancy sweet jar for the Xmas chocs or for me to buy their favourite coffee when I see it on offer. Someone to be nice to and someone to be nice to me.
I’ve always loved Christmas but not this year, I’m really dreading it.