Christmas Eve for single parents

[Muddlewitch]

If you are a single parent, can I ask what you do on Christmas Eve?

I have been single for a few years now so should be used to it, but I still find I get sad on Christmas Eve once the kids are in bed. There is no one to share the magic and do the last minute toy building and stocking stuffing with, and everyone one else is with their loved ones. I love Christmas Eve daytime but come the evening I start thinking about things far too much and usually go to bed upset.

I know I sound pathetic, but I wondered if anyone else was in a similar position or has found a way to make it special even if you are on your own.

When ds is in bed I sit on the living room floor,in front of the fire, and wrap the presents while watching christmassy films and programs on TV. I'm used to it and it's fine.

It's Christmas night itself that's more difficult for me, although I'm used to that too, but you just know most people are with others and enjoying themselves, hardly anyone is online and when they are they're listing off and posting pics of their presents, and you're sat on your todd and with nobody to share any of the Christmas magic you've had. It is officially the most boring and depressing night of the year by far!