'D'h and I have split over the holidays and family/close friends know. That's fine - I've just been honest about the reasons (very heavy drinking among others) & I'm very happy about the split. but when it comes to all the people I know through the dc and school, local area etc I don't want to go into details, one for the kids sake I don't want their dads misdemeanours filtering down to them & two because he'll still see them at events etc. I'm a bit worried about 'facing' all these people in September, actually just writing this is helping me sort this in my head. Several acquaintances have spilt in the past few years & it's been a huge talking point in the playground, much fuss made over the supposed wronged party & texts & emails flying about how to help/who's going to make her a pie etc one even made an announcement at Cubs ! I'm shy but on the other hand I don't want to be rude. I don't want sympathies because I'm frickin delighted he's gone but I can't say that can I?! If I said thanks but I'm fine, save your sympathies for the kids' does that sound rude?!