On my own Christmas evening and Boxing Day

[Sunnydays1974]

So I've had a lovely Christmas day with DS and DD including Christmas Dinner but now they have gone to exs until Fri.
Suddenly the house feels quiet, big and cold. Fear I am going to dip, as this time is one year on from raw breakup. Any words to keep my chin up appreciated. Thanks.

Put on a bingeable box set and sit back and enjoy the peace and quiet would be my advice

Hi lovely - I alternate christmasses - this year my boys are with their dad til tomorrow so I’ve done what you’re doing the other way around. It’s not been fun but it’s passed and I’ve kept busy with movies, a walk and some bits of nice food. I’ve read a really good book and had a lovely long bubble bath. And tomorrow morning they’re home - yay!

Be kind to yourself and accept this isn’t easy but it will pass I promise. Huge hug x

Sending solidarity. I've had a few private tears today. The big milestones are hard the first time and impossible not to compare situations with this time last year, memories are hard to ignore on such a day of traditions. Hope you can find peace in your situation even though it might be painful at the moment.

It gets easier, honest! The specific date matters less- getting the Xmas eve/Xmas morning "santa fun" is a bonus, but Christmas is about so much more. I'm not religious, but value the family time and little traditions that develop that might not be what everyone else does. My DS is home tomorrow and we still have gifts to exchange with family (and his gifts from me) so I don't feel like I've missed out on too much, and it'll be my turn next year anyway.

The key is to make plans for yourself on the days they are not with you. Whether its friends/family/a self care day of peace and quiet/hiking/DIY... whatever makes you happy!

Make plans for each day, big or smaller...for the morning, the afternoon, the evening.
Have a long bath, a lie in with a good book, baking, wander the shops, phoning a friend, a long walk, play games online, try a new recipe, sort out some cupboards/drawers, make plans for a holiday or days out, catch up tv, plan your garden for next year, whatever it is you like doing...keep busy but make time for relaxing too.

This. Watch vigil two on the bbc. Six episodes

Pyjamas, hot choc and read a good book. Early night.

It does get easier 💐

Like others have said, be kind to yourself and organise some nice treats. If it were me I would save a good book to read and maybe do some baking from the new recipe book my mom got me. If I was still drinking I would have a glass or two of wine (but not enough to get miserable) - definitely some nice food too! And text some friends - someone might even be free to meet up?

Good luck. It will pass.

I've been alternating Christmas's with my ex for 11 years now. It was really hard at first but now when I am alone Christmas Day I just enjoy the solitude. I got invites but I preferred to be alone. I went for a run with my dog and made myself a nice dinner and had treats. My DDs will be here tomorrow along with other family and friends so tomorrow will be full on.

Agree with what everyone said - it does get easier.