Hi Livebythesea.....I'm so sorry about all that you're dealing with, wish I could help. I've spent every holiday for the past 7 years with just my cats, ever since my stepsister decided she did not like me anymore and evidently convinced the rest of the step-family to go along with whatever she told them. As both my Mom and stepfather are dead, I have no kids, husband, etc., my Holidays are primarily just days to get through. Just adding my name to the previous posters, but no....you are certainly not the only one. I hope that some kind of comfort comes your way as soon as possible. Hugs ~whimsy