It seems like there's so much emphasis on being happy with the holidays and being with family. For so many, getting together with family is stressful. I read all kinds of articles about it, but it seems like I'm the only one who would dread being with family. I hear so many people at work telling me what a great time they're going to have being with family. I wonder if it's really like that?

I personally always liked Thanksgiving. I enjoyed it when I was with my family in the past. My family has dissolved as of now and that's too bad. I have enjoyed Thanksgiving just being by myself, although by the time I eat, I feel a sense of emptiness. I have spent some Thanksgivings with other families and I hated it. Never again!

Christmas is hard for me. It was hard for me being with my family and even harder being alone.

I never had to deal with in-laws so I wouldn't know what that would be like.