Thanks for your support, it's really appreciated. Had a rotten night's sleep, not helped by an owl outside around 3am, lol!

Am looking at getting away for a few days over Christmas, trying to find a good deal. Not easy when there's only one of you. Don't particularly want a hotel, as just need to escape.

Have been tearful at various times during the day. Sad to reflect that I've a manipulative mother, who openly favours my brother because he doesn't answer back.

One decision I've made is to no longer cover up her actions. If she complains about my aunt's attitude then I'll tell her. Not taking the rap for someone else's behaviour just because my mother can't/won't deal with it herself. I'm also going to tell my brother what she's said about him.