@*Beth* - Thank you for your kind and encouraging post. Yes, I'm noticing here and on other threads that there are others in the same boat of being alone during the holidays. We think back to holidays when we were with others - family, friends, significant others - and we wish we could have that again.

I'm sorry that missing your mom has brought you tears. My mother passed away unexpectantly when I was 47. She hosted us all at Christmas and always wanted it to be a happy get together. That was so important to her. I'm glad I had such a mother. When a mother is gone, the heart of the family is missing. Sometimes those who remain don't treat each other as well as in former times.

I'm here for anyone who wants to be listened to. We'll all get through the next two weeks together, each in our own way.