alone at christmas

Husband was merchant navy and trips were 4 or 5 months away and 2 or 3 home, which often wasn't over Xmas. Two daughters and I entertained gran, sometimes friends or neighbour. But after they went to uni I did do a show for Hospital Radio as was a DJ there, I did a regular one but an Xmas one if alone or husband away. And one year I helped at Crisis at Christmas. So many very nice people there, helpers and clients. With some other tutors from the FE college I worked for we set up computers so the clients could come and use them, helped them think about courses they might like to take and generally helped with whatever we could. |We helped for a week. I think now I'd not be well enough and do have company but if you're able helping others is a good way to spend Christmas.

The first year we were married we lived abroad and hubby had to work. I dreaded being alone. The day before we doing some shopping and the cashier mentioned her husband was working. Before I knew it, hubby invited her to spend the day with me. (He knew her husband). It turned out great. She was good fun and very chatty. We cooked ourselves a roast chicken. Just saying, maybe the op has a friend who could join her.

I spent my first Christmas alone last year, it was fine I just spoilt myself a bit. Watched a nice movie and ate a nice lunch.

I do sympathise and feel fortunate that I’m not in your position. Everyone is different of course but maybe you could ask to join in with one of your ACs gatherings? My father was always included when we spent Christmas with my in laws. 2 years ago we had our Dils sister with us.

this will be my first christmas on my own, i lost my partner earlier this year and just got out of hospital yesterday and i am now recovering from vulvar cancer, my son and other family have invited me but i am happy to be on my own, my parner and i never bothered about christmas, just had a sunday lunch and exchanged cards. i am lucky that i like my own company...lol, do you have any single friends you could get together with? i hope whatever you decide you have a peaceful and enjoyable day.

Big bubbly bath, radio, cocktails, yummy lunch of whatever you have planned, more cocktails. Walk the dog? Or just a long walk wishing everyone a Merry Christmas on the way. TV and bed.

Or you could volunteer somewhere or find a friend who will host you. I’d hate to think a friend of mine was alone at Christmas.

All of the above, plus either start searching the TV channels for some good programmes that you can download now and save
( they often put on old repeats at Christmas) or buy some DVDs now and put by.
Buy yourself something special and don’t forget , Gransnet is still open and plenty of Posters available for a chat.

I think you’re wise to plan your day in advance and make something of your own celebration.

Like many others, I was alone last Christmas as my DH lives in France, two of my children live over 200 miles away (the third is in Australia!) and travel was very restricted. They all rang/Zoomed to share what they were doing, which helped the day along.

Most churches have services on Christmas morning where you’d be made very welcome. After attending mine, I opened a bottle of fizz which lasted for the rest of the day! I bought lovely nibbles (smoked salmon, prawns, olives, etc) for lunch then cooked a turkey crown in the evening. In between, I enjoyed various TV programmes, having planned from the listings what I’d watch.

I hope that helps and perhaps you'll have some kind of family gathering on another day to celebrate. Good luck!

once the Ss had flown the nest. Got up gently and went church. After that I indulged myself in absolutely whatever I fancied be it on the telly or from the fridge, bar or a walk in the park. This was sometimes interspersed with calls or contact from loved ones. Never spent a miserable one yet. Mind you, a generally happy heart helps for starters.

Spent a good few Christmasses on my own I be the

Yes all the above OP and find a feel-good film to watch or one that has a special significance for you. Go for a walk (you don’t mention if you have a dog) and smile at everyone you meet and wish them a happy Christmas if they don’t first!

You won’t be alone in being alone and remember that it’s just one day.

I'm in agreement with BoadiceaJones, pamper yourself, cook in advance if possible, plan ahead.

I'm so sorry to hear this. Do I assume that you are in the US? And if so, you might be having snow and cold? Perfect! Make it a positive. Buy yourself a really beautiful throw or shawl-a real indulgence. Buy it soon and wrap it in all its gorgeousness, then forget that you have it until Opening Day. Buy in all your favourite foods - don't be conventional - you don't HAVE to have turkey. A nice bottle of champagne all to yourself. Pamper yourself with a hot bath, nice hair products, a fluffy new towel. Skype your family if you choose, or wait for them to skype you. Keep upbeat with them.

Alternatively, do you know of anyone on their own, whom you might care to share with?
Do you have a City Mission that serves dinner to the homeless or lonely? Getting involved in cooking and serving Christmas dinner is a really fun thing to do.

Just be kind to yourself, ok?
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