Iam64
Namsnanny, I’ve heard the things you feel expressed many times. People ask how many children you had, then ask what they’re all doing now. It can be easier to reduce the numbers so avoid talking about sensitive, very personal things with a stranger.
We tend to just brush over it, and say everyone is doing ok thanks.
If we go out, we don't want to sit talking estrangement anyway, so easier to avoid it.
Luckily, most of our friends were, originally, my friends from way back, so they generally only ask after my two.
And, as they are still in touch with my kids on social media, there's not much they don't know anyway,?