Being a separated parent facing Christmas without your children is devastating...
If you're a parent facing your first Christmas [or maybe your second or third Christmas] without your children because it's not your turn to have them than I can assure you it is an extremely difficult "place" to be. I remember when this happened when I divorced and my heart goes out to anyone going through this.
As it's National Agony Aunt Day [the last one of 2012] I've answered one father's e-mail about this - if you're in this situation, whether you're a mother or father, do check out it out on my homepage at the dilemma of the week.
TODAY’S TIP: one thing you definitely must do is make sure your children feel secure who's ever home they're staying at. You will cope with your heartache at your first Christmas without them - you're the adult in this situation - and put all your energies into ensuring they're feeling loved them that's the best you can do.
Remind yourself that is your job as their parent and you will be okay and they will be okay!
Take care of yourself, Pamx