I wouldn't go so far as to put up a stocking for W...but you really should put them up for you and the kids. They will all see it as some point this month, and it balances out the unspoken symbol at the house. It would be kind, and I bet S would love getting some decorations for your pad and putting them up. Let him take the lead - bet YOU will have lights in your windows, too! D16, too - you were wondering what kind of activity would draw her in to spend more time with you.....one word - SHOPPING!!! No eating, you don't even have to buy anything! Window shop, stop at a music store and find out what she's listening to, make a mental note of the jewelry and accessories she Oohs over, then surprise her for XMas. It was the one way my Dad found to bond with me, and the driving back and forth (and sometimes getting lost / exploring on purpose) was just as important. Something about the car - sitting next to someone, instead of across, makes it easier to open up about the deeper stuff. No pressure to face someone in the eye...
