Claire -- still here #11...

[KGirl]

I'm also feeling the loss lately of that "built in activity partner" (even though H didn't really like to get out and do things that often - there were many times where he'd say he was already in his sweatpants and didn't want to change his clothes!) - I don't really miss H but I do miss that "partner" aspect of things. You nailed it all in your longer "dropping the rope" post - you've got this! Over the past year I've pushed myself to go out and do things on my own if it's something I really want to do and can't find anyone to go with, instead of just staying home and being resentful, and it's really helped. Re: New Year's, some of my fondest memories as a kid were staying up "late" with my parents, wearing silly hats, throwing confetti, playing with noisemakers, and drinking sparkling juice out of fancy glasses. I bet you and your D could have a really great time at home without going anywhere. I don't know that I have many plans for X-mas week, either, but that doesn't mean that I can't enjoy things on my own (play holiday music, watch as many sappy cheesy holiday movies as possible, bake, enjoy decorations). I'm also thinking about throwing a party for friends and co-workers a little later in December, sort of a post-Xmas party when people are more likely to be around and done with family activities.