Only Child.

I loved being an only child when I was young but now I would love to have brothers and/or sisters.

I now enjoy living on my own but it would be lovely to have contact with a sister or brother. I have no living relatives in this country- my cousins are in Ireland (my mother was Irish).

I am an only child, as was my mother. I have watched my three children growing up and forming the very strong relationships that they have, and have sometimes envied them, though it is lovely to see and hear the chat and the banter when they are all together. (All in mid to late 40s)

Now that they are grown up, married and with children, I'm not bothered about my onliness, because I have them. And, since we moved, I can go shopping, out for a drink with DD. I am very lucky, I know.

I agree about envying friends who have sisters. It would have been great too during times of stress to have a sister to talk to.

When my mum was in hospital (years ago now) the nursing staff kept asking me if I had a sister or brother to help out.

I know that sisters and brothers do fall out and friends tell me I have an unrealistic view of sisters but then they say "they are meeting their sister for coffee etc., or visiting them over Christmas.

I do have a brother but although we live in the same town we only see each other once maybe twice a year. We have never been close and I would not look to him for help or support.

I would have loved to have a sister and envy my friends relationships with their sisters.

I empathise

I am also alone. I was widowed 3 years ago and we had no children. My immediate family (mother, brother and his family) all live in Australia. My DH's family are very supportive but I don't feel able to tell them if I am feeling down. It is difficult and I do get times when I get depressed, I was unwell a few weeks ago and stayed in bed for a couple of days and felt that no-one would notice if I had died!!!

I too always wanted a sister, as you say friends are great but its not the same.

I know its hard but try to remain positive and enjoy Christmas with your GC.