But what about the people who are alone at Christmas? They span every age group from teens to seniors but it is a group that never seems to get a look in at this time of year. A bit like the singleton on Valentine’s Day – being alone at Christmas either conjures up pity or disbelief – depending on the root cause! But some people choose to be alone.

A few years ago, finding myself newly divorced and with a lovely but slightly dysfunctional family – I found myself with the prospect of spending Christmas alone. I had a few generous offers, from friends and family alike, to spend Christmas with them. But the truth was I wanted to be in my own home!

I know this may seem strange, but I was coming to terms with being single again and there was some sadness attached to this, so therefore I wanted to be somewhere familiar.

I didn’t want the pressure of living by someone else’s rules, customs and traditions as I was not in the right frame of mind to do so.

So I decided to spend Christmas alone. I was fearful at first as it just didn’t seem right but I came to realise that the only thing I was really battling with was the fact that spending Christmas alone – by choice- is a taboo!

I can honestly say (weird as it may sound) that it was one of the best Christmas days that I have ever had).  I met some friends for drinks on Christmas Eve which I really enjoyed and then set off home for my Christmas Day alone.

It’s not that I want to be alone every year – of course not – but let’s face it, there may be a time when it’s necessary again and now I do not fear it!

The best thing about spending Christmas alone was:

• My own schedule, having a lie in, eating when I wanted and not having to fit around anyone else’s plans
• Eating what I wanted, when I wanted!
• Watching what the hell I liked on Telly and not having to compromise
• Chatting to various people on the phone to hear snippets of their day – and the various moans that went with it!
• Having no-ones mess to clear up but my own

I like spending Christmas with someone special and this year I am -but if you are on your own this year, make the best of it and ENJOY! It’s another thread in life’s rich tapestry!