Thank you everyone for the words you've said. You get to the stage sometimes when you start to think "Maybe it is me - maybe I am poisoning their minds", so it's good to hear opinions from others. It's certainly grounded me hearing from you all.

I have got working tax and child tax credits, as well as child benefit. I had to sort that stuff out when he first left in September, but thank you anyway.

Nisgal - I really liked your suggestion to keep smiling....sounds like a plan!!!