DEAR ANNIE: My 18-year-old son is spending a gap year abroad. Our family celebrates Christmas, and this year my husband, our two other children and I have decided to join him.

Here’s the problem: We’re only arriving the evening of Dec. 25. My son says he doesn’t have a problem spending Christmas Eve by himself, but I can’t help but feel he’ll be lonely on this special night. None of his friends will be staying locally.

My husband and I do have some friends in this city, but I don’t know how to go about getting him invited to their Christmas Eve plans without imposing or making people feel obligated.

Any suggestions? -- Empty Nest Mama

DEAR EMPTY NEST MAMA: You sound like a loving mother who raised a brave, independent young man -- and that’s exactly why he’ll be just fine on Christmas

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