My friends don’t make any effort with me now they have kids – why aren’t they interested in my child-free life? - DEAR VIX: The Independent’s agony aunt Victoria Richards is here to help. Email ...

I've been a mom for nearly 20 years. I have six kids, ranging in age from a teenager down to a 1-year-old. I've homeschooled. I've worked. I've done it all with and without a support system.

I bought my nearly 3-year-old a daddy doll to help her cope when her father is deployed. I sometimes sneak a hug from it, too, when I'm feeling low. Essay by Lauren Salles Gumpert ...