Secret Santa for Babies - what would you do?

[PigsWiggle]

I have a group of friends all with DC roughly the same age 4-8months. It has been sugeested that we all do a secret santa for them - spend £15.

I really don't want to because I am worried about finding the money to buy all the other Christmas presents I have to buy this year (money is tight whilst on maternity leave).

My DH tells me not to be silly and just join in, and not make myself look mean spirted infront of everyone at Christmas or end up alienating myself from the group. He says £15 isn't exactly going to send us into financial turmoil. I can see his point but still begrudge spending £15 when I've been so careful to budget our money and deprived myself, DH and LO of other treats so we don't get into debt whilst I'm not earning.

If I say I don't want to take part I know I'll feel better but may make the rest of the group feel awkward when they exchange their presents and of course I'll appear very "bah-humbug!"

If I do take part I know I'll feel annoyed about what I could have spent that money on instead but maybe (?) will enjoy giving and receiving pressies with all the other mums with their babies.

I know it is a silly little problem but I really can't decide what I should do - what would you do?

Can you suggest that the budget is £5 per child instead? Would that help? You can blame your DH and say he is insisting on family presents only this year or something.

Chances are you aren't the only one feeling like this in the group, and they will be grateful you've suggested this

yes what about suggest reducing the budget a bit to £5 or £10 then its slightly better, also buy the present online and go thru quidco so you get some back and see if you can get something with voucher codes for 20% off etc?

I've never heard such nonsense.Just say no thanks.As if Christmas isn't stressful and expensive enough.

Thankyou all for your advice. I decided to say "no thanks", I know it resulted in a few raised eyebrows but like maras2 said Christmas comes with enough stress and expense!