So what are you doing differently next year?

[GirlInterrupted]

Christmas was very quiet here, DH recovering from op, DS (20) had a stomach bug and both were in bed all day yesterday. I think next Christmas I want to go away, maybe some place warm.

I'm not spending it entirely with DPs family, it's too much and I miss my lot.

I want cushions and a wreath. Which have been on my list for years, but never get round to them.

I’m going to decline secret Santa with DH’s family. Everyone asks for vouchers or cash. Everyone gets the cash or vouchers to the budget wrapped up nicely or with a box of chocs for £1 to make it look nice. The last 3 years I’ve ended up with BIL and it’s literally £50 in an envelope. I feel like a lemon when everyone else has a lovely looking parcel to open. Plus I wouldn’t have to make an appearance at their house if I don’t have a present to collect.

I specified a limit on the amount of gifts for the kids, 1 toy, 1 book/box set of books and 1 item is clothing. My Uncle and MIL stuck to this well (it’s about reducing their spend as well as volume as they both spend a fortune they can ill afford). My DM was a different matter. A massive bag of crap was handed over and I was called ungrateful when I looked horrified. Apparently she spent the same on all of them! Plus they had bags of party filler type stuff for my dads birthday.

I’d also like a moratorium on selection boxes. I’d really like my uncle to stop buying for me and DH but that’s a work in progress! Plus he always buys me and my SiL a bottle of Baileys and none of us like it!

I’d like my mum, dad and Uncle to come to us, but apparently a half an hour drive is too much 😐

I was thinking yesterday that Christmas seems to be a lot of waste, wasted food, gift wrapping waste, wasted giftsets and drink nobody wants. I would love to go to a place where I can help and make a difference. Some animal shelter or something similar

Not have COVID in the house so we can visit relatives.

We're spending next Christmas with my side of the family rather than the in laws.
This year was my baby's first Christmas and we were pressured into staying at in laws on Christmas eve (we live 15 mins away so wholly unnecessary) when baby doesn't settle so I was awake most of the night resettling them while everyone else slept.
Next year we can have Christmas eve at home and open a few gifts then go to my parents for more presents and lunch. It already seems far less stressful to me! I can't wait

Hopefully not have Covid was really hoping to be able to travel up to see my family for a big Christmas all together after not being able to last year but ds1 came down with Covid on 22nd and then has also given it to me.