to not answer the door to carol singers tonight?

[mudpuddle]

I really do love christmas and all the build up to it. I live in a village and there are usually lots of nice things going on. One of which is the annual carol-singing around the village- which collects for charity. However, last night DC was poorly during the night and we are all shattered today. I think we will all be ready for an early night and certainly wouldn't want dc woken. Singers normally get to our house around 9pm- it is quite a big affair, would be customary to offer them a drink/refreshments etc and to listen for a good 10 minutes or so. We would leave out a donation to the charity, but is it rude to leave a sign on the door asking them not to call? Especially as cars will be there so obvious we are in?

Not rude. But rather than simply leave a note on the door, can you phone one of the choir members and let them know in advance? That way, they won't waste their time (or disturb you).

You could even arrange an alternate way of making a donation - if you so desired.

Oh good god I'm glad we don't have that kind of thing here, I wouldn't be able to keep a straight face

Ahh good idea. Could probably find out a phone number or maybe pop over to a neighbour to ask them to relay message before they head over to ours. Didn't think of that.

Refreshments?! Where do you live?

not rude at all, esp with a donation. If you say on your sign "sick child trying to sleep" they are unlikely to ring anyway.

Sydneyla, it can get a bit awkward- a bit like maintaining that camera-smile for a photo whilst stood on your doorstep.. but I do admire them for doing it.

I'm picturing tudor houses covered in snow with old victorian lamps stood flickering along the streets

Mudpuddle, that's what I was thinking, it's bad enough standing smiling for a few seconds whilst the local kids sing a verse from "We wish you a merry christmas" - couldn't imagine doing it for 10 minutes!!

xmasshould be fun- I know, I think offering them something to eat or drink has just evolved but certain neighbours go the whole hog and have freshly warmed mince pies/mulled wine etc. I would probably have just offered round a box of chocs!

They do take it quite seriously, and it is about 15/20 people so not quiet either...

It sounds quite nice actually :) I just know what I'm like for laughing at inappropriate moments and that would definitely set me off!

If you don't think it would be taken e.t.c, maybe you could leave an envelope on door saying sorry please don't call or something but here is a donation and leave a fiver in it or something? (not sure how much you normally give?
I do carol singing and wouldn't mind a note or something telling us not to call
Hope your dd is feeling better now

blaaahh, don't think it would be taken- you never know I guess, but I'd certainly risk it. Yes, dd better but I think we'll all be ready for bed by 7 tonight!

switch off the lights & make sure the house is in darkness.