To want to tell a friend not to buy anything for us this Christmas

[phantomhairpuller]

Because that way, I don't have to buy anything back!
I've told her that this Christmas is going to be tight for us for many reasons, so we were only going to buy for immediate family, and even then, only something small.
She's just text me asking what she can buy for [miniphantom] for Christmas. I feel like a right Scrooge because what I really want to text back is 'nothing, that way I don't have to buy for your DD'
Because I can't afford it!! They're kids, they'll get tonnes of stuff anyway!
Shall I tell her what I really think (in a nice way obviously) or shall I just keep my Scroogey mouth shut and play the game?!

Tell her what you really think! My friend sent me a text saying 'let's not do presents' recently. I was quite pleased as we are skint too!

Have you bought all of miniphantoms presents yet? Could you just tell her to get one of the things you were intending to get for miniphantom and spend the money you saved buying something for her dd?

She might be relieved if you bring up stopping this present swap. I've only recently stopped sending presents for my friends children - it really had very little to do with money. It just became silly on many levels (DC getting far too many presents etc).
The fact that she is asking you what they want is perfect - clearly hasn't bought anything yet. I would text back and ask if she has time for you to call her and then suggest stopping the present swapping - I would be inclined not to mention money though.

Just tell her! a few years ago I just had to tell some of my friends I wasn't able to buy for them any more and they stopped too. It was a relief tbh.