This thread is inspired by another:
My dd turns 8 whilst we are on holiday. We are going to Disneyworld - a huge treat in itself - I realise this. However, there is a special reason for the holiday; my dad almost died last summer and was subsequently diagnosed with cancer (CLL - slow growing, no cure.) He wants to make memories with his grandkids whilst he is healthy so he has paid for our kids to go. We had little movement in the holiday dates due to my dads illness and all 8 adults jobs. Dh and I are paying for ourselves, its cost us a fair bit, but not as much as it should have due to my parents genorosity and, in the circumstances, totally worth it.
Anyway, all along, dd has been totally understanding about the fact that we won't be doing birthday presents in the same way as normal. As far as she is concerned, she is going to Disney world and doesnt care. However, im worried that, on the day, she might feel disappointed when she realises she doesnt have any actual presents. As her present, Ive booked her a princess makeover which is costing $70. Other relatives have kindly offered to give her dollars to spend whilst shes out there. My parents are going to buy her something of her choosing whilst we are away. She is very lucky, a great kid and im sure she will be greatful. But, Im worried her birthday might be a bit flat and lost within the holiday.
What other things can I do to make her birthday special? She isnt going to have a single present except for a card with the makeover thing in. Im just realising this and I feel crap. All the focus had been on saving to make this special because it might be my dads last big holiday. What can I do?
Also, please don't be mean - I don't spoil my kids. Usually £100 on birthday and £200 at Christmas. Usual holidays are a week in a caravan in Cornwall. There is a chance im over thinking but this holiday is a big deal for obvious reasons.