To buck the trend

[Oodlesandoodlesofnoodles]

Inevitably Mumsnet will mostly be full of people disappointed that their DH got them crappy presents this year. Let me redress the balance.

I am Scrooge. I realise I bought a small amount of dull, boring practical gifts this year. DH pretended to like them. He got me a larger selection of sweet, thoughtful gifts. He has put some thought in and tried to cater for my interests. My gifts to him could be for any man aged 18-70.

We buy each other’s gifts from our personal spending allowance (each get the same amount).

Also cringing I got the kids some really dull stuff as well like pants and socks in their stockings.

I suddenly realise how grumpy, moany and generally tight I have been the last few months. Giving him a hard time when actually he’s really trying. We have young kids. We’re both exhausted. Finances are tight.

I feel awkward and ashamed. I know there will be so many women experiencing the opposite this morning so just wanted to add this for balance. Hi. Crappy, fun sponge Mum and wife here. Merry Christmas!

Give yourself a break and enjoy the day. Nowt wrong with a little shopping experience post Xmas day if you can afford it. Make the day lovely with hugs and jokes and games. Tell you DH you appreciate him and his gifts. You can rescue the day but if you spend it beating yourself up that won't happen.

I'm sure someone will be along soon to point out it was all your dhs fault anyway

I got new slippers this morning. Not particularly fun, expensive etc but I needed them so I'm happy

I think it's OK to fuck up sometimes, if you acknowledged it and put it right.

If you ignore it, or don't fix it then yes, you will be just like the men PP complain about. What about a fun experience or treat booked for Jan? Something to look forward to! Sounds like your DH is thoughtful, so I'm sure he's understanding too.

Give your DH a warm hug and tell him how much he means to you. Gifts are just stuff.