Conversation with my DSis today re Christmas.

[ChooChooWowWow]

Dsis rang today the conversation went like this:

DS - I got your DD2 a Disney digital camera for Christmas is that ok?.

ME - Brilliant, what do your lot want?

DS - DH would like a blu ray copy of Lock, Stock and Barrel. DS would love the F1 2011 game for his X box they are on offer at Asda at the moment. DD would like some Arcadia vouchers and I would love some new make-up brushes if you don't mind. What about your lot?.

ME - DH would like the Glee Rocky Horror CD (yes I know the saddo). DD1 would like Top Shop vouchers please. DS would love anything Hex Bugs, and I have seen a lovely Cath Kidston bone china cup and saucer in (insert shop name) if you don't mind.

Sorted, quick trip into town tomorrow. No worries about wether anyone likes their gift. Why can't the rest of my family do this

My sister & I always do lists for ourselves, DH's and children & then circulate around the family. She is the list keeper for me & vice versa & then everyone else updates us on what they have bought. It takes a little of the surprise out of Christmas but makes it so much easier for us all re shopping & you know that everyone will like their presents!

Secret Santa in my family (excluding dc but there are only 3 of them and 2 are mine).

Dh does his family. Sorted.

we do this too- all make lists for our own families and so when people ask we 'dish' the presents out - i think its the best thing all round - especially when financially, things are tighter this year - it means you can get something you actually need/want. We do all only buy parents and not brothers and sisters - just their kids. We spend more on brothers and sisters at birthdays and leave xmas for the kids and grandparents (to thank for minding them throughout the year etc)

We do this too. I know how it sounds but I personally feel sad when people have spent hard earned cash on me and the gift is not something that I can use, really want or possibly even like.

Money is tight, people are busy, why not treat each other to what we really would like?

Amazon gift lists here. Kept updated and full and then what you get still has the element of surprise.

Much easier