Support thread? For those of us who are trying to avoid our families this year...

[Flightattendant2]

I wondered if one of these was needed. I might be the only one

I'm not seeing my grandmother because she has really upset me this time and it is always hideous and a terrible atmosphere. Not sure how to get around my parents though...but that is bearable.

Anyone else? And the ultimate question - do you feel guilty about it? (I do)

Why put yourself through the angst of it every year if GM upsets you so much. Lets face it, it is a time to eat drink and be merry, not make yourself miserable.

I avoid SILx3 like the plague, do I feel guilty? Only feel bad for my Mum as she feels compelled to get the whole family together bless her (she hates it too!) so I make sure I see my parents alone with my family and we have a lovely time.

Big family things where everyone is false? No thank you!

Sounds like a good strategy BBF

Yes, the times when I was growing up and everyone just hated each other but still did the whole thing, as though it was the law or something to meet with people you cannot stand.

I never want my children to have that kind of thing forced on them.

Good for you Flight, Christmas Day should be a day when you have fun but not forced fun. It should certainly not be a day that you dread that is for sure. I am sure as a parent you feel you don't get enough time with your kids if you are working etc, why spoil the time you do have?