Christmas! Where shall I start. I know it is only October but already the chilren's tv programmes are showing adverts for children's toys (or do they show them all year round and I have just not noticed) and the supermarkets have got christmas cards, wrapping paper, christmas puddings in already.
Don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore Christmas (especially the build-up - christmas tree and decorations up, warm cosy nights in when it is raining outside (although I wish it were snowing instead) although this will be my first on my own with 3 children.
My daughter, whose birthday is at the end of November, is already writing her birthday list but I just can't show any interest as Christmas is only 3 weeks after her birthday and I can't even get round to thinking about Christmas.
Christmas presents - this year I am going to be really mean. Because I am now a single parent after husband left me (actually only moved out 3 weeks ago after deciding we were separating 7 months ago), I just cannot afford to go over the top.
I always to always try and buy my children what they really wanted for Christmas but then I used to go shopping and see other things that I thought they would like and buy it for them although it wasn't on their list.
Well, this year, it has to come to a stop! I am going to buy each of my children one main present (son wants Gameboy Advance) and then 3 or 4 small presents (he likes puzzles, books, games) and that will be it. Once I have got everything I will not buy anything else just to make sure they have lots to open. As long as they get the one present they really want they are happy. Why is it I feel I have to give them so much when I also complain that I feel Christmas has got too commercialised and over the top.
What are your thoughts on Christmas, present buying, etc.