Delayed Xmas

[Qwertyyui]

We have had to delay Xmas with the step kids until tomorrow. (I caught covid then DH did) any ideas how to make it more exciting than 'here's your presents' I was thinking of a treasure hunt but don't want to make them work for gifts that they wouldn't have to work for but as it is new years day the tree is already down (space issues so it had to come down) and we are not getting them for the night so there is no magic waking up to the stocking. We had a lush Xmas eve eve planned for them but obviously we didn't want to risk them catching covid so did the responsible thing and couldn't drop off presents in advance as we were following the 'dont leave the house' rule.

Any ideas would be greatly received!

I personally wouldn't bother with a treasure hunt or similar, especially as you might get stuck doing one every year!

I'd stick with presents, a lovely meal, nice snacks, some festive programming, some games, fairy lights etc, you could also wear Christmassy clothes if you want to keep it feeling festive? I am sure it will feel very special.

Yeah I learned that with making easter and Halloween 'special' during covid and now end up doing puzzles and quizzes and games so maybe you are right!

Il stick some Xmas tunes on for when they come in and maybe get the tree lights back out! Luckily they are past the santa stage so there is no stories we need to make up and we are going over to the PILs for the afternoon. I am gona make them the French toast I promised too. Just feels a little flat for them but then even Christmas day with my DD didn't feel very Christmassy so might just be the joys of the pandemic!

Thank you for your ideas! x

There is a good chance that like many of us they are a bit fatigued with Xmas. I would provide a nice lite meal and let them open presents at their convenience.

Yeah my SD has been stuck in as her mum was isolating and my SS has been very family busy on his side so I am probably over thinking it all. I just worry about them missing out but they had Xmas with their mums so it's not like they have not had anything! I need to just step back and not worry. They have loads of presents and a stocking that will probably be enough excitement ha

Thanks! I for one am glad to see the back of the tree and Xmas in general and normally I love it!

@Qwertyyui

Yeah I learned that with making easter and Halloween 'special' during covid and now end up doing puzzles and quizzes and games so maybe you are right!

Il stick some Xmas tunes on for when they come in and maybe get the tree lights back out! Luckily they are past the santa stage so there is no stories we need to make up and we are going over to the PILs for the afternoon. I am gona make them the French toast I promised too. Just feels a little flat for them but then even Christmas day with my DD didn't feel very Christmassy so might just be the joys of the pandemic!

Thank you for your ideas! x

Same here, started way too many accidental traditions!

Presents and french toast and some music sounds lovely. I hope you have a good day.

Haha it somehow managed to sneak into birthdays too. I am thinking over the next year or so they will grow out of wanting to do stuff. My DD is not bothered by it all and likes low key all the time but is 2-3 years older so I have hope the competitive nature or my DSC die down and with it the need for so much entertainment!

Thank you. I am sure it will be lush. Going to get the dog out early so she is more chill before they come and doesn't open their presents for them in the excitement. Might have to wrap some of her toys to keep her entertained too! x

Your post has made me smile so much. You want to make it special! We have my stepdaughter every other year and since I have none of my own, it's so wonderful when she's here. They will love it whatever you do, I'm sure. X