Okay, I feel like I'm wallowing in it right now.
Christmas for me is difficult. Daughter and twin grandsons are overseas, and so the other relatives seem to treat me like a "fifth wheel." I got expensive presents for everyone whom I visited over the holidays. I realize I probably over-do in this regard. Christmas Eve with my one and only sister and her family: I brought nice presents for my sis, her husband, the two daughters and their families.
When we were opening presents, my sister came into the room, plopped down two unwrapped boxes and said, "this is your present from last year."
Everyone laughed (lot of people there), and I did too, but it was hurtful to me. (I was sick with the flu the Christmas before.) I'm trying to dismiss this and move on. But it is a reminder of all the time we were growing up together. Sister had birthday parties and presents; I never did. Sister would exclude me from socializing with friends in our tiny coal camp house, slamming the door in my face. I really don't know what she was thinking! Must not "wallow," but move on.
Patty