Im so sorry about your bad experiences at this time of year I can see how that would affect you alot.

I love seeing my kids so excited and having enough of a reason(in my mind) to allow myself to have something nice that isnt a necessity. We also like to go out to see the christmas lights.

Other than that I hate it. The kids are getting older and wanting bigger things "from santa" that we just cant do. Even just getting the presents is stressful because we live in a small town far from any city. My family is messed up and I dread the fact that I might be invited somewhere. I also hate that I usually dont get invited. So I cant win, I hate it either way. When we are around family I end up having a breakdown usually so its not enjoyable for me anymore and I just turn down the invitations but I still wish I was wanted enough to receive one if that makes sense.

Our thanksgiving is over and I just ignored it. My husband took the kids out for supper and brought me some while I was at work and that was perfect. Of course it was annoying having people constantly ask what my plans were and Im sure the same thing will start closer to christmas again.

I suppose I will try a little harder at Christmas but I feel like it is almost too much to handle every year so I will try to keep it minimal.