One way Xmas gifts and cards...

We received one Christmas letter once from a cousin. It was obnoxiously braggadocious.

Well, yes, that's my point. Besides, I never understood the once a year "catch up" when there was no involvement the year through.

I think I kind of gave the wrong impression.

It isn't that I do not get anything. It is more that...I have decided to eliminate those who are not reciprocating.


As I said earlier I have one brother who sends me gifts throughout the year...they are small...often handmade (either by him or his many artist friends)...and well, he has such a wonderful spirit of generosity...he is very inspiring.

My son always sends a lavish box of beautiful gifts, including handmade. Not a big expensive thing...but put together with great care.

Finally, my childhood friend sends...treasures. And beautiful cards. And I do the same with her.

The biggest Chirstmas elf was my sister...who died three years ago. She was awesome, creative, generous of spirit. I do miss her a lot.

As far as the grinches...I have decided to eliminate them...and that's what this thread was about. Others have shared the opinion that giving should not be based on reciprocity but I guess I just don't agree with this. Especially during a year when my finances are tight.

There’s a commercial on TV now. It shows an isolated, lonely grandpa and he gets in the mail a handmade Christmas card from his grandchild. Then he smiles.

But I’m thinking “Why couldn’t they see him in person?” The commercial upsets me a little.

Wow, I am so glad I don't have television. I am sure ALL the commercials would upset me.

It depends. But if it makes you feel sad, you don't have to keep sending. I'm so sorry to hear abut this.

I always send gifts to my son's girlfriends "of the moment" but they don't always reciprocate.
Except his first girlfriend who was just a great gift giver anyway. This is one case of giving and not caring if I get something in return.


I think this thread was misunderstood.

I am not really that sad. The holiday doesn't mean much to me this year because I have a lot other stuff going on. I feel good about my gift giving and card sending decisions. No big deal. Was just curious about others, really.

I think people have stopped sending out cards because of the expense. I kind of understand that because for me it was a consideration in cutting down. I didn't go to email greetings because it seems cheesy. I used to post Facebook season greetings but don't feel in the mood for social media this year and have grown to hate Facebook. I like cards a lot, though. It was one of my favorite traditions.

I can relate about cards. Enjoying them and choosing to err away from email and fb . Although fb for myself is a necessary evil. Many on my fb will receive regular cards in the mail as it is. I'm waiting on stamps and to sit down and write out these cards. I'm actually a little late on my preferred timetable, but it happens.

Well, I applaud all those still sending out cards and sending heartfelt messages.

My childhood friend and I exchange in-the-mail cards for every single holiday/birthday/in-between. She tried switching to ecards with me but I wasn't having it.

I also have one brother who sends me cards throughout the year.

It's is nice to have the personal touch. So needed in this world...

I feel pretty detached this holiday season. Doing everything in a minimalist way. Got my packages ready to send out and that's about it. I have to get something for the mailman...usually box of chocolates. Living alone I can see the advantage of just not getting caught up. Am happy for Mary Poppins Returns which I plan to go see Christmas afternoon. My ex and son and I always went to the movies on holidays. Some people think it's weird but it is actually my tradition. Sigh...I really miss church and that's why Christmas isn't the same this year but I can't talk about that on PC. My other thread on it was closed. Shame since I think others wanted to talk about that, too.

Two cards now - woohoo! That is now twice as many as last year! hahaha