Back again

Sunshine_girl2

Enjoyed a quiet Christmas surrounded by family , just how I like it. Have been on a big walk Boxing Day to a local big park. Yesterday DGD and I went to RHS for breakfast and a lovely walk in the mist that has been hanging around. We also went to the local big shopping centre Boxing Day night which was still terribly busy but parking was very easy at the supermarket. She got what she wanted and we were out within the hour. Today I have met up with my dear friend at a lovely garden centre for lunch. 

For Christmas my son bought me a new suitcase and an air tag to put in it , he knows me well . 

Having a quiet day at home tomorrow, I am now off work until 13th Jan . 

Hope everyone had a good Christmas and here's to 2025. 

milann

That’s a nice long break. Best way to bring in the new year 👏It sounds as if you had a lovely Christmas 

Sunshine_girl2

milann said:

That’s a nice long break. Best way to bring in the new year 👏It sounds as if you had a lovely Christmas 

Thank you , I did enjoy it . 

Sunshine_girl2

Some things that have been on my mind. My negative friend , I said I would contact her in the New Year . I really am at a loss of how to say that I don't want lots of texts every day but would rather speak to her on the phone once a week. 

My sister in law didn't get any presents this year for my family apart from my parents , nor did she give any birthday money to my DD and DGD. She puts this down to her mother passing away in February. I am now thinking that this might be a good time to suggest no more buying Christmas presents for her and her family and obviously no more for mine . 

Plus i also have another friend who never contacts me I have to contact her but am honestly fed up with this , she has a big birthday coming up in August I think I am not going to bother . 

Just thought putting it down here might make me think more clearly. 

milann

I definitely think it’s the right opportunity to stop buying presents with your SIL. She might be pleased you’ve suggested it. As for the negative friend ….why not say that you’re  spending less time on your devices….phones etc so will only be answering once a week or so?
Maybe just a card for the big birthday? 

I cut back big time a couple of years ago…I’ve not regretted it at all. 

amber03

Agree totally what Milann said, I’ve cut down on the number of presents i buy at Xmas and this year didn’t send out any cards, been thinking about this for the last few years and this year decided to do it as I’m fed up with people pleasing.

As for yours friends especially the one that has a big birthday this year, I wouldn’t bother. It will be interesting if nearer the date they try and get in touch with u. Start doing what you want and don’t worry about others.x

Seasidegal58

I agree with @milann and @amber03. 

Re negative friend - yes - you could say that one of your NY resolutions is  2025 digital detox and you're cutting down on texts and WhatsApps.  You could point out to her that a weekly phone call is so much nicer and easier as you can actually speak (wow!) and have a proper conversation rather than sitting there bashing out bits on a phone!
Your SIL sounds like she actually wants to cut down on the present giving but unfortunately hasn't really gone about it the right way. I think perhaps broach the subject with her in a non-confrontational way and say you think it will be a good idea for all concerned if things are left on a purely Christmas/birthday card sending basis. 

And as for the friend who never bothers - yes, send a card for the Big Birthday but leave it at that. 

As amber says, don't worry about it. You'll save yourself some cash too and can spend it on your own family. 

Sunshine_girl2

Thank you @milann@amber03@seasidegal58 I think I agree. 

Had a lovely day with 3 DGC , it's hard work on your own but I wouldn't not do it. Making memories before they are teenagers 😂. 

I don't do a list of things I've accomplished in the year , but I must say 2024 has been a good year .

Happy New Year to all. 

Sunshine_girl2

Sister in law has said fine to no presents from me , but wants to continue buying for my family. I won't be changing my stance now . 

Sunshine_girl2

Well the snow arrived a few inches , it's raining now so hopefully will melt some as expecting more overnight. Took DGD to a birthday party this morning, the main roads were okish , the motorway was better. Where the party was is a big out of town shopping place , they had a snow plough clearing the car parks which was a big help. 

Back home have caught up with the washing, made a nice stir fry that will last two meals. Also made celery soup , enough for 4 lunches . Just need to update my diary for this week., I am not in work until the 13th which I am rather happy about. 

Off to get sorted out now ready for Call The Midwife.n