List
My friend suggested writing a list of all the things I need to do. I am a great fan of these and can’t believe that I haven’t already done so.
I mentioned in a previous blog, all the things coming up for me between now and Christmas. It is not just this list, but there are Christmas presents too. With a big family, there are more presents to buy. Usually, I have these sorted well and truly by now, but this year, without the personal present that I normally make, I haven’t given them much thought. I started out on my list. I could get this for that one and that for this one. I crossed my first suggestions out. No, I could get this instead. In some ways, thinking about what I might buy, before I actually go to town, is a good idea because it saves me buying something, only to find an even better option later on. There are lots of markets happening in our community now and these are a great place to find presents too. I need to visit each one between now and Christmas, just to see what is available. There is someone who makes Christmas cakes and she has advertised that she will be at the market this Saturday. I think a couple of these would make good presents. Two of my kids love their fishing, so an expensive lure could be well-appreciated too, one that they wouldn’t buy for themselves. Whilst I have already sent a parcel to my grandchildren on the Gold Coast, I didn’t include anything for my daughter. I think money would be helpful for her, to put towards their Christmas lunch. My son is visiting from the Gold Coast with his girlfriend, whom I haven’t met. Buying for these two will be slightly more difficult, because anything I do get, will have to fit into their suitcases for their return journey and as I haven’t met the girlfriend, it will be a bit of a guess, as to her tastes. There are a couple of daughters-in-law too. What shall I get them? The grandchildren will be easy to buy for; toys and clothes.
And of course, there is Stephen. He inconveniently has his birthday, January 4th so that is double buying, trying to think of two presents for him. I think I have some ideas, but won’t mention them here as he often glances over my shoulder as I am writing.
My brother generously gives me money each year to buy something for the family, so the kids get a couple of presents. I use his money for the adults, to help towards our Christmas lunch. With the rising costof food, this will be helpful. And especially this year, as Rosie has suggested we celebrate our Christmas on the 24th as she and Levi are travelling down south. We will have to do something Christmas day too, so that will be a double celebration.
But I feel so fortunate that I will be with family on this special day. It will make any stress beforehand, worth it.