Its Over Thank God - Who else feels like this

Don't know about actual Easter eggs, but the little creme eggs and mini eggs have already appeared! Saw them before xmas.

What a depressing thread- mitigated only by those who, like me are perfectly happy with how things have gone/are going, loved seeing their family, ate and drank with pleasure (nobody forces anybody to overindulge!) and have long since grown out of expecting piles of presents!
I refuse to be brought down by those who may well have been prepping since Nov 1 ( no wonder they have had enough)
To every thing there is a season we should enjoy what we can when we can.
8 years ago I desperately wanted to have D2 , SIL and their new baby over Christmas but as her MIL had already been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s I could see they would want to make memories too. So the obvious answer was to have them to us too-so both sets of grandparents could enjoy the wee man.
What I didn’t know then was that that was to be DH’s last Christmas, he died 11 months later so I am the one with the happy memories!
I know some people may well have found it hard to maintaina smile, for whatever reason and will be glad to be back to “normal”, but carpe diem and all that- I am reminded we never know when it may be our last!

PS Easter eggs will no doubt be in the shops any day now!

Oreo

It’s a bit sad that so many want their Christmas festivities to just be over as quick as possible.

I agree. Why wish your life away?

The rich eating part of it has finally defeated me, though I've still got room for a bit more drinking to see in the new year.
The family part went without a hitch, a new little arrival, adding a different happy dimension.
The dogs didn't steal anything this year. We usually lose a few chipoltas or roast potatoes, but this year we rigged up a barricade to keep them in one area while the food was out.
The presents and cards were all very thoughtful, and will be treasured for the next year or longer.
TV not bad at all.
The only poor show was Plymouth Argyle losing 4 - 0 to Coventry on Boxing Day, but life will go on - unless you're Mr. W. Rooney.

Always look on the bright side.
I'd be happy for the Christmas feel to last forever, but then of course it wouldn't be so special!

Nanato3

I'm glad it's over too. After all the stress of choosing and buying presents for my family I never received one gift back !! Feel so hurt . I've suffered with very poor health for the last 3 years , spend a lot of time in bed .
I won't be bothering next year if I'm still here !

Communication is the key. Have a talk with the family in January. " What are we doing about gifts next Christmas?" Either you all give and receive, or you have a Secret Santa, or just give to the kids. Make sure everyone understands. Then on the day, you will not be disappointed.

Cheer

Iam64

We are of course all different. Some of us are having especially difficult times. This is my third Christmas without my husband, he died in October 2022 so close to Christmas. It’s not as raw, but I still miss him with every atom. Hosting this year was a big thing for me. I’m sitting with my dogs, fire lit, lights on my real tree and dotted around the house to bring Cher. I’ve walked those dogs and cleared up. Cooked my meal from left overs, and looking forward to using the ends of the turkey in either a flan or more likely pasta tomorrow when one daughter and her children come
I recognise this season can be really tough. I’m not immune to feeling the negatives,
I’m curious about thanking God it’s over when I reflect on why Christians celebratev

Just what I was thinking, tho where Cher comes into it is a mystery😁
Always nice to have a few lights and candles isn’t it to brighten up the dark evenings.

Yesterday was mostly lovely, we saw most of the GCs and some of the ACs. Had a lovely lunch with DD, her DH and our GCs along with her MIL, SisIL and her DP which was very relaxed and a lot of fun with GCs playing with new toys.
Later we were having a nice chilled evening at home when DHs son came home (he's here to see his DCs having emigrated two years ago) - he threw a complete tantrum over an innocent comment and stormed off saying he was an adult to which we both responded - act like one then!!
He went out this morning to the shop and thankfully stayed out for 8 hours (not long enough as far as we were concerned) and after ordering himself a takeaway this evening has been in his room ever since. He is here until NYE unless I decide enough is enough and send him to sleep on the floor at his DMs for the rest of his stay.
Other than that, DSD, her DH and DGD called in today which was lovely and a bit less frantic than yesterday with all the present opening and quick drinks everywhere and excited GCs. My SonIL also dropped in with our borrowed chairs and then took off for his usual Boxing Day meal out with his side of the family.
We had a lovely afternoon catching up on their family news and met DGDs new BF as well as having some much needed giggles.
This evening is chilled with DH and I both diving into the kitchen at odd times for leftover nibbles - cold ham anyone?? plus a Beechams Hot Lemon - muggins here has picked up a cold for Christmas!!
I feel for those whose Christmas is never quite what they want or expect. My lovely neighbour lost her husband 3/4 years ago and despite invites from friends did her usual thing of staying home and doing Christmas her way with her two dogs. When I called in to see her yesterday she was getting everything ready to cook for a full Christmas dinner!! Amazing lady!!

It’s a bit sad that so many want their Christmas festivities to just be over as quick as possible.

Much relieved it’s all over ! I am staying with my DD SiL and 2 grandchildren, leaving for home tomorrow and will be very pleased to be back home . SiL developed full blown flu on Christmas Eve , my DD was furious with him poor chap! He’s never ill and really is very unwell. The children have spent so much time on their screens, I think they should have been confiscated but obviously didn’t get involved. So DD and I had Christmas dinner with the two GC who finished in 10 minutes. All very tense here. Now DD thinks she maybe getting it🤞my flu shot will protect me .

Our families never consider it to be "just one day".

Starts with Advent.
Ends 5 Jan[shush but I have been known to keep the decs up longer if I cant be bothered/want them up for longer.

So Christmas is about 5 or 6 weeks. Lovely.

And makes the Winter go faster as well.
Lots of wins.

Add to that, myself and a relative then take Jan easier. If we can.
We know how to do "Christmas"!

For the first time in my life I wasn't looking forward to Christmas
Kept DH happy by visiting MIL on Christmas morning (first time since March), SIL arrived while we were there, I smiled politely and wished them a merry Christmas.
Turkey was delicious but most of the dinner ended up in the bin, I just wasn't hungry.
Really enjoying watching Gavin and Stacey
My DGD made video call which made my day, DD sent lots of messages, spoke to my auntie on the phone and my brother called from Spain today. It's not easy having my family all living so far away
Took dog for walk on the beach today, was very mild day and was nice to get out.

Don’t count me in that number mae13 no regrets, just a happy, grateful heart.
Son, daughter, fiancée, grandchildren and step grandchild, we’ve seen them all and what a pleasure. Presents gratefully received and given, preparation and food shared, laughs, hugs and memories made.
Never far away is how it could be; what if..
We count our blessings.

We have had a very busy Christmas where we have entertained family for three full days so far. We are busy with much the same until Sunday night then early Monday morning we go on holiday when my brain can get a rest and wow does it need it.
I am sending everyone my best wishes and feel sad for those of you who have had a difficult time. Kind thoughts to you all.

It’s so interesting to read about all the different Christmases. My thoughts go out to all those who are without a loved one - sadly too many to mention. It’s also heart warming to hear all about the kind and supportive families, especially Penny4them. They sound lovely.
I am on my second marriage and have a blended family of all shapes, sizes, and personalities! We rub together ok and have chaotic but fun get togethers.
It’s not easy, and it’s pretty exhausting, but we get by and we’re all there for each other when needed. It has taught me that family is not just about blood.
But in answer to the OP’s question …… yes, I bloody well will be glad when it’s all over 🤣

We are of course all different. Some of us are having especially difficult times. This is my third Christmas without my husband, he died in October 2022 so close to Christmas. It’s not as raw, but I still miss him with every atom. Hosting this year was a big thing for me. I’m sitting with my dogs, fire lit, lights on my real tree and dotted around the house to bring Cher. I’ve walked those dogs and cleared up. Cooked my meal from left overs, and looking forward to using the ends of the turkey in either a flan or more likely pasta tomorrow when one daughter and her children come
I recognise this season can be really tough. I’m not immune to feeling the negatives,
I’m curious about thanking God it’s over when I reflect on why Christians celebratev

Its over thank God- Who else feels the same
I was counting down the night sleeps ( like a child) about a week before.
On Xmas eve we had a party. I went to bed with a sigh of relief, one more sleep and we’re nearly there.
I feel I’m bombarded with it.
Some years ago we went to Egypt to ( hopefully) get away from it. The resort thought they would surprise us all with a Xmas dinner with the bells and whistles ahhhhh 😩

I was all over it after Christmas lunch yesterday.
Normality beckons.

I used to enjoy Christmas but five years ago my DH died three days after Christmas Day.
It has never been the same since. My DS2 lives with me and I am very glad for his company. I have a visit from two of my grandchildren, of the other three I hope to be seeing them over the next few days.
Tomorrow my DS1 is visiting me and we are going to see my sister whose birthday it is on Saturday.

Oh RosiesMaw, I identify and empathise. We like other gransnet posters lost our husbands, our life partners after tough times caring for them. I hosted my first big family Christmas get together and the big lunch/dinner yesterday. I felt a bit stressed and anxious in the build up. Stunned by the butchers bill , worried I’d taken on too much on my own. Mr I loved a big do at home, we shared the prep, the shopping, the cooking and hosting and the big clear up.
But - it all came together, everyone got on well and contributed love and fun and a bit of cooking/washing up. My two digs were lovely, daughters doodle also. Then after most left, I watched Wallace and Gromit with my youngest D, her partner and their two boys - my grandsons. I’m blessed and I know I am

Just the two of us. We laid the table nicely, silver cutlery, napkins and a glass of wine, then a film, doze, call the midwife and bed.

Best Christmas for ages.

Sorry for everyone who has been ill.

Well I m not "relieved" it's over ! Actually it isnt- as I am staying with D1 and family until Saturday and we are being joined by D2 and family this evening, D3 and family tomorrow, DH's sisters and brother, a nephew and niece also tomorrow!
IMO any justification for seeing my AC and GC and being together and not alone deserves a celebration Paw loved his family and they meant everything you him I just hope he was looking down and smiling to see what lovely young people they are growing into.
As for any "hype" - if I don't let myself get hyped up there's no let down
God knows I'v got another 5 1 and 1/2 weeks of the year to "enjoy" my own company, let's be grateful for the spread of a bit of love and joy.

Positive thoughts to posters suffering isolation or poor health. Primrose I thought of you yesterday. I’ve a little experience of the shock to every atom of our beings when our husband suffers a life changing stroke. It’s good to see your update and also that you have good support. I hope his recovery continues well

Yeah, it's over again until about September.

I wonder how many are nursing a heavy dose of anxiety and regret - plus the physical downside of a hangover - looking at their collection of credit cards and thinking "Oh. My. God!"

Primrose53

Love and hugs to Pammiel💐 for a speedy recovery.

I am just sitting down for 10 mins after preparing turkey lunch for 5 minus husband in hospital. We were with him yesterday so today we are having our Xmas lunch at home.

I have cut back a bit …. Turkey crown instead of whole turkey and not bothering with bread sauce as only myself and husband like it. Have made forcemeat balls, cocktail sausages, roast potatoes, carrots, red cabbage, peas so it should still be nice.

It doesn’t seem like Christmas at all without my husband. At first I was in shock and extremely worried as they said his condition was very serious indeed. As the days went by I had very mixed emotions but at the moment I feel like this is just a dream or it’s happening to someone else.

Anyway, the nights are slightly lighter, we have food and drink and I have been overwhelmed with cards and good wishes from friends and neighbours so in many ways I am fortunate.

Primrose53

It doesn’t seem like Christmas at all without my husband. At first I was in shock and extremely worried as they said his condition was very serious indeed. As the days went by I had very mixed emotions but at the moment I feel like this is just a dream or it’s happening to someone else.

I know that feeling - where it's almost as if you are watching something unfold that is not actually happening to you.

It's self-preservation from shock.

I hope your husband is improving. Keep us posted - people care. It's nice that you have good friends and neighbours.

Good wishes for the coming days, and the future.

Wishing you a full and speedy recovery Pammie1. Sad that you have been so hurt, Nanato3 by your family. I have had difficult times with past Christmases, and can empathise with those who have had difficulties and losses. Wishing you all good health and happiness in 2025.