We have just returned from a week's vacation, and while we had intended for things to be low-key this year anyway, they will be more so since the close friends we usually celebrate with are going through very trying times this year, and will not have much to celebrate. We are just going to try and be supportive and make the most of it. I probably won't even put on a tree and the giving of small gifts seems very futile.

I hear ya, Hetty,
I celebrate for my niece and nephew and a few close friends. Small gifts, handmade usually, couple of gift cards. For my niece and nephew ... they have been around the world a few times each and don't want for anything. I know they appreciate that I remember them for ALL the holidays and Christmas and birthdays ( go card shopping once a year for ALL the holidays). Nothing big, just a card or small change. I can't compete with riding an elephant in Cambodia or snuggling with pandas in a Chinese, Bejing panda nursery

At my age it's better to give.....or just remember. Oh and I do call a lady I've known for about 40 yrs from Holland who lives in San Jose, CA every Christmas. Love catching up with her!

I understand that. What can you really give someone who has enough money to indulge themself? Same thing with my daughter. I wanted to find a certain kind of antique for her, but am not gettering anywhere on that. She's really special. They'd like me to go visit, but it's hard to go anywhere anymore. Too many depend on me. I'll probably end up just staying home.