[Gayle]

Each year we have a minor conflict about when the tree and decorations go up. I personally would like everything to go up on Christmas Eve (make it a big festive event, put the tree out and pressies under it then put stuff out for Santa etc) and Chris would like them to go up at the beginning of December - no point asking the kids because they want them up some time in September. So, every year I hold out for as long as is possible with Chris and the kids bugging me to be allowed to put everything up. We end up compromising when I've finally had enough of the pressure!

As for cards - I think you should only send them to people that you're not giving presents to or likely to see. I also feel the same way about birthday cards - it's nice if someone doesn't give you a pressie if they remember your birthday with a card but why bother if your handing something over?