My daughter came up with the idea of not to buying expensive and possibly unwanted presents. We now have family dinner at a top restaurant on Christmas eve, thoroughly enjoying ourselves without anyone having to do the cooking or washing up. It works out less than the expensive presents, even with a generous tip to the waitron (providing service was good). There may even be money available for the SPCA or some favourite charity.

On Christmas day we lounge around the pool and help ourselves to snacks or whatever is available. This way we can enjoy each other's company with no pressure on any family member to wait on the others.