I've learned that no matter how much you spend on gifts, they are not necesarily what the receiver wants.

At times it's just too stressful to get "the perfect gift", which most likely will end up not being used at all .

As to invitations and compromises, I cut down on most.

But for me, the official cook in the family, this time (this year) I am about to go out on a strike . Not because I don't want to cook-I love cooking when I know others will enjoy it, but I am in great need of down time.

My extended family is hoping I get to do some of our traditional puertorrican dishes and I am just sooo tired, and will have no help, that I am about to not do anything at all !

I just feel bad for my kids, cause they are used to the best cooking for family get-togethers. But I need to go with something simpler this time (if I want to keep my sanity )