I just talked to my MIL. For as long as I can remember I have hosted Christmas Eve at my house for my inlaws. Last year my MIL wanted to do it at her house because they live over an hour away and they all live out there. Even though I was bummed, it totally made sense. I really wanted to have the tradition for my kids to be at home on Christmas Eve, but after I got a break from it one year, I was like WAHOO to new tradittions! It was sooo much easier and it worked out great!
I asked her if she was having it at her house and she said I could have at my house if I wanted. Bummmmmer. lol. I know I should do it, because she does all the Holidays at her house, but its a lot of work and added expense. She is convinced out of everyone only her house and mine can handle it. So, its either her or I and her daughter gets off the hook.
With 3 kids this year I was looking forward to another break. :) Bad me.
No matter whos house its at, we ALL bring dishes so the host is not cooking the whole meal.
I know she would probably like a break, but she wont just come out and say it. Should I offer???
Next year, start early by asking the daughter to do it. See what she says.
If you end up on the hook again, divvy up the work. That way you aren't having to do it all. And... Make The Men clean up!
Dawn
tell her that u think she did a better job last year and you enjoyed it, but if she wants a break and to take turns ou will. plus u'll probably get in the spirit of christmas preparing and realized how you missed it
if I liked to be home ( which I do ) I would just tell everybody to come on over! Its just once a year, that's what I tell myself! Have a great time!
I wouldn't assume anything.
Come out and ask her what she's thinking.
She may be worried that you are silently not saying anything about not being able to host at your house.
Me, personally...if my house was big enough, I'd much rather host and not have to do any driving.
For many years, everything was at my sister's house because she is halfway between me and my mom. Centrally located, in other words. Many times, the kids and I could just spend the night either Christmas Eve or Christmas night, but not always depending on my work schedule, etc.
I would just come out and ask her if she mentioned it because she'd like a break from having everyone for a change. If she says yes, then, you have your answer and you can host.
Best wishes.
she probably didnt like the experience so much and is more willing to give it up to a more young, enthusiastic christmas lover. I am with you, I MUCH rather it be at others homes. I took Thanksgiving this year, thinking it was going to be the easier one right? NO its more cooking I think... least I dont have to deal with the wrapping paper. I would say something to the effect and jokingly, Ok I will take it this year but you get it next year.
yes you should offer. Personally, I love doing Christmas Eve. Have been
doing it for 35 years. We see everyone on Christmas Eve and that frees
everyone up to be where they need to be Christmas Day. Everyone usually
stays home and lets their kids have Christmas. Much, much later Christmas day we may get together at someone elses house.
maybe you can all rotate years including the daughter starting with you this year. If the MIL does most holidays then give her a break once in awhile. think about it this away, you don't have to travel an hour back home at night, you're already there. Make the men clean up. Usually someone will step up and help you clean up the dishes. People aren't there to visit your house, they are there to visit you and if they don't like it then the next time you host, they don't have to come.
If you don't want to host this year, don't do it. It sounds like that is what you are leaning toward and besides, you're the one with 3 kids at home.
But then you have to let go of the guilt, and be OK with the fact that this is not really what she would prefer.
If you don't host, and she doesn't host, maybe her daughter (or someone else) will step up.
Good luck!
you should do it if for no other reason than when your babies need to go down for a nap or just escape from the craziness of having a houseful of people they can go into their own rooms. I loved having it at my house.
