Girl 3's indepence that began in earnest with secondary school in September took another step forward today. We've been giving her £5 a week pocket money since then, and encouraging her to use this money to fund her own clubs, school trips, stationery etc etc as well as presents for the rest of the family when the time comes.
Today she got off the bus two stops early at the local shops and went off by herself to get something for Girl 4 who turns nine at the weekend.
First time she's been shopping on her own, as well as walking back from the shops. All is good
We've brought a personal CD player and some books in keeping with our decision at the beginning of the year to make a significantly bigger deal of individual birthdays and take a step back from Christmas.
I refuse to rant here about how totally shit the whole thing has become. I actually resent the fact that people will consider spending £200 on a lifesize 'karaoke Santa'. To do this, you must seriously have too much money.

"Oh no, we don't have any money at all. God knows how we are going to get 'Jack' new shoes for school this month."

Then don't even ASK what you should get our kids for Christmas.

I refuse to rant here about how totally shit the whole thing has become.
I said that.