crankygran

A plate of home made cookies or candy or ornaments?

brendadawg

I don't think you're obligated. If you feel her children won't understand, and you don't have time to make something, how about a book from the bargain bin at a discount book store?

jitkaau

Maybe she is buying presents for your children as a 'thank - you'to you for your kindness or hospitality to her? I often give something to a child in this way. That way, the parent doesn't have to feel that she has to exchange gifts. It is a gift - not an exchange.Include her/them in some of your activities and celebrations if you are able to afford it and they will understand.

madamekelly

How about a plate of cookies? Maybe fudge?

Gabrielle's Mimi

How about a jar with cookie ingredients inside and the recipe written on a tag? Baked goods are always thoughtful. Or how about getting a bag of pretzels and dipping them in melted chocolate? It might be a fun activity for your kids and teaches sharing in a responsible, non-monetary way. Don't let her "guilt" you into buying gifts because then you'll have the same problem next year. (Don't you think that was what she was trying to do by telling you that she was buying gifts even though you expressed that exchanging gifts was not something you were able to do?)

caspoohbear

Quick sewed pillowcases or tote bags would make a gift IF you feel obliged to.

wraez

I know what you are feeling, I have had the same thing happen on occasion and it makes me feel awkward and uncomfortable.

How about baking something special for them, their favorite cookies, fudge or whatever. I know my kids would have been thrilled with goodies when they were younger, gee come to think about it, they'd love it now and they're adults, LOL.

Hope you'll be feeling better about the situation.

warm quilt hugs, sue in CA

Qwiltylady

She obviously knows money is tight for you this year so allow her to play Santa for your girls and count your blessings that you have such a wonderful person in your circle! Each Christmas we chose a family we know are struggling and we buy 1 present for each family member. This is never done expecting them to buy something for us! One lady just couldn't accept this as a no strings attached gift(Pun intended) so I suggested she make me a coupon book. It had things like mop the kitten floor for me(since I am disabled) take me to the grocery store, collect my mail and feed the cats while I am away. The little things I have a problem doing myself. I loved it and have used several of them. It has been so much fun! Feel free to steal her idea!

Slow2Sew

Handmade thank you cards from your children would likely mean a great deal to her. Her children are old enough to not feel slighted if they don't receive a return gift.