DEAR ABBY: Christmas is around the corner. Because our first child was due at Thanksgiving, I planned ahead and did as much of my shopping in advance as I could. The problem is, my husband's family expects everyone to buy presents for everyone else. This means we have to buy for 20 people! I don't mind buying for his parents and siblings, and even his grandparents, but the aunts, uncles and cousins are killing me.
We've bought everyone presents for the past two years and are still paying off credit cards from last year's purchases. I still have my parents and siblings to buy for, too. Money is tight because I'm off work now and will return to work only part time in a few months.
Abby, I don't see how we can afford to continue this tradition. My husband won't let me say anything to his family. Can you give me some advice? -- WANTING A SIMPLER CHRISTMAS
DEAR WANTING: Only this: If you continue trying to adhere to his family's "traditions," your little family will never be out of debt, and your financial burdens will continue to grow until they crush you. Since your husband won't "let" you explain this to his family, perhaps he will consent to accompany you to some credit counseling sessions. I hope they'll help him see the light.