At fifty something I am still much more comfortable giving presents, rather than receiving them. This is crazy; I mean I am just as worthy of being showered with gifts as the next person.

I used to think it was a generational thing. A result of being a mother or a woman. We are consumed with looking after others, all the time. I thought there would be a point in time where a switch flicked and suddenly I would be selfish. I know people will argue that I am cranky and selfish, and maybe they are right. Still I find it difficult to except gifts.

I blame my mother. Don’t we all? I know my children probably say the same thing about those areas of their lives that they are not happy with. I remember my mother declining gifts and offers of help. I unintentionally picked that behaviour and took it on as my own.

This Christmas it is going to be different. Gifts to family, loved ones. I am going to try my best to say yes please if I am offered anything, and thank you instead of no thank you. It is still better to give than to receive. It is just that receiving is cool too.

Learning to navigate the delightful maze that is a wonderful life.