Christmas sneaks up on me every time. I don't know how that happens; it's not like it's a fixed date on the calendar or anything. But somehow I still miss it, put things off, always thinking this will be the year I plan ahead, yet I never do.
At some point in November I get the email from the parents asking what they can do for us for Christmas. This proves to be a bit of a conundrum as we no longer live across town; we live across an ocean. Shipping rates aren't exactly favourable to any of us and I spend hours racking my brain on gift ideas for my children (and, likewise, for them!) that will be thoughtful and personal, as well as thrifty and expedient.
If you're a fellow expat, or love an expat, or just live too far way from family, here are a few ideas to make Christmas gift-giving (and shipping) not such a pain in the neck.
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