Over the last few years, I've spent several in Australia at Christmas. It's wonderful to be there, but I had a hard time with the family thing. I loved being with Oz friends & sampling new tradtions, but I missed my Most Precious Grandchildren so much I just don't think I'd want to be there without them again. Last year one of them arrived on Dec 26, so we had an only slightly-delayed celebration, but the other two were back here in Eugene. I cried when we talked on the phone. Not the same.

But I'm very involved in the lives of these MPG (ages 2, 4 & 6): they live nearby & I'm with them several times a week. That might not be a factor for you.

Gail In Eugene far too long