feeling better, part II

I called my dad to talk about their note and his confusing email, and he called me back about an hour ago. I feel much better about things now. He gave me the back story, and assured me that they did not mean to hurt any one's feelings. It was his idea; he sprang it on my mom at the last minute, and the letter was their way of communicating their wishes to the family. He said we should do whatever we want (he said it nicer than it sounds when you read it here), but we should not feel obligated to send gifts. Which is how it should be, always, IMO.

Steve thinks holiday gift giving between adults is a little weird anyway, and he may be right. But I enjoy shopping so much... I need to have an excuse to buy grown up gifts some times!