my ex always got the kids christmas day, too. i had 'em christmas eve. actually, it was a good break...they'd leave at 11 and get home about 5. i used to have a party every christmas eve, so that was very nice, to regroup. of course, on the years i regrouped quickly and got everything done...well, frankly, it could get boring. was always glad to see them come back home. he died 4 years ago, super bowl sunday. he had a brain tumor, that made him violent. that's why we got divorced. yet, i honestly don't hate christmas. this year, mine was pretty nice, to be honest....new year's eve makes me sad, though....auld ange syne could make me cry on the 4th of july, truth be told :*)