Yes, I understand all that, and please understand, if I had a close family, or if my husband did, this would feel much different. See, his mother never pays any attention to my kids at all. She complains because she has grandkids, because she is "too old to be a grandma". She is an alcoholic, and says she is going to be 29 forever and never get old. At least at Christmas they can feel like she cares a little bit if they get something from her, since they don't get love or hugs. As far as my brother, he never comes around, he has a gambling addiction, never even calls my kids to wish them happy birthday, but last year when we went to their house for Christmas and did a gift exchange was the first time my kids felt like they meant anything to him. Not because of how much they cost or how many gifts there were, but because he actually took the time to think of them. I feel like at least at Christmas they got to feel a little bit like these people cared about them. Yes, it was through gifts, but these are people that do not show them affection or give them any attention any other time. They are not going to not give gifts this year because of some tragic financial crisis, its because my mother in law would rather party and drink her money away, and my brother would rather smoke and gamble it away.
I came from a family that does gifts at Christmas and Birthdays, and I respect the beliefs of those that don't, but as a person that loves to bless people with gifts myself, I cannot comprehend how someone can blow off their grandchildren or nieces and nephews this way. I would feel differently if they cared otherwise.
I understand the meaning behind Christmas. I have been a strong Christian my whole life, and my husband and I are very active in our church. I hate the commercialism of the Holiday now, and I hate how children are demanding ipods and gifts that cost hundreds of dollars. I cannot fathom how someone can spend so much on Christmas. However, we do love to bless our children with modest gifts this time of year and it is very heartfelt. It hurts me that my family, and my husbands family make such different choices than us that effect our children.

Sorry to hear you're having problems at Christmas but I do wish you (and everyone:)) a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!! If you want to know if you have a leak, you can get a spray bottle and put some soapy water in it (dishwashing liquid works well). Spray some around any connections and if you have a leak, bubbles will appear.