Entertaining the family at Christmas

You sound like the perfect guest Shropshire lass. I would have appreciated the offers, but not necessarily accepted. No one likes being taken for granted

Your comments are very positive for which I am grateful.

Get-togethers in my past didn't ever involve " who brings what ", we were just glad/ happy to see one another.

I went to my sons for Christmas, took wine and Prosecco (I don’t drink), ground coffee, half of a cake I had made, home made chocolates and mince pies. I offered something towards the turkey but this was refused. I was told that I had been invited and wasn’t expected to contribute to the cost, but the offer was appreciated. The gifts I took had been very well thought out and not the usual generic gifts. What I took wasn’t expected but it was appreciated, I just couldn’t have gone empty handed.

Nobody can tell you how to feel!
A bit of both, probably.
I would feel grateful that they had been able to come and stay, that I had enjoyed their company for a few days.
I would be glad they had not given me gifts I don't want or need ( another scented candle, anyone?).
I would feel relieved they hadn’t given me chocolates as I would only eat them and out on more weight.
I would struggle if they had brought food for my already full fridge and freezer.
On the other hand, it is good to be appreciative of a host’s efforts and expense, and to offer a contribution. I hope at least that they helped with meal preparation and washing up.h
Maybe they will send flowers when they get home? Will that help??