Mel: Right, it's time I bought some Christmas presents otherwise I'll be totally stressed come the holidays. You sorted yet?
Evie: No way, I keep putting it off. You got a lot to buy?
Mel: Well yeah. My kids, the stepkids, nieces and nephews, Mum, Sis and hubby and that's just off the top of my head!
Evie: Well, my two don't believe in Santa now and keep trying to add more stuff to their list, so that's a massive pain!
Mel: Yeah, at least when the bloody thing has been posted to the North Pole, there's no extra stuff to add. Just tell them that's that!
Evie: Yes, you're right, I've always been too soft. Tim is much firmer than me!
Mel: Well, we've got an inspection at school on the last week of term! I feel like I'm losing my shit already but that just about tops it!
Evie: Poor you, talk about bad timing! We had one last summer. Went OK, considering.We actually aren't Failing anymore! 
Mel: Well done you! You've worked wonders at that place!
Evie: Well, the staff do most of the work day to day, I just oversee it all.
Mel: I'm sure there's a bit more to it than that! And you've done more than your fair share at the chalk face.
Evie: Yes, I do miss the classroom sometimes. Mind you, teaching's all I've ever done, not like you!
Mel: Well, I did enjoy the library, but the hours are so much better in school, not to mention the summer hols!
Evie: Yeah, but everyone thinks we get home at 3.30 and just laze around. I often have meetings and admin still 6, then more stuff at home.
Mel: Well, my marking, planning and preparation take a big chunk out of every evening. I work when the kids have gone to bed most nights. 
Evie: Yes, we do our fair share, love, people who insist that teaching's a part time job just don't get it!
Mel: What do your lot want for Christmas? 
Evie: Saskia wants a new bike and Henry wants loads of space and planet themed gear.
Mel: Definitely the next Brian Cox, that lad!
Evie: Maybe! You cooking for everyone again this year!?
Mel: I am not! My parents in law have booked Christmas lunch at The Bluebell Hotel in town, supposed to be lovely.
Evie: My sister's offered to cook again, it was pretty grim last year; cold veg, dry turkey, greasy spuds, the lot!
Mel: Hmm, tricky! Maybe you and your mum can pitch in to help and maybe even get the men involved and you two disappear down the pub like they usually do!
Evie: Now, that's tempting, we'll see! Anyway, see you at Christmas, I hope.
Mel: Yeah, pop round after Christmas Day if you want to, bye love!
Mel bought Christmas presents while Evie keeps putting it off to the last minute. They have to buy a lot of gifts for their families. Mel is busy with her teaching job too. Evie misses it. Mel's and Evie were invited to Christmas lunches, so they do not have to cook.