DEAR ANNIE: I am struggling with what feels like a small thing, but it weighs on me. I have several great-nieces and great-nephews, and over the years I’ve tried to remember birthdays with cards, little gifts or even just a phone call. Lately, though, I feel overwhelmed. Between the number of children, the cost of presents and my own busy life, I can’t keep up the way I used to.

This year, two of them have birthdays coming up, and I find myself dreading it rather than looking forward to celebrating them. Part of me wonders if I should stop sending gifts altogether and just acknowledge the day with a heartfelt card or call. But then I worry they will think I don’t care or that I am playing favorites if some get gifts and others don’t.

I don’t want to disappoint these kids, but I also don’

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