We always got cash from our rellies in London. And I agree, it was so exciting to open cards and see more money than you had in the previous 6 months sat there in front of you. We were never greedy kids, but there was a sense of What, no money? when you opened some cards.
My Dad was the youngest brother, so we got quite large amounts from our two uncles. Well, large for 8-12 year olds - Mum made us save it for when we went on holiday, and it made a big difference to them because we could pay our own way in the amusement arcades, and buy a portion of chips on the pier etc. I do wonder if it set the pattern for me getting pleasure from blowing large wads on money on trinkets though!
