No Christmas This Yr.

There is really no reason to tell your children there won't be any Christmas. This year could be the Home Made Christmas where you make things for each other. You could start a tradition of re-gifting as well. Each child gives something they have out grown to the next child in line.

There are lots of places that can help with both the spiritual and commercial aspects of Christmas. When I was growing up my mother rarely had money for lavish gifts. She bought essentials and we accepted them graciously. Our Church played Santa as well. I could count on getting a robe and a Bible for Christmas and I was so happy to know they cared.

Register your children with Toys for Tots, The Salvation Army, and other groups that have Angel trees in the stores and shopping centers.

Really, the little kids don't need much and if the older kids want that x box or personal dvd player then they can earn the money for it by doing chores for the neighbors.

Whatever you do don't blame their father. I know you have a court order for child support and by all means call an agency to enforce that, but you can make due without having a ton of money for big ticket items.

The Salvation Army does the Miricle of Christmas every year. I'm sure if you told them your situation, they would be able to help you get some things for your children. I've donated many times to the angel tree also. I would be happy to help you find something, if you need it. My e-mail is ____@____.com care,
D.

I agree - see what you can do to get your children on an angel tree or something like that. People are SO generous at the holidays. And, among the family, perhaps it's time to rethink the idea of Christmas - encourage your children to be creative and CREATE gifts (those are the most memorable ones anyway). Maybe you can find time to take them to a soup kitchen so they can help serve those even less fortunate than you - learning that giving is better than receiving is a good lesson.

I was once a student also as well as a single parent. Christmas was tight. I do have a suggestion. The churches are wonderful. I don't know if you belong or would even consider their help but there is so many contributions around christmas to families in need. If you do have a blessing come your way just remember to pass it on when you are able. God Bless you and you family.

I attend church at The Salvation Army and yes they do things for kids every holiday. You can sign your kids up now for that and TOYS FOR TOTS. We participate in that program as well. They also help out with Thanksgiving & Christmas dinners. If you need anymore help please email me.
____@____.com
Good luck to you and God Bless!!