So this is Christmas?

I have been in a similar situation. I have never been divorced as you mentioned in your other post, but I have experienced the lack of money at Christmas. The first year I was married, we didn't even know if we would be able to afford a Christmas tree! I know that little kids do not understand. Don't underestimate the bargains you can find at places such as Goodwill and Salvation Army stores. The Dollar Tree and Family Dollar, and even Dollar General are good places to look. Stores like Walmart and Target generally have a lot of things on clearance as well. I liked someone elses idea on here about painting a shelf and putting an elf inspection tag on it. That is just pur genius!!! Also, have you looked into programs such as toys for tots? I am sure any of these things could be of help. I am not sure about the ages of your children, but I do wish you all the best in however you end up handling this situation. Try not to get too down on yourself. Children bounce back very well, and they tend to understand more than you think they would. Make sure you reinforce to them that they have done nothing wrong! It sounds like you are doing as much as you can, and things are just rough right now. I tend to believe that everything happens for a reason, and while you may ot see it right now, maybe something good will come out of your current situation. All the best to you and your children, and I hope you have a wonderful, magical Christmas regardless of money!

I do not have a lot of money right now either, but fortunately I have family that is helping me out. Having kids and not having a lot of money is hard. Keep the faith. Things will all work themselves out.

i hope everything works out good for you! happy xmas!

I always get the blues around Christmas as alot of what my kids ask for I just can't afford. My son really wants a Nintendo Wii but they are so expensive and then you have to buy the games and that gets really expensive. I don't like what I got my kids for Christmas this year but it is what I can afford.

My partner and I have been together for 10 years now, but early this year she started work overseas, now she can't come home for Christmas and I'll be spending it for the first time witnout her. Here in the Philippines, even if our government say that the country's economy is getting better or the currency is getting stronger but looking around there are a few hint that it's Christmas: shopping malls, restaurants, schools. But for most its like an ordinary day here so it's a bit sad also. And yet, we are have a strong Catholic/ Christian background. I guess, contrary to our government's report many are having hard times here. Me included. So maybe many will celebrate Christmas this year as just another ordinary holiday. Eventhough, Merry Christmas to you barbiegirl13 and to you mylotters too.

i have christmas blues too no matter how hard i try i cant shake them i even when out and got lights and things to put up but cant shake it i have lost alot of family members close to the holidays and i have hit some bumps in the financial road so that makes this time of year suck for me too

I have been in your situation myself and with the pressures on parents to provide a great time for their kids we can be left feeling like a failure. However, kids are very understanding when they have things explained to them. You need to tell your kids about your situation and help them understand that with a new baby on the way money is tight. It is certainly not worth getting into more debt for this. Tell them that when you have some money, then they will receive a special gift. It will be a sadder day for them if they see you upset and it is not good for you either while you are pregnant. I wish you happiness throughout this time, you have the biggest gift coming, the birth of your child.

Don't worry, this is only a temporary situation. You sound like a really resourceful mom who really wants to give her kids a great Christmas. I agree with another poster who said that kids are resilient little creatures--they bounce back and you'll be surprised at how understanding they can be. You can sit your kids down and explain the situation to them. You do not have to sugarcoat it, but don't emphasize the negatives either. I too have been in your shoes--actually we are having a really tough time this year as well, but you know what? You seem to be in good health, thank the Lord, and you have to keep your chin up because not only are your three tiny angels counting on you, but the other one to come as well. I will keep you in my prayers. God never abandons anybody; just keep thinking that God is both source and supply, and claim that abundant substance is present in your life now. Check out Quartus.org and you will feel better. It is the website of John Randolph Pierce and his wife Jan. JR Pierce wrote a little booklet, "40 Day Prosperity Plan" and it has helped a lot of people turn their perspective around about money and lack. All the best, dear barbiegirl13, and lots of hugs to you and your kids from Granny Siggi!

Christmas is such an expensive time of the year. I believe that it is the thought that counts when giving a present. My sister now has four children so it is quite a stretch to afford a nice present for each child. But I set aside a budget for each one. I got the two presents first that were a bit cheaper than the amount set aside so I was able to spend a bit more on my oldest nephew. I got him a Lego set that was a high cost but he really wanted this. Recently I was pregnant myself so I understand how tiring work is and keeping up a clean and tidy home as well. Well done for having two jobs, looking after your children and paying off your debts as you can afford to do so. Buy presents in charity shops or bargain like anything for a pound type of shop. Making things by hand is another good idea, like clothes, a soft toy animal or something made from wood. You could go to a jumble sale, borrow a sewing kit or a tool kit. You can make Christmas cards from old cereal packets. A mum was a child at the time of World War II. She told me she got small presents like an orange and a tiny toy. Children today expect far more. But in hard times they are lucky to get anything at all. I suggest times playing in your local park. Making or buying the cheapest presents possible and spending quality time at home together as a family. Next year you will have a lovely new little baby. You will begin to get over the sadness of getting divorced. The future for you looks bright. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you. Take care and good luck.