Happy Halloween, Happy Thanksgiving, and Merry Christmas! The holidays are upon us and as the days go on the economy seems to be getting worse, so how can families enjoy the holidays this year?

We have decided to scale down this year. Our son's birthday and Christmas are in the same month, so we have decided that gifts and a sleepover would be more affordable, instead of a big party. Happy kid and happy parents :)

Our family is growing with two new babies this year. Robert got to hold Sophia yesterday and she is so tiny like a little doll. Phillip has such an expressive face and if he could he would run out the door so he could play with the rest of the kids. The rest of the kids are getting so big. 8 years and it seems like a flash of time went by. It is so nice to be able to play with the babies and remember that baby smell. The best part is we don't have to do all the rest. Stinky diaper? Let's go get your mommy. Ha, Ha

We are also combining holidays with birthdays this year, so there are many ways to celebrate and still keep on a budget. We are trimming the fat this year and changing how we look at celebrating this year. We are just grateful to be a family and able to spend time with those we love.

As the holidays approach, we wish you all joy, contentment, and peace........

DDF