I too am struggling with the expense of Christmas and my mental illness is so severe right now I can barely keep myself out of the hospital much less organize my thoughts to make anything...I am bordering on psychotic right now....my heart goes out to all of you who cannot make ends meet and the pain you feel about not being able to get your little ones the things their friends have...it isnt their fault that they are seduced by the media....I hope some things work out very well for you Thunderbear....maybe not all, but some...and I too am sorry to hear about your Mom. I will pray your phone rings with work and you have peace in your heart soon. Stacy may