Well it's late Christmas Eve and my little apartment is glowing. I'm a divorced dad and have to take my kids back the day after Christmas. I've had them all week! So, we started early so they could play with their toys before it‘s time for them to go back to their mother‘s home. I was afraid in this economic climate I might not be able to get my kids anything at all. I managed. I didn't go over-board by any stretch of the imagination. It was the most modest Christmas, in fact, that I can remember with my kids. I decided to share my moment of true Christmas happiness here. It's when the video came out with no audio that I realized the real moment was captured. Words were not needed here. My kids bright faces...warm smiles... and big hugs near the end that make this time of year the best for me. My kids were happier with their time with me than anything I bought them. They were grateful and loving. That's more than I could ever wish for. I have their love. That's all I needed or wanted this Christmas.

As I face a possible layoff the first week in January, I am scared to death. It would most likely mean the second major career change in about 5 years. It would mean starting completely over again. This economy is worse than I've seen it in my lifetime. It worries me and makes me fearful for my future. But then I let the love of my kids wash all that away, even if only for moments at a time... and I cope. I wish you all the love of those closest to you this holiday season. Though tough times are ahead...keep your eyes on the things that really matter in life and you will cope.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

David ~ Texas