Well once again,'tis the season" the season of spending. Where every one runs out to find that perfect gift, for their friends and family members. Decorations go up on and around the house, menus being planned, even trips being scheduled. It all adds up to spending more. But, as the old saying goes; "It's not how much the cost, it's the thought that counts."

If you are like I am, I have procrastinated every year when it comes to holiday shopping. I have lost out on a lot of good deals, and have probably cost myself enough money to send Santa to the Bahama's, for a year's worth of vacation; if not a vacation home there. However, It's all good, it comes around once a year, and it is a way for my wife and to thank our kids for all they do.

But finding that perfect gift, for each of them, becomes a daunting task. However, listening to my youngest son, everything on television or in the paper would be "Just The Perfect Thing, for Him" The youngest daughter and Son, is now getting to the age where it would probably be easier if they gave us a list consisting of what they do not want. I would almost imagine that list would be much shorter.

Well, as you probably have realized, we home school our kids.  They get more than their fair share of time on the computer, doing assignments and playing games.  When they are not on the computer, the Play Station and X-Box is their next choice for gaming.  So, thoughts have entered our minds in locating new educational games for them.  That is until we messed up and started buying other types of games.  Now, they are all ranting about games such as the new "Call Of Duty" game, which is soon coming out. 

The problem with this, is one it is not out yet and we are not really sure, how long it will remain on the top lists, of games.  The second problem, is that in order to play it, we are going to need upgraded gaming console.  So, as toys go we are bouncing off the walls, much like most families are, or will be within a short time.  Just trying to balance the "wants and needs" of our children.

Our oldest is being much more agreeable, when it comes to her Christmas list, requests.  Yes, she is only wanting the newest, highest costing cell phone with all the apps, available.  I recently asked her, if she wanted the new "Viper" app. I laughed, when I asked this, because this application opens your car doors, sets your vehicle alarm, and remotely starts you vehicle. When she said yes, I then reminded her that she does not have a car.  She added  "YET!!"  Yeah, like she is getting a vehicle anytime soon. .She is 13.

Holidays are special and call for special considerations, when it comes to families getting together. Uncles, Aunts, Neices, Nephews and Parents all get to gether to spoil the kids. Yes, they come from all over the Nation, for one or two special holidays to fulfill their time quota, with the family. Some they can not stand, others they can stand to see them leave, and yet others will do for a limited time.

Travel arrangements, from trains, metros, cars and airplanes the receiving family, who has to greet them, rush to fill their schedules, so they can bounce back and forth between transportation sources to gather everyone up. Some with motels and hotel reservations and others whom are planning to stay at the relative's homes. This year, is my turn to rush, spend and to deal with all of the commotions raised between warring factions of the families.

Now imagine this: Being the youngest of six, I have five sets of inlaws, 32 children, 12 adults in my extended family, and 9 kids, 5 grand kids, two sister in-laws and a brother in law which I get the fun task of planning logistic's for. Oh yes, The holidays are special and when it is all over, the serenity of the everyday frustrations will return, and I will be in blissful heaven, once again.

A quick break, and for your listening pleasure!  Bob and Doug wants to share a song with you.

Now, I am positive you think I am complaining at this point. But, when it is all said and done; We will have many blessings to be thankful for; and will announce on Thanksgiving. We will rejoice in our pleasures, and the pleasures received by everyone, including the kids playing their video games and making noise, on Christmas Morning.

And When it is all said and done, pictures will be developed then emailed to everyone whom came. The garbage, overfilled during the month long adventure of family reunion styled functions, will be cherished for all the years to follow. And as kids are, the toys they receive will either be handed down to their siblings, torn up, or discarded to make room for the following years celebrations. All for us to repeat a cycle of Celebrating the Holidays, and giving gifts to all whom we Love and Cherish.

Happy Holidays, to everyone and Merry Christmas as well.  I am going to rest; as these thoughts have exhausted me; already.