The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
Yep- what Hotrod said- one of my daughters is having a tough year this year and Toys for Tots is getting her son a bike for Christmas. And churches do put on meals and things. Id look into that.
Paper ornaments and popcorn garland with food coloring is fun for the kids.
-- Edited by AlAnonDave on Saturday 22nd of December 2012 01:11:51 PM
This is the first year with no tree no gifts the first xmass my husband will be sober . I understand this but the kids don't. Lack of money due to no overtime to many dr appt for my ah and A W ( Al-anon wife ) I'm depressed for the kids , I'm depressed for my AH and myself. How do you tell kids?
I am sorry that you are in this space and so glad that hubby is sober. That is a huge gift.
As for gifts and Christmas for the children, I know that my Church, the Salvation Army, Toys for Tots and many organizations would be able to help you obtain gifts if you can find the energy to follow up.
I pray that you are given the courage, serenity and widom to continue to grow this Holiday Season.
I'm sorry your Christmas won't be what you want but you still can do something. Telling the children that things will get better as daddy and mommy get well will be the greatest gift you can give to your children and they will be thankful someday.
I find Christmas trees on Christmas eve are given away. Just ask for help. Enjoy Christmas eve making decorations out of paper and crayons and string popcorn with the children to decorate it. Listen to Christmas music, sing and play. Let the children help make popcorn balls...cheap to make and fun to eat. Like Betty said there are many organizations that help people in your position if you want to pursue it.
Christmas dough ornaments are fun ...cheap and easy to make. Kids would love it.
Prayers are with you and your family
__________________
Lord, put your arm around my shoulder and your hand over my mouth
Speak only when you feel that your words are better than your silence.
Not sure where you and/or husband are going to meetings as, but clubhouses are often good places to go on the actual holiday. Christmas is not all about gifts and a tree. You could just do some the the "Christmassy" type stuff people mentioned above and this could be their best christmas ever. Getting a sober dad and a serene and peaceful mom will be a better gift than anything else you could have bought them anyhow.
In the program we learn about expectations. These holidays have become way out of proportion. There were several Christmas' when we didn't have the money. The kids got socks. We found a Christmas tree in the trash (behind an elementary school after they closed for the break). Tell the kids to be creative. And let them know that this to shall pass. Some day they will have a big Christmas.
I am struggling also this year to provide gifts for my three children and foster child. I like the suggestion of popcorn balls and salt dough ornaments. I think we will light candles and dim the lights and listen to Christmas music on Christmas Eve, and we will probably watch a Christmas movie. On Christmas day we'll play board games and maybe play outside in the snow if it isn't too cold, then come in and have hot chocolate. I agree that having a healthy, peaceful family and home is the most important thing you can give your kids. Praying things work out and you have an amazing holiday. I would definitely call your local Salvation Army and area churches to see if any of them can assist with gifts. Best wishes. Mary
