If and when we get another stimulus check from the government

I haven't given much thought to the Christmas holidays since most of my family lives far away and the older generation have all passed away. My children are busy with their friends and both of them live with their boyfriends. It is a condition where they visit the boyfriends' parents for the holidays each year. I just try to focus on other things and not dwell on it since I find it to be very depressing.

With gas prices as they are, it takes several hundred dollars for us to drive to visit our children and grandchildren. We took a week and visited all three early in June, and of course, ended up spending more money than we should have. I'm trying to save up and make a little extra money so the next trip won't be such a burden financially.

Quality time is really important. I agree with what you are saying here.

I think that many of us are in the same place as your family is. The economy is really hurting and people are cutting back more than ever. I hope that things get better for your family really soon.