What has happened to my family in th last decade or so? I remember we used to be a family, not so much now. I am here, in the kitchen, on the computer, Daughter in the dining room doing homework, son in his room, playing video games, my husband is in the garage suppose to be fixing his project car, but he is probably on his computer looking at where he can get parts for the 1965 mustang convertible. I have a stack of bills on the kitchen counter that I told myself I would address today, but not yet. How is it possible to spend so much money? And on what?

I also am dreading the visit I will get tomorrow. My mom is coming to visit . I always wanted to make her proud of me , I’m afraid , I’ve been a disappointment on some levels. Oh sure she loves me , but she always said she expected more from me because I had the most potential. I had the ability to go the farthest, but it seems the farther I go , the less I’m in touch with my self and the family. Why do we have to trade success for family ties? Life used to be so simple. When my husband and I first married we had a studio apartment, an old car, and practically no bills, and we had fun. We loved life. We used to laugh a lot, I remember. Once the door fell off our old car, he tied it back on, and we drove all over.

I was young and agile then, and didn’t think anything of just getting out through the window. It was fun. we always had enough to eat, people gave us clothes to wear, and it was one of the happiest times of my life! I’ve been thinking a lot about those old times. It certainly proves to me that money really doesn’t buy happiness. We have two good incomes, and we are falling apart. We do have family home night on Friday, where we manage to get together and talk, play board games, and eat pizza usually. I think when our next family evening comes around, I’m going to do some talking.

I’m going to get feedback, and input from every one, as to how we can live simpler. cut down on the bills, and give up some conveniences to spend less, and get some more quality time with the family. I don’t know everyone will take it, but the mortgage on this house is killing us. Exactly how many square feet, per person, do you actually need ? I’m sure we have enough here, for a family of twelve. This is the fourth house, to which, we have” upgraded” . I’m thinking its time for a ” downgrade?” A smaller house without a media room, without deluxe guest quarters, and without a four car garage.

I’m thinking three bedrooms, 2 car garage, and the guests can stay in the den, or on the couch, or better yet , a motel. Our mortgage will be cut by at least half, if not more, and we will be happy campers. There will be more money for college, and that is where the real investment lies. So I feel pretty good right now.