Until 2005, Raynette Henry was a single mother caring for six children while trying to overcome the pain and suffering of an abusive relationship.

But she and Fredrick Henry were married in December of that year, and he accepted her children unconditionally as his own.

Since then, the couple has had a son and daughter together, further expanding the family's head count. True to his conviction, Fredrick Henry, 43, considers each child equal in his eyes.

Raynette, 42, shares her husband's faith and commitment to the children as much as she cherishes the couple's dedication to one another.

"I'm very blessed because my husband is actually my best friend," she said.

The Kalihi family enjoys doing volunteer work to help others in need. They follow a simple "3L" philosophy: live life fully and responsibly, love others and oneself with honesty and compassion, and learn through experience and constant discovery.

Or, as Fredrick put it, "Always hugs, kisses and encouragement to our children so they can do and be their best. ..."

Added his wife, "I look at our family and I realize the times we spend together and encourage each other ... those times are good."

It is this closeness that has sustained them through economic hard times. And lately, times have been especially difficult.

Fredrick, a custodian, is the sole provider. The family survives from paycheck to paycheck, but there's nothing left for extras.

"I haven't even asked the children, 'What is it you would want for Christmas,' " said Raynette.

"But our children don't ask for much. I tell them, 'Always be grateful for what you have.' "

This Christmas, the couple would be grateful for a gift card for the kids to buy clothes, accessories and other household items.