I know saving this money for my family is my job as a stay at home mom. So why do I feel so uncomfortable about it? I have bought two t-shirts and one jacket from "Once Upon a Child" and I would feel so embarrassed if someone knew they were from a used clothing store. Why do we want to buy our children name brand clothing when all they do is get them dirty.
I feel like I am in competition with fellow moms for having the best stuff, cutest clothes and the most name brands. Why is that a focus on so many parents? I know a few moms that if they knew I would buy used clothing and toys would turn up their nose at me and for what, saving money for my child's future?
Why do I feel guilty about it then? Logically it is so stupid to feel bad or embarrassed because of this. It is not like I can not afford new everything for my kids, it is that I place more importance on paying off my student loan (the only debt we have) and saving for their future. Then why do so many other moms look down on this? Is it because they are jealous? Is it because they are trying to fill a void in their own lives through their children? Is it because they just don't understand what is more important?
I am not sure which is right or if it is something else all together. But I am not going to let someones issues affect my goals for my children. So yes I will buy used and save the difference so my child can go on vacations, get a car when they turn 16 and go to college without a huge student loan balance.
I encourage all of my fellow mommies to do the same, pay off your debt, cut up your credit cards and save money for your families future.
Yes, I think it's wise to sometimes buy used and save the difference. However, I don't have any issues with mom's who like to purchase brand new things for their child. My body has only allowed me to give birth to one child, so all my attention goes towards her. I think if I had more than one child, I would probably buy used more often. I do purchase used clothes, in fact I turn in clothes that no longer fit my daughter to get credit from a used clothing store. When I buy new clothes or toys for my daughter, I am not in competition with other mom's, I just simply enjoy buying something new for my daughter. My husband and I only have one credit card and the only debt we are accumulating is student loans. I try and think wisely on every purchase but sometimes it's okay to splurge on your kid.
ReplyDeletep.s. I'm not trying to argue and I'm definitely not disagreeing with you, just thought I'd offer a different perspective.
p.s.s. I once told a friend that I bought a super cute dress for Sammy, at a used clothing store and she just stared blankly at me, as if she was in shock, silliness!
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