Frugal Franny

I am a heavy consumer of children's goods. Really, it is my sole monetary indulgence. I have never bought a purse, I rarely wear anything but slippers on my feet, in all aspects save this, I am a frugal franny. But, they got me when it comes to the kids. Absolutely and entirely.

When we lived in Kalihi, in a 1-bedroom apartment for FREE, our home looked like a very small toy store. Now that we live in a home (with a room to spare!) and a wonderful mortgage, our home looks like an even bigger toy store.

Somehow, I experience no guilt whatsoever or budgetary restraints when it comes to toys and books. I love them and I like to think of myself as a choosy shopper... However, you could slap on the label educational and I'll happily pay double. You probably won't find video games, a TV, Barbie, or G.I. Joes at this house any time soon. Yes, it is because I am one of "those" moms who have a sneaking suspicion that they model Barbies after Waikiki's "ladies of the night." And my son already loves shooting everything in sight with his blaster or battling with his light saber. I am fine without any more ammunition in the house!

I do give my children the mental freedom in having my permission to pierce his ears (my six year old son), paint on the walls (there's drawing paper on it), and play with more of those blasted tiny legos and Star Wars figurines than he could muster. As for my daughter, could she tell me how to get to Sesame Street? Why, yes!! It is conveniently located at the cross-section of our living room and bathroom and bedroom. From her toys, to her books, to her undies, to her potty... Elmo is everywhere. His ubiquitous character watches over us, much like Mother Mary does in most civilized Portuguese homes.

I suppose it is all in my efforts in assuring that the content of my children's character is something that they can be proud of. Now that's a label for a toy if I ever heard one.