If you were to ask me what I wanted for a gift, it would be hard for me to give you an answer. The thing is, I feel like I have everything I need and almost everything I want. And, I really only want the things I need. Materialism is not something that sits well with me. I grew up wanting for nothing and I do my best to provide the same for my daughter, despite the financial hardships that come with divorce.

My daughter is five and she is at the height of wanting something every time we go out in public. She was so geared up for Christmas and focused on the things she would be given. As soon as Christmas was over, she immediately began pestering me about her upcoming birthday and the toys she wanted to be given for that celebration. I am trying to curb her materialism, refocusing her back onto the wonderful books and toys we already have in the house.

Of course, it is hard when we go to someone else’s house and they have cool toys and gadgets that I cannot justify having in our home. We spend the afternoon recently at a friend’s house. We watched movies on their projection system, which made it feel almost like seeing a movie in a theater. And, they own a home theater popcorn machine. Can you even imagine how cool that was? I felt positively spoiled! But, I cannot afford that kind of entertainment setup at home just now. Certainly, I’ll accept invitations to their house as often as they will have us.

I love luxury items, just as much as the next person. But, I have the things I need and like having money in the bank even better.