Yesterday parker, eliza and i set off to outfit the kids for summer. On the drive in to victoria i was struck by the fact that my kids have really changed since we left the city – at least tristan and toby have. Parker and eliza were just babies when we moved – a few weeks old and two.
In the next month tristan, toby and eliza will turn nine, seven and five. I am constantly in awe of how time passes; the years fly by while the days, sometimes, drag on.
I have made a very conscious effort over the past two years to change my kids into non-consumers. To enjoy life and all that it offers without succumbing to the constant barrage of commercialism. It is easier to do that here. When we are bored we learn to be bored, or relaxed, without wandering over to a mall for entertainment. We go shopping when we need to instead of when we have the desire to. Tristan and toby have stopped asking for things. If they want something they save up for it or put it onto a birthday or christmas wish list. Even then they know to expect just a few things.
Although i often have the desire to lavish them with goodies (it has taken longer to change my habits – old dog, new tricks) i have noticed with some smug satisfaction that it is not them asking me for things, it's me asking me. I'm the one with the desire to see them wearing cute outfits from gap or gymboree. They are happy, happier, to wear hand-me-downs from special friends.
And when i come home with a bag full of new t-shirts, shorts and swimsuits they are filled with joy as they march around the house modeling their new wares. They appreciate every single thing.
my little anti-consumers
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It IS so much easier when you live in a rural, or less consumer-oriented environment. And even if they do become more concerned with superficial stuff in middle school (hard to avoid), they’ll remember their roots eventually and by the end of high school, you’ll really see the fruits of your labors. Sweet post.
I totally agree with Marian. I love the part you added about Gap, I’m the same way. LOL My daughter loves wearing hand me downs from her cousins too and has no problem with it which makes me happy! I hope you catch that mouse soon!
Tuvalu, as you may have guessed, is very commercial – people are very concerned with cars and homes and things.
This weighs heavily on Oldest who wants not to care – but my other two seem not worry about what others have – but it’s a tough road, and you are lucky to not have to travel it.
Actually, what I mean to say is – you are SMART to have shown them the right road.
This was a great post, Jess.
happy mother’s day, jess.
i love what you’re teaching your kids…
Happy Mothers Day, Jess. It makes me so happy that people like you with warm hearts and creative minds are raising the next generation of citizens.
Good for you for raising non-consumers or at least light consumers. Our society places so much emphasis on buying stuff people think stuff will make you happy. Kids are taught this at a young age and then they are constantly wanting instead of enjoying. I’m like you. My kids don’t ask for much (and we don’t get them too much) but, I want to get them stuff and I have sto stop myself or stowe it away for Christmas.