"Do you want it or do you need it"

We have decided to get out of debt yet again. So with this, it means some changes with spending. Nothing major, and no I will not be cutting cable or anything crazy, just going to be more cautious about the big categories for our family (i.e. restaurants; retail). The other day we went to HEB for a few things, we decided before we went in that we were not getting everything we wanted, just the items we needed. This became a huge item of discussion as we walked the isle, since Alicyn, like every other kid on the planet wants everything she sees. We asked her "do you want it or do you need it?" At first, she wanted everything, but she figured out quickly that in order for the item to be considered she needed to "need" it. We turned her down on many items that night. When we got to the checkout, she was looking in that section right by the checkout and finds gloves that she wants. I ask the question again, for at least the 50th time. "Do you want it or do you need it". She replies "I need it mom, my hands freeze while I am waiting for you to pick up". We didn't get the gloves but I found out yesterday afternoon that this lesson stuck in her head. See below from Alicyn's teacher.

From: Emily_Farque@roundrockisd.org [mailto:Emily_Farque@roundrockisd.org]
Sent: Monday, December 07, 2009 5:26 PM
To: McGovern, Laura; lmcgovern@austin.rr.com
Subject: Alicyn's comment last week
Laura, I forgot to tell you this last week! When I told the class about the field trip, Alicyn had tears in her eyes and said, "I probably can't go." When I asked her why, her reply was this: "Because my mom and dad don't have a lot of money." Now, I realize that this comment was probably meant for some other reason why she couldn't buy something, but of course I wanted to tell you that if there ever is a problem, I hope you feel comfortable enough to let me know so we can work something out! I assured her that if that was the only reason, she would be going with us if I had to pay for it myself! :o) Again, please let me know if a situation like this ever arises, and we can work it out!

When I got this, tears welled up in my eyes. My poor baby thinks we can't afford for her to go to the field trip, and in her eyes, I think she thought that was a "want" not a "need". And how much more sweet could Ms. Farque be, I swear, she is the perfect person for her job in every way. One of my friends made a suggestion, we need to find a way to nominate her for an award. She is an amazing teacher and such genuine person. I just love her. Anyway, I called Ms. Farque and explained the situation, and assured her that the lights are still on at the McGovern house, and that we can afford the $6 field trip, but was very grateful that she offered to help and that she shared this with me. Last night, while Rich was putting Jaxon down, I pulled Alicyn aside and explained that we have enough money, but that we are going to be more cautious about what we chose to spend it on. I assured her that she would NEVER have to miss a field trip or school event because of money. She said "good, does that mean I can have some money for the book fair?" lol.