Let’s see, I remember a time, when most of what I purchased was about me or me and DH. Even 3 years ago, I would be invited to Longaberger parties and Pampered Chef or Party Lite parties. I would go, have fun with my friends and buy stuff for me. Every season, I would go shopping for new clothes for me. I mean, I really needed new clothes – my closet was maxed to capacity, but I still needed them. :)

Well, having kids changes that. Now, a splurge is buying them each a little something – an outfit, a new toy, a new book. Last night I went to my first Usborne Book party. I’d never heard of Usborne books before. Well, ok, I have, but I didn’t know it. I found out when I saw the books that Kayla has one – and it’s one of my favorites – who knew? So I go to this party with the idea that I’ll buy something for my girls and get some Christmas shopping done. Well, when I saw all these great, adorable, educational, wonderful books – I knew I was in trouble. And those were just the ones they had on display.

I decided then, that I needed to host my own party. Especially since we plan on giving mostly books this Christmas – my girls have an adequate number of toys. They don’t need much more on that front.

So, where 3 years ago, I would have to hold myself back from going crazy buying things for myself – now it’s buying things for my girls. I had to get rid of most of my young hip clothes that I’ll never fit into again. Partially b/c they’ll never be worn, partly b/c I had to make room in my closet for DH’s things when we lost our 3rd and final bedroom to Alysa. Now, I find myself having to buy new clothes b/c I literally don’t have anything – and I am buying the bear minimum.

Now, my excitement goes to what I can get my girls. I can’t wait to have my Usborne Book party so I can do the bulk of their Christmas shopping. They have so much I want to get them. I did a good job controlling myself last night – but that was mainly motivated by me wanting to wait for my party. Now, we just have to see how well I do controlling myself at my party…