Here is something I will never understand: Mall, department store and boutique pricing. I just don't see why these places jack up their prices for items one can get for a fraction of the cost elsewhere. Is it really all about labels? When will we our society ever learn? The name on the tag of your shirt, the signature design on the butt of your jeans and the word etched across the side of your sneakers means absolutely nothing to anyone except for you. Nobody thinks you're cool. I have a hard time believing anyone buys expensive clothing just to feel good. I truly feel people do it so others will notice. I've heard from a source I will not name that the quality of the clothing is better. I'm sorry, but that is just a load of crap.... Shoes will fall apart, shirts will fade and/or rip, jeans will wear out (no pun intended), fake metal jewelry will tarnish and electronics will eventually need to be replaced. Just because someone pays $150 for something I refuse to pay more than, let's say, $30 for doesn't mean it will last any longer! I have also heard from the aforementioned source that I only feel this way because I can't afford to shop solely in the mall, so it makes me feel better to bash those who do. First off, I don't bash anyone. I would never tell someone they're wrong or insult them for their choices. I simply disagree with being overcharged for items I know I can get cheaper somewhere else. Second, even if I could afford to shop exclusively at the mall, department stores and boutiques, I still wouldn't. I am frugal by nature, and pride myself in stretching a dollar until it screams. I believe in getting the best bang for my buck every time.
This brings me to the second part of my post: Why are children's clothes so expensive? I realize we all have our own opinions of what is reasonable and what is not when it comes to prices. This being said, I have a huge problem with places charging more for children's clothing than I pay for my own. Kids grow out of their clothing so quickly, and many are rough on their clothing, so why pay top dollar for something they'll only be able to wear for a few months? Doesn't it make more sense to shop at cheaper places and get more for your money? Kids don't care about the labels on their clothing, so I truly feel parents buy name brand and boutique clothing for their kids for their own gratification. I have 3 young children, and I'm not ashamed to say their wardrobes consist almost entirely of clothing purchased from Wal Mart, a second hand store called Kid to Kid, Costco and Target. My oldest has more clothes than anyone in our household because she has a cousin who graciously provides great hand-me-down items. Does this make me a bad mom? I don't think so. I want my children to grow up focusing on who people are inside and not what they're wearing on the outside. I would hate for my children to feel bad about themselves or bad for others due to their clothing.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Friday, April 13, 2012
The Hunger Games
I have read quite a few reviews of The Hunger Games movie, and all were written by people who are appalled, disgusted or otherwise against the box office smash. I am not going to go off on what people have said because I feel everyone is entitled to their opinions. I am, however, going to write about what I think.
My husband and I went to see The Hunger Games in the theater yesterday afternoon. I read the books a while ago, and was excited to hear about the movie adaptation. Although I could have written a post or left comments on blogs/articles pertaining to the subject because I have read the books, I felt it would be better to wait until I saw the movie for myself.
Things I Liked:
1. The main character, Katniss. What a fantastic heroin! She sacrificed herself to save her sister from possible death. If that's not love, what is? She refused to kill the other tributes until it was absolutely necessary. She killed one boy to save the sweet girl, Rue, who had helped her out and soon became a friend. She shot Kato in the hand with an arrow so he would release her District 12 comrade, and in what I consider to be an act of mercy, fataly wounded him with another arrow to end the excrutiating pain caused by the creatures devouring him.
2. The blatant difference between the inhabitants of the districts and the citizens of The Capitol. Not only were the people in the districts simple, hardworking men and women, they had a deep concern for each other. The citizens of The Capitol were selfish, lavish creatures who showed no empathy for the children being sent to their deaths. These major differences made it very easy to dislike and even hate the self absorbed people and love and support their humble counterparts.
3. The empathy shown by the mentor to the tributes of District 12. He had been in their shoes before, and although he did not try to stop what was happening (I'm sure he knew he couldn't,) he did what he felt he could do to help Katniss during the game.
4. The determination of the contestants. It just astonishes me how quickly our instincts take over when we feel threatened. These children had to make the best of the situation they were in, and I felt some of them did a great job at holding on to their humanity.
5. The love shown between Katniss and Rue. These two girls didn't know each other from anyone, yet they bonded so quickly and passionately.
Things I Did Not Like:
1. The game itself. Nothing makes me feel more disgusted than the thought of a government using human sacrifice as a way to control the citizens of a country. It's just barbaric and wrong.
2. The non chalant attitudes of The Capitol's citizens, the representative of District 12, the show host, The President and the show's producer. Twelve districts sacrificed two of their children to kill each other for sport, and yet, nobody seemed to be disgusted by it.... Hmmm...
3. The way some of the contestants found it amusing to kill their opponents. This just made my stomach hurt.
4. The length of time in which The Hunger Games were a part of the society. Seventy four years and no uprising... This bothered me.
5. The violence. I'm not a fan of violent movies. I prefer to watch chick flicks and comedies.
I am very confused by something, and wish someone would explain it to me.... There was such an uproar concerning this movie. People criticized it, expressed their strong opposition toward it, insulted those who have chosen to see it and made it very clear that they will not go see the movie or read the books. I am not saying these people or their passionate opinions are wrong. Everyone has the right to decide what to expose themselves to. I am confused by one thing, though: Why this particular movie? Is it because the violence is between children? Is it because the movie is set in the United States? Is it fear that has driven people to be so opposed? There is violence to some degree in nearly every form of media be it film, television or literature, but never have I seen such a large outpouring of negativity towards anything until this movie came out. I just wonder why....? I have never read anything written by someone wanting to boycot action movies like Mission Impossible due to violent content. I have never read anything boycotting horror flicks like Saw due to disturbing content. Why now? Why this particular movie?
My husband and I went to see The Hunger Games in the theater yesterday afternoon. I read the books a while ago, and was excited to hear about the movie adaptation. Although I could have written a post or left comments on blogs/articles pertaining to the subject because I have read the books, I felt it would be better to wait until I saw the movie for myself.
Things I Liked:
1. The main character, Katniss. What a fantastic heroin! She sacrificed herself to save her sister from possible death. If that's not love, what is? She refused to kill the other tributes until it was absolutely necessary. She killed one boy to save the sweet girl, Rue, who had helped her out and soon became a friend. She shot Kato in the hand with an arrow so he would release her District 12 comrade, and in what I consider to be an act of mercy, fataly wounded him with another arrow to end the excrutiating pain caused by the creatures devouring him.
2. The blatant difference between the inhabitants of the districts and the citizens of The Capitol. Not only were the people in the districts simple, hardworking men and women, they had a deep concern for each other. The citizens of The Capitol were selfish, lavish creatures who showed no empathy for the children being sent to their deaths. These major differences made it very easy to dislike and even hate the self absorbed people and love and support their humble counterparts.
3. The empathy shown by the mentor to the tributes of District 12. He had been in their shoes before, and although he did not try to stop what was happening (I'm sure he knew he couldn't,) he did what he felt he could do to help Katniss during the game.
4. The determination of the contestants. It just astonishes me how quickly our instincts take over when we feel threatened. These children had to make the best of the situation they were in, and I felt some of them did a great job at holding on to their humanity.
5. The love shown between Katniss and Rue. These two girls didn't know each other from anyone, yet they bonded so quickly and passionately.
Things I Did Not Like:
1. The game itself. Nothing makes me feel more disgusted than the thought of a government using human sacrifice as a way to control the citizens of a country. It's just barbaric and wrong.
2. The non chalant attitudes of The Capitol's citizens, the representative of District 12, the show host, The President and the show's producer. Twelve districts sacrificed two of their children to kill each other for sport, and yet, nobody seemed to be disgusted by it.... Hmmm...
3. The way some of the contestants found it amusing to kill their opponents. This just made my stomach hurt.
4. The length of time in which The Hunger Games were a part of the society. Seventy four years and no uprising... This bothered me.
5. The violence. I'm not a fan of violent movies. I prefer to watch chick flicks and comedies.
I am very confused by something, and wish someone would explain it to me.... There was such an uproar concerning this movie. People criticized it, expressed their strong opposition toward it, insulted those who have chosen to see it and made it very clear that they will not go see the movie or read the books. I am not saying these people or their passionate opinions are wrong. Everyone has the right to decide what to expose themselves to. I am confused by one thing, though: Why this particular movie? Is it because the violence is between children? Is it because the movie is set in the United States? Is it fear that has driven people to be so opposed? There is violence to some degree in nearly every form of media be it film, television or literature, but never have I seen such a large outpouring of negativity towards anything until this movie came out. I just wonder why....? I have never read anything written by someone wanting to boycot action movies like Mission Impossible due to violent content. I have never read anything boycotting horror flicks like Saw due to disturbing content. Why now? Why this particular movie?
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Disgusted
Everytime we go to the store, my daughter wants to take a detour over to the toy aisles, and everytime we do so, I become more and more disgusted by one collection of toys in particular: Monster High dolls and playsets. These dolls are said to be the spawn of some of the most terrifying creatures in our culture. The mummy, Dracula, Werewolf, Frankenstein.... To me, this is just sickening and feels very wrong. I feel children, especially young children, should be afraid of these creatures (or not exposed to them in the first place.) I do not feel we should be glorifying them so children become desensitized. I also feel these toys are just a gateway to more disgusting, revolting and more inappropriate toys to come... What's next? Are they going to start creating the spawns of serial killers? "Excuse me, Miss, you wouldn't happen to have any of the Ted Bundy daughters or Jack the Ripper sons in stock, do you?" NO THANKS! Bratz dolls bother me quite a bit as well. They are, excuse my strong word, slutty. Can anyone explain to me why these dolls cannot wear more appropriate clothing? Personally, I feel a woman's body is to be properly covered, not exposed for everyone to see. Dolls like these just encourage our young girls to wear shorter shorts and skirts as well as tops that show off their midsections or chests, and I have a problem with this. I would never tell anyone else what to think or what to buy for their children, but for me and my kids, we'll stick to other toys, thanks!
Friday, March 16, 2012
Trends
I decided it was time to express my other side. Now, before I scare you, let me clarify... There is more to me than just being a mother and wife (although those aspects of my identity are the most important to me.) I have thoughts and opinions about many things and would like to make them more public (mainly so my hubs doesn't have to listen to me ramble on about things he really doesn't care about.) Here goes...
LATEST TRENDS I JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND
1. Leggings and flip flops at church: I like both of these clothing items, and even think they look good together, but not at church. I think it is completely disrespectful to show up to church wearing an outfit that looks like it should've been worn on another day. If you are a convert or investigator, you get a pass. Showing up in the first place is more important than what you wear. Born and raised in the LDS faith and wearing flip flops and leggings? Shame shame..... Show some respect and wear a real shoe and buy skirts/dresses of appropriate length so you don't have to compensate with pants.
2. Walking while texting/gaming/IMing/Surfing the WWW: What in the world are people thinking? Honestly.... This activity is just as dangerous as fartin' around on your phone while driving. You're going to be hit by a car or run over by a bus. You're going to walk into a parked car. You're going to trip over a child or small dog (or big dog.) You're going to smash your face when you walk into a glass window or door. You're going to get a head injury when you walk into a concrete or metal pole. You're going to be smacked by someone opening a door or have your feet run over by a shopping cart. You're going to be yelled at (by me) when you refuse to move up in the check out line at Wal Mart and I'm behind you with my restless children. Please put your phone in your pocket and wait until you're stationary and not in anyone's way to pull it out or don't be surprised when I bust a gut laughing because you walked into a pole...
3. Groups of people sitting around a table using their phones: Whatever happened to organic human interaction? Simply being in someone's presence seems to be enough (or too much) for everyone now. People are too busy checking their emails and texting everyone and tweeting to pay attention to the person sitting 2 feet in front of them. I just think it's sad. Why not save each other the trouble and just say "I'll text u" and don't bother getting together...
4. Kids and electronics: Could someone please explain to me why anyone under the age of, let's say 12 has access to smart phones and tablets? I see children playing with their parents' phones in grocery stores and restaurants, and I suppose it's okay if it's keeping them quiet, but what about the ones who have their own or refuse to find entertainment elsewhere? What about books, toys, or imagination? Yes, I have a few child friendly apps on my ipod, but they are hardly ever used because I want my kids to find other things to occupy their time.
5. The "bumpit" hairstyles: I don't find these hairdos attractive.I have tried. but just can't. I honestly think they look creepy. I wonder what would happen if I went up behind a woman who has a gravity defying 'do and touched it. Would it deflate? Suck me in? Would I stick to it because there's more hairspray holding it in place than there rightfully should be? Would a small animal crawl out or would I have access to the woman's wallet and car keys?
6. Emo/Scene/Whatever: I really don't get why kids these days claim to be so different and original and unique when they look exactly the same. They all wear the tight jeans, black band t-shirts, raccoon makeup and sneakers and then claim they are one of a kind. Is there a machine pumping these kids out and turning them loose because I swear, they're everywhere! Yes, you are so original, now go join the 55869786850338709874521 other kids who look just like you....
7. Brightly colored jeans: No, no, no, no! There are only a few select people who can pull this off, yet most of the time, I see girls who really shouldn't be wearing fushia jeans rockin' them at the grocery store. I'm a big girl with big legs and an equally huge rear end, so naturally, I wouldn't be caught dead in tangerine skinny jeans. I have a problem with neon pants regardless who decides to buy and wear them, but the fuller figured girls need to just walk away (or run) when they see them on the rack. This goes for animal print as well. I realize LMFAO has glorified the animal print pants thing with their very popular song, but here's a tip: Just say no!
8. Furry boots: I can't bring myself to think footwear covered in what appears to be Chewy's fur adorable. In fact, these boots actually scare me a little when I look at them. I think they might start growling or flash some teeth. I'm also 99% sure they smell awful when wet just like a dog.
9. Aforementioned boots paired with shorts or skirts and a puffy coat: This makes no sense to me at all. Wearing a coat and warm shoes does not negate the fact that your legs are bare and most likely frozen. I'm sorry, but I think you just look out of place. Put on a pair of pants or lose the jacket and boots all together and opt for a tank top and flip flops so the rest of your body can freeze right along with your legs and maybe next time you'll remember to get dressed before you leave the house.
10. Shortening words and adding weird endings: Words like "totally" and "whatever" should be reserved only for teenagers, and even then, they're weird to me. Shortening them and adding weird endings turning them into "totes" and "whatev" make everything worse. Not to mention, you sound dumb when you say them.
LATEST TRENDS I JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND
1. Leggings and flip flops at church: I like both of these clothing items, and even think they look good together, but not at church. I think it is completely disrespectful to show up to church wearing an outfit that looks like it should've been worn on another day. If you are a convert or investigator, you get a pass. Showing up in the first place is more important than what you wear. Born and raised in the LDS faith and wearing flip flops and leggings? Shame shame..... Show some respect and wear a real shoe and buy skirts/dresses of appropriate length so you don't have to compensate with pants.
2. Walking while texting/gaming/IMing/Surfing the WWW: What in the world are people thinking? Honestly.... This activity is just as dangerous as fartin' around on your phone while driving. You're going to be hit by a car or run over by a bus. You're going to walk into a parked car. You're going to trip over a child or small dog (or big dog.) You're going to smash your face when you walk into a glass window or door. You're going to get a head injury when you walk into a concrete or metal pole. You're going to be smacked by someone opening a door or have your feet run over by a shopping cart. You're going to be yelled at (by me) when you refuse to move up in the check out line at Wal Mart and I'm behind you with my restless children. Please put your phone in your pocket and wait until you're stationary and not in anyone's way to pull it out or don't be surprised when I bust a gut laughing because you walked into a pole...
3. Groups of people sitting around a table using their phones: Whatever happened to organic human interaction? Simply being in someone's presence seems to be enough (or too much) for everyone now. People are too busy checking their emails and texting everyone and tweeting to pay attention to the person sitting 2 feet in front of them. I just think it's sad. Why not save each other the trouble and just say "I'll text u" and don't bother getting together...
4. Kids and electronics: Could someone please explain to me why anyone under the age of, let's say 12 has access to smart phones and tablets? I see children playing with their parents' phones in grocery stores and restaurants, and I suppose it's okay if it's keeping them quiet, but what about the ones who have their own or refuse to find entertainment elsewhere? What about books, toys, or imagination? Yes, I have a few child friendly apps on my ipod, but they are hardly ever used because I want my kids to find other things to occupy their time.
5. The "bumpit" hairstyles: I don't find these hairdos attractive.I have tried. but just can't. I honestly think they look creepy. I wonder what would happen if I went up behind a woman who has a gravity defying 'do and touched it. Would it deflate? Suck me in? Would I stick to it because there's more hairspray holding it in place than there rightfully should be? Would a small animal crawl out or would I have access to the woman's wallet and car keys?
6. Emo/Scene/Whatever: I really don't get why kids these days claim to be so different and original and unique when they look exactly the same. They all wear the tight jeans, black band t-shirts, raccoon makeup and sneakers and then claim they are one of a kind. Is there a machine pumping these kids out and turning them loose because I swear, they're everywhere! Yes, you are so original, now go join the 55869786850338709874521 other kids who look just like you....
7. Brightly colored jeans: No, no, no, no! There are only a few select people who can pull this off, yet most of the time, I see girls who really shouldn't be wearing fushia jeans rockin' them at the grocery store. I'm a big girl with big legs and an equally huge rear end, so naturally, I wouldn't be caught dead in tangerine skinny jeans. I have a problem with neon pants regardless who decides to buy and wear them, but the fuller figured girls need to just walk away (or run) when they see them on the rack. This goes for animal print as well. I realize LMFAO has glorified the animal print pants thing with their very popular song, but here's a tip: Just say no!
8. Furry boots: I can't bring myself to think footwear covered in what appears to be Chewy's fur adorable. In fact, these boots actually scare me a little when I look at them. I think they might start growling or flash some teeth. I'm also 99% sure they smell awful when wet just like a dog.
9. Aforementioned boots paired with shorts or skirts and a puffy coat: This makes no sense to me at all. Wearing a coat and warm shoes does not negate the fact that your legs are bare and most likely frozen. I'm sorry, but I think you just look out of place. Put on a pair of pants or lose the jacket and boots all together and opt for a tank top and flip flops so the rest of your body can freeze right along with your legs and maybe next time you'll remember to get dressed before you leave the house.
10. Shortening words and adding weird endings: Words like "totally" and "whatever" should be reserved only for teenagers, and even then, they're weird to me. Shortening them and adding weird endings turning them into "totes" and "whatev" make everything worse. Not to mention, you sound dumb when you say them.
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