Priorities

We all know life is about priorities. How you spend your money is a huge indicator of your priorities. Show me your check book-and I'll show you what you value. I found it interesting visiting with a friend this week. He and his wife are expecting a baby soon and he was telling me how offended he was that someone gave him some hand me down clothes. He said he threw them in the garbage. Okay first-totally not a green thing to do! If you don't want them give them to a charity. I asked him if the clothes were in bad condition and he said no, he just coudn't stand the idea of his child wearing someone else's clothes.
Now what I find interesting about this conversation was what a clear message he was giving me about what he values. He also was telling me that right now he is laid off from work because the economy is so slow and I know his wife works for minimum wage. They rent a home, have 2 car payments and I would bet some other debt. Now tell me, what do you think will be more important to that child in the long run? A college saving account? Mom and dad having a fully funded retirement plan so she doesn't have to support them when they are old? Having her parents own a home some day that is fully paid for? Or wearing only new clothes?
We have been so blessed-about 90% of our kids clothes are either borrowed or bought
2nd hand. And you know what? I don't think most people would know that. Their clothes are clean and look new for the most part. By buying 2nd hand you can save a fortune. I'm so excited garage sale season has started up again. Last year I didn't go out but since both kids are now walking we have been back at it. You can find some great bargains.
This week stop and think about what your priorities are in your financial life and then make your money reflect that.